Conflict over HOA Rules and Regulations

[CA_Condo-owner]

What is the name of your state? CA
I purchased my condo in late 1989. The complex has recently changed its management company and I received a notification from the new management company that I must remove the mauve colored blinds from my windows and replace them with either white or cream-colored ones. In the notification letter, they quoted a section from the Rules and Regulations handbook dated June 2004. Since the colored blinds came with the condo unit when I purchased it back in 1989 and I had never been informed of this requirement until last month, I requested that my unit be grandfathered. The management company has since notified me that the Board of Directors has denied my request and that I needed to replace the blinds before their next property inspection date. I then contacted that management company and asked if the Board would be willing to pay to have the blinds replaced and was told no. I would appreciate any advice on how to proceed with this situation. I am planning on appearing before the Board at their next scheduled meeting but would like to know what my options are before doing so.

[IndianaOwner]

I know it seems like a pain, but think of it this way, the new management company is getting on top of things...that is good news when it comes time to sell. The price increase that will result from this "picky" management will more than make up for the cost of new blinds.

And the short answer is, probably yes, they can require that the exterior view of window coverings be a neutral color.

[Shel77]

Your options are to either spend the money replacing your 17 year old blinds, or pay fines issued by the BOD for non-compliance then pay to replace your blinds. Personally any reason to get rid of mauve blinds works for me.

[Jane K]

CA has amended law to include HOAs in the statute of limitations. Five years. If the first management company and board didn't do anything about the mauve blinds, the new company can't do anything now; the association has lost it's right to enforce.
CCP §336(b)