Question:
Long-standing and growing problem with outdoor cats being fed regularly by neighbors and leaving their waste in other people’s’ yards. Property management and board of directors are aware of the problem through several emails and pictures (of both cats and waste) from me but have not taken any action.
The community and the county prohibit letting pet cats and dogs roam unrestrained unto other people’s property or the community’s right-of-way. But these are stray cats, and the community has no specific policy on them.
I have suggested to the board several times that they issue a memo putting the community on notice that the cats are a nuisance (waste, damage to cars, curb appeal) and that they will be trapped and removed. In July the board said that they were discussing the matter with the property manager but despite follow-up requests from me in September and this month they have not provided a response.
I know that writing to the state agency that regulates HOAs and property-management companies as well as to politicians that legislate on them is possibly an option for redress. Getting a lawyer is another.
Any suggestion?
Answer:
Hi,
To address the stray cat issue, consider formally requesting a meeting with the HOA to discuss the problem in person, as this may prompt a faster response. Sending a certified letter documenting the issue and lack of action could also create a formal record that encourages the board to act. Make sure to attend board meetings and raise your concerns there, too. This will shed some light on the issue while other homeowners are present.
Additionally, contact local animal control or a humane society, as many provide programs to help manage stray populations. If the HOA remains unresponsive, filing a complaint with your state’s HOA regulatory agency may be effective, as boards are often required to address health and safety concerns. As a last resort, consulting a lawyer or rallying other affected homeowners for a collective request can add further pressure on the board to implement a solution.
Disclaimer: We are not lawyers. The information provided on this website does not constitute legal advice.
