Living in a community association means working together to maintain a safe, respectful, and well‑kept neighborhood. Knowing what issues to report to your association (and which should be handled elsewhere) helps ensure concerns are resolved quickly and appropriately. This guide walks you through common scenarios and the best way to address them.

Issues to Report to the Association

Noise Complaints

Excessive or disruptive noise (especially during designated quiet hours) should be reported to your association.

Example: A neighbor is playing loud music audible from across the street at 2 AM.

Important: If the noise violates city or county ordinances, local code enforcement or law enforcement may also need to be contacted.

Unapproved Architectural Changes

Most communities require approval before exterior changes are made to ensure a consistent appearance and compliance with governing documents.

Example: A neighbor begins repainting their home bright pink without prior approval.

Unapproved changes may also violate local building or zoning codes.

Violations of Community Rules

Behavior that conflicts with your association’s rules and regulations should be reported so it can be addressed consistently and fairly.

Example: A neighbor operates a woodworking business out of their garage, causing excessive noise, sawdust, traffic, and safety concerns.

Parking Concerns

Associations often regulate parking, including:

  • Guest parking limitations
  • Prohibited vehicle types
  • Length of time vehicles can remain parked

Example: A vehicle has been parked on the same street spot for several weeks without moving, blocking traffic flow.

Important: If your community has public streets, parking enforcement may fall under the city or county’s authority. If you’re unsure whether the streets are public or private, contact our team and we’ll help direct you appropriately.

Issues Not Typically Handled by the Association

Law Enforcement Matters

Criminal activity or emergencies should never be directed to your association.

Examples:

  • Theft or vandalism
  • Suspicious behavior
  • Assault or threats

How to Resolve

Call law enforcement.

If there is a life‑threatening emergency, call 911 immediately.

Once you’re safe, you may notify your association as an FYI.

Personal Disputes Between Neighbors

Your association does not have authority over personal disagreements that do not violate community rules.

Example: A neighbor’s dog occasionally barks during the day but does not exceed allowed noise levels.

How to Resolve

  • Speak directly with the neighbor when safe to do so.
  • Consider mediation.
  • If the situation feels unsafe, contact local authorities.

Animal Control Issues

Loose pets or wildlife concerns are handled by local animal control, not your association.

Example: You see an unattended dog without a collar roaming around the neighborhood.

How to Resolve

Contact your local Animal Control Department.

You may notify your association afterward as an FYI.

Municipal Services

Services such as trash collection, water outages, road repairs, and utility issues are usually handled by city, county, or utility providers, unless explicitly provided by your association.

Typically, if you pay a separate bill for the utility outside of your community association fees, then it is not provided by your association.

Example: Garbage was not picked up, and trash service is billed separately from HOA dues.

How to Resolve

Contact the appropriate local government agency or utility provider.

Maintenance of Your Own Property

Typically, property owners are responsible for maintenance such as:

  • Lawn care
  • Flower beds
  • Exterior cleaning or painting

Multi‑family communities (townhomes, condos) may be exceptions.

Example: Your front flower bed needs weeding, and yard care is not included in association services.

How to Resolve

Complete the maintenance yourself.

If exterior maintenance is covered, submit a work order request.

How to Report an Issue

Property Owners

The quickest way to report an issue is through the Report an Issue form in your property owner web portal.

This form auto‑fills key information, helping speed up the process.

Tenants and Non-Association Members

If you are leasing or are not an association member:

  • Use the contact form on this website
  • Or notify the property owner, who can report the issue on your behalf

FAQ: Reporting Issues in Your Community

When should I report an issue to my association?

Report issues that involve rule enforcement, community standards, parking, or unapproved exterior changes.

Should I report emergencies to the HOA?

No. Emergencies and criminal activity should always be reported to law enforcement first.

Can I report an issue anonymously?

Anonymous reports are sometimes accepted, but they may limit how effectively the issue can be addressed. Providing details helps resolution.

Will my neighbor know I reported them?

Your association handles all reports professionally and discreetly. Your identity is not shared unless required.

What if I’m unsure where an issue belongs?

That’s okay! Submit the concern to us. We’ll help determine whether it’s an association, city, or county matter.

Can tenants submit reports directly?

Tenants may submit general concerns, but owners retain responsibility for compliance and official communication with the association.