Community associations follow governing documents that outline standards for property maintenance, appearance, and overall compliance. These standards are designed to preserve property values and ensure a consistent, well-maintained environment for all residents. One of the tools associations use to support these standards is the courtesy notice.
The Purpose of Courtesy Notices
A courtesy notice is considered the first violation in the enforcement process. It serves as an official reminder that something in the community standards may need attention. While it is a violation notice, its primary purpose is to give the homeowner an opportunity to correct the matter before further action is necessary.
It is the responsibility of both the board of directors and the community association manager to uphold the governing documents. Their role is to apply the standards consistently and fairly, so the entire community benefits from a well-maintained neighborhood.
Different Perspectives
While receiving a notice may feel frustrating, it is important to remember that rules affect all residents. For example, one homeowner may be disappointed to receive a notice about a trash can being left in view, while another homeowner may be equally concerned about having to look at a neighbor’s trash can left outside. Enforcement seeks to balance these perspectives in a way that benefits the community as a whole.
Open Communication
If you receive a courtesy notice, the best step is to contact your community manager with any questions or clarifications. Open communication ensures that any misunderstandings can be resolved quickly and that expectations are clear. On occasion, a notice may be sent to the wrong address or contain an error, but a quick message to the manager is all that is needed to resolve the matter.
The Value of Courtesy Notices
Courtesy notices are part of a process that helps uphold the community’s standards. By addressing issues early, they support property values and contribute to the overall quality of life for everyone in the neighborhood.
When viewed in this way, courtesy notices are less about enforcement and more about maintaining the shared standards that make the community a desirable place to live. They are a tool for collaboration, helping homeowners, managers, and boards work together to protect the value and harmony of the community.
