I submitted a request to renovate my garage, and the HOA approved it, but with a catch. They said I HAVE to use their preferred contractor. I already have someone lined up who’s cheaper and does great work. Can they really force me to use their guy?
HOAs sometimes have preferred vendors for certain projects, but unless your governing documents specifically require you to use their contractor, they can’t force you. Ask them to show you where in the CC&Rs it says you have to comply.
This sounds shady. Some HOAs get kickbacks from vendors, so I’d definitely push back. Like chrstphr58 said, ask them to cite the rule. If it’s not in the docs, they can’t make you do it.
In my community, exterior renovations have to be done by pre-approved vendors, but interior work is up to the homeowner. Check your rules. If they’re overstepping, get other homeowners involved.
My HOA tried the same thing. I got legal advice and pushed back. Turns out, they had no authority to enforce it. Don’t just take their word for it. Make them prove it in writing.