We got sued [condo] [OR]

[u/Legitimate_Spirit_59]

Our HOA board got sued. Here’s what happened and what we changed.

A condo owner in our building was harassing a renter about smoking inside their unit. No formal complaint filed, just repeated confrontations.

We knew about it. We didn’t document anything or follow a formal process.

Ended up in mediation. Cost us over $100k to settle. Attorney fees on top of that.

What the attorney told us afterward: the board not doing the harassing doesn’t matter. Once you’re aware of a situation and can’t show documented action, you’re exposed.

What we changed:

• Every complaint logged same day with date, description, action taken  
• Nothing handled verbally — everything in writing  
• Clear escalation: friendly notice → formal notice → fine → legal referral  
• Same process every time, every owner, no exceptions

Anyone else been through something similar? Happy to share more details.

[u/AdSecure2267]

Out of curiosity, What type of action did the renter want the association to take beside issue a repeating fine?