Let’s be honest, there is no way to avoid conflict entirely. Which means at some point your HOA will deal with some sort of disagreement. There are many types of conflict, and just as many dos and don’ts for how to manage them.
Here are some ways your board can handle a situation, should it arise:
- Manage. The best way to manage conflict is to prevent unnecessary conflict. That starts by running all meetings and making rulings according to HOA governing documents. Even if someone doesn’t like a decision, or the way something is done, your board can point to specific rules and sections of governing documents right away. By managing conflict in a preventive way, you eliminate issues before they really start.
- Defuse. Sometimes, no matter how reasonable the board feels a decision was, conflict will arise. Don’t dismiss people’s concern or objections just because your board followed the rules. Show people respect and hear them out. Show them you care by listening, and if they make valid points consider how your board can do a better job. Through listening, being respectful, and not dismissing people, you’ll defuse conflict before it gets out of hand.
- Resolve. Sometimes a board makes a choice that, while in keeping with CC&Rs, causes legitimate concern from residents. When something happens during a meeting, it is important to know when and how to make compromises without becoming pushovers. If the board feels the concern warrants a review of the decision and even the governing documents, let the residents know you’re taking their concern under advisement and reviewing the decision.
Most conflict is the result of misunderstandings or a sense of being dismissed. By making sure your board is making good decisions, showing residents the respect of listening, and compromising when appropriate, you’ll find conflict is easily managed and rarely a real problem.
For additional HOA Management questions, contact Spectrum Association Management today!
