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Nuisances: More Than Just Irritating

Published on Feb 08, 2021

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PRESENTATION OUTLINE

Nuisances:  More Than Just Irritating

Sara Sayles | Ball Janik LLP
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What is a nuisance under OR law?

“A substantial and unreasonable interference with the use and enjoyment of the property of another.”

What is a nuisance under the governing documents?

“No noxious of offensive activity shall be carried on upon any lot, nor shall anything be done, grown or placed upon any lot which interferes with or jeopardizes the enjoyment of any lot within the Association.

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HOA Nuisance Examples

  • Noise
  • Smoking
  • Smells
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What to Do When a Nuisance is Reported

  • Review governing documents
  • Investigate
  • Analyze

Board Obligations

  • Board members are fiduciaries
  • Statutory requirements
  • Responsibilities
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Limitations on Board Authority

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Enforcement Options

  • Notice
  • Fine
  • Lawsuit
  • Other remedies

Notices: Increasing the pressure

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Fine Notices

  • No statutory requirements other than notice must be provided
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Imposition of Fines

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Lawsuits: Who can bring a nuisance claim?

  • Association
  • Owner
  • 3rd Party - Neighbor of City/County

Lawsuits: Burden of Proof

Lawsuits: Type of Actions

  • Injunction/equitable relief
  • Money damages
  • Collections - liens and judgments

Other Remedies: Governing Documents

  • Termination of Utilities
  • Termination of Facility Services
  • Termination of access to common areas
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Other Remedies: Self Help

Other Remedies: Government

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The Paper Trail

If you did not write it down, it did not happen
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Be a Good Neighbor

Questions?