From Fines to Foreclosure: The Covenant
Enforcement Process Explained
By Doreen Tejeda, CMCA®, AMS® Associa Northern California
Whether you're a board member leading a community or a homeowner
who agreed to a set of covenants at closing, understanding the enforcement
process is essential to a well-functioning association. While the steps vary
based on your covenants and state laws, this infographic explains what you
can generally expect when faced with a violation.
Note: If the violation is resolved and fines paid at any step, the process stops.
*Depending on nature of violation, state law and governing document language
Violation called in or noticed during
an inspection
Send violations notice
Optional second
warning issued
Homeowner notified of non-
compliance hearing. Hearing
is conducted whether or not
homeowner attends.
Homeowner notified of board
decision, immediate consequences
and conditions for continued non-
compliance. Examples include
confirmation of a resolution plan,
fines assessed, loss of access to
amenities.
Homeowner notified of lien*
if non-compliance and failure
to pay fines continues
Homeowner notified of foreclosure action*
if non-compliance and failure to pay fines continues