One of the few ways that Homeowners Associations consistently lose is discrimination against the disabled or handicapped. Still, in HOA Amerika it’s all about intentionally violating the law because the disabled generally don’t have the money to fight. Occasionally HUD will move in and assess massive fines against an Association. But even that hasn’t made much difference.
The story linked below is about an elderly Florida woman, Claribel Ruiz, who has crippling anxiety and depression. Her doctor advised her to get a companion animal, a Chihuahua which has become a life saver for her.
“Not so fast!” said the Chancellor Hall Condo Association. “Dogs aren’t allowed. We don’t give a flying fig about the American Disabilities Act. Get rid of your dog or we’ll do it for you!”
Claribel’s dog is a registered therapy dog and she even gave her HOA the doctor’s prescription for a therapy dog. The HOA’s attorney then demanded that Claribel surrender all of her medical records to the Association. She refused and finally told the Association that she would give up her dog.
“Great!” said the Association. “That’ll work, but only as long as you pay all of our legal fees!”
As this blogger sits here reading this poor lady’s story, three things stand out: The woman is single, she’s elderly, and her last name is spelled ‘Ruiz’. That’s three strikes, right there!
Where’s HUD help when someone really needs it?
Shame on Chancellor Hall Condo Association.
Here’s a solution to this problem: When a board pursues something like this therapy dog issue in violation of a FEDERAL LAW then all legal fees for both the HOA and the homeowner shall be divided equally and must be paid within ten days by each board member involved in the violation. That should fix “stupid” rather quickly!
Absolutely marvelous idea!
Yes!!! There has to be some sort of penalty for Board Members who throw their weight around without any repercussions. They is great incentive to stop abuse of homeowners!
Sometimes violence IS the answer….call me…I’ll help you ma’am!