THE LYRICS OF "OUR HOUSE" ILLUSTRATE THE STRUGGLES OF HOME OWNERS ASSOCIATIONS
We represent a lot of Home Owners' Associations, so we paid particular attention when Alice Lahoda recently examined the lyrics of 80's pop hit "Our House" in the context of HOA rules and regulations. It is understandable why the Association was so concerned:
“Our house, in the middle of our street.”
Dear Homeowners: As you may have noticed, our development constructed a new roadway surrounding your home this week. Consequently, your house is currently non-compliant with the neighborhood’s strict “No Road Obstacles” ordinance. You have 14 days to move your house at your own expense.
Fine: $9,050
“Our house, was our castle and our keep.”
It has come to our attention that when you moved your house out of the middle of the street, you rebuilt the structure using limestone blocks reminiscent of a medieval fortress. The HOA permits only brick and vinyl home exteriors. You have 7 days to rebuild your house.
Total fine: $21,750
The violation and fines increase exponentially as the song continues, ending with a lien and foreclosure:
“Our house, something tells you that you’ve got to move away from it.”
This is your final notice regarding the unpaid lien on your house. You have 24 hours to pay the amount in full, or you will be legally evicted.
“Our house.”
Not anymore.
However, we encourage our clients to contact counsel when dealing with a difficult homeowner.
For More: Jeff Stahl and Ed Flowers
Updated: April 7, 2021
