What are my property rights as a homeowner?

May 01, 2008

By Shelly Jackson

The Woodholm Green Homeowners Association board of directors is now demanding I remove my fence that's been on my property for 14 years. I purchased the home 7 years ago.

I was never told or notified before March 2008 to remove the fence or that there was a pending issue about removal of the fence. I was never notified to attend a board meeting or that my fence was the subject of numerous discussions and meeting agendas from other homeowners and the association. I have now received my first letter from the board and their attorneys to remove the fence. They have given me till May 10th 2008 to do this.

What are my rights in this situation? I feel I should have been notified to attend the meetings where my fence was the topic of discussion.

The previous owners built the fence on the property line 14 years ago and was never told to remove it. The fence is over the my property line and has been for 14 years. I would like to consult an attorney because as a member of the association I should have been a part of the meetings affecting my property and the decision that was made.

I have a four year old daughter who plays in the yard. Repositioning this fence will cost me monies I don't have.

The Board of Directors have also charged me $500 to have a surveyor come out to the house to survey the property. I was never given a copy of this survey and don't feel I should be responsible for paying this. I was never notified by the board that this survey was even going to take place or give me the option of having my own survey conducted.

Please give me any suggestions or answers to help me resolve this matter.

Thank you!