A TEXAS homeowner whose fence was blown down by a hurricane has to pay a massive fee to replace it after her HOA of 20 years abruptly abandoned her.
Pauletta Aldridge’s HOA has replaced several fences over the decades, but when she needed help this summer, all she got was excuses.
Pauletta Aldridge’s HOA refused to repair her fence after it was torn down by a hurricaneCredit: KHOU
For the past 20 years, the Houston, Texas, HOA has paid for the repairs because it divides her property with a public parkCredit: KHOU
However, the board abruptly decided it would no longer fund the replacementCredit: KHOU
Since Aldridge moved into her Houston home, she’s lived through massive hurricanes like Ike and Harvey.
Both storms left the gates surrounding her property broken and battered, but she always knew her HOA would be there to help.
This is because one of her gates divides her lawn with a public park that the neighborhood shares, so everyone benefits from the repairs.
Aldridge said all it took was 72 hours for the fence to be completely replaced.
In July, Hurricane Beryl blew through Texas and once again destroyed her gates.
Aldridge contacted her HOA for help with the repairs and was shocked when they threw the request back in her face.
“They told me that they no longer want to have that expense,” she told CBS affiliate KHOU in September.
“It’s your responsibility. We don’t want it. We won’t maintain it any longer.”
Now, Aldridge has been stuck with a massive fee and is furious over the lack of warning.
HOAs collect fees from homeowners so they can fund neighborhood projects.
However, the board decides the specific upkeep that the HOA funds, and the agreements can abruptly change.
Aldridge has another fence that borders her neighbor’s property, and the two are creating a plan to repair it.
For now, she’s still challenging the HOA to try and repair the fence one last time because of its lack of warning.
“Just upsets me for them to say that’s not my fence, that’s your fence now,” she said.
“But it hasn’t been my fence.”
MORE HOA NEWS
Dealing with a disagreement with an HOA can be challenging, but it’s important to approach the situation calmly and methodically.
Anyone who wishes to change a rule can request it from the board and hold a meeting to present their case.
You can also organize with neighbors to rally against the board and elect new members who better represent your interests.
If all else fails, you may need to consult with a lawyer who specializes in HOA or property matters.
They can provide legal advice and help you understand your rights and options.
The HOA drama comes after a man got a weird email from his board after he had a quiet 𝐛𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐡day party.