Maryland HOA complaints: Everything you need to know

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and regulations frequently change and may be subject to local variations. For guidance on your Maryland HOA, consult qualified legal counsel and your property management partner.
 

What are Maryland HOA complaints?

In Maryland, a homeowners association (HOA) complaint typically means any written or formal concern raised by a homeowner regarding community rules, property upkeep, fees, or resident-to-resident disagreements.

Here are a few examples of common HOA complaints in Maryland:

• Noise Complaints: Whether from late-night parties, dog barking, or loud home renovations, noise is a recurring issue. In some cases, boards create guidelines (like “quiet hours”) to minimize disturbances.
   
• Maintenance and repairs: Concerns about the landscaping or upkeep of shared amenities like swimming pools, fitness facilities, or common walkways.
   
• Parking Complaints: Complaints about residents parking in prohibited spots, blocking driveways, or storing recreational vehicles in visible areas are common in many HOAs.
   
• Neighbor Disputes: Boundary disputes, disagreements over shared spaces, or personal frictions can develop into formal HOA complaints if they involve community rules or cause significant disruptions.

Maryland boards should have established processes in their governing documents for reviewing and responding to HOA complaints. Understanding your association guidelines can help homeowners and boards address concerns more effectively.

In Maryland, HOAs are often governed by laws like the Maryland Homeowners Association Act, which provide legal frameworks for community governance, dispute resolution, and the rights of homeowners. Some older or special-purpose communities might follow unique rules that differ from current statutes. HOA board members and homeowners in Maryland should consult qualified legal counsel and work closely with their property management partner before creating, modifying, or enforcing any rules or penalties.
 

How to file an HOA complaint about neighbor disputes in Maryland

If you have concerns about a neighbor — such as noise, pets, or an improperly parked vehicle — it might help to start with a respectful conversation. Politely expressing your point of view and hearing theirs may clear up misunderstandings. For instance, they could be unaware their activity is disruptive or affecting a shared area. If direct communication doesn’t resolve the issue, here are a few steps you can consider following to file a complaint with your HOA board:

1. Review your Maryland HOA’s governing documents

   Start by reviewing your association’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs), bylaws, or any official rules and guidelines. These documents often outline how complaints should be submitted, the information you must provide, and any associated timelines.
    

2. Document the issue

   Gather relevant details like dates, times, and any supporting evidence. If there is a visible problem like an unapproved fence or landscaping issue, consider taking photos, but be careful to avoid violating privacy laws or HOA rules in the process. Keeping records can help your board or property manager evaluate the issue.
    

3. Submit the HOA complaint

   Follow your Maryland HOA’s guidelines for delivering the complaint. Many associations have guidelines on how to submit HOA complaints some may offer an online portal, while others prefer a letter or email. In your complaint, include the specific rule or community standard that may apply. If your HOA works with FirstService Residential, board members can create a dedicated portal through FirstService Residential Connect™ to help expedite the process.
    

4. Follow up as needed

   Once you’ve submitted your HOA complaint, keep a record of it and note any response. The board or property manager may ask for additional clarifications or schedule a time to review. The board might bring both parties together or simply evaluate the details to see if any community rule applies. Boards usually review HOA complaints on a set schedule, so expect some time to pass before you receive an official response, especially if your HOA’s membership is large or if board meetings are only convened periodically.

Can you file a complaint against your HOA?

Yes, you can file a complaint against your HOA in Maryland if you believe the association is not fulfilling its duties, enforcing rules fairly, or addressing concerns in a timely manner. HOAs will typically outline the steps for raising a question or expressing a concern about the board itself in their bylaws or CC&Rs. Because board members are often volunteers with full-time jobs outside of their HOA responsibilities, issues can sometimes arise despite their best efforts. Approaching the conversation with a collaborative mindset can encourage constructive discussions and help boards take meaningful steps toward updating or clarifying community rules to address complaints.
 

How are Maryland HOA complaints addressed?

Every board has its own process for evaluating HOA complaints, often facilitated by a board subcommittee or by the professional management team. The group typically reviews the facts and determines if any action is needed under community guidelines.
The board may choose to:

• Send a reminder or notice to a homeowner if the complaint involves a specific violation.
   
• Clarify a misunderstanding among residents about association rules.
   
• Arrange a meeting with relevant parties to discuss a workable compromise.

If a violation is confirmed, penalties might be imposed if the HOA’s governing documents allow it. Consequences could include written warnings, fines, or in some cases, restrictions on community privileges. Homeowners should review their HOA’s governing documents to understand potential penalties and their rights in the appeal process.

In many Maryland HOAs, day-to-day operations and administrative tasks (including complaint tracking) are handled by a professional property management company like FirstService Residential. The property manager may be your primary contact for submitting concerns, following up on their status, or clarifying association rules.

FirstService Residential has decades of experience supporting Maryland HOAs. Our team stays informed about updates to local regulations to help boards navigate compliance and apply best practices when responding to homeowner concerns. Through FirstService Residential Connect™, our secure digital platform, homeowners can contact their property manager and board members, download association documents, and submit requests for maintenance or architectural modifications. We have also provided webinars, workshops, town halls, and other resources to help board members and homeowners in Maryland understand their rights and responsibilities and provide updates on their community. For more information, contact a member of our team today.