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Compliance Process

July 11, 2025

There have been a lot of comments lately about compliance issues with HOA rules. I’d like to let you know what the process is, so you can be aware of why things don’t get resolved instantly. Texas Property Law determines how we proceed with these issues. Here’s the process: Click Full Story for more information.

There have been a lot of comments lately about compliance issues with HOA rules. I’d like to let you know what the process is, so you can be aware of why things don’t get resolved instantly. Texas Property Law determines how we proceed with these issues. Here’s the process:

1. When a violation occurs, the homeowner receives a letter detailing this issue along with a picture and which of the CC&Rs has been violated (btw, we all received a copy of the CC&Rs when we closed on our house). The letter tells the homeowner they have 10 days to fix the issue.

2. If not fixed in 10 days, another letter is sent giving an additional 10 days.

3. If still not fixed, another letter is sent informing the homeowner they will be subject to a fine if the situation is still not cured.

4. The fourth letter will contain a fine. The fine will increase and escalate until the situation is resolved. In extreme situations, the HOA may contract to get it fixed and bill the homeowner (Self Help).

5. Violations remain open for 180 days per escalation and can be escalated at any point in the 180-day time frame if not closed. To close a violation, an email will need to be sent to Compliance@essexhoa.com with cured photos that will be reviewed by the compliance team to make sure they meet association standards. A violation can be reopened if the last escalation was within the 180-day period and considered egregious enough.

6. The association can exercise its right to Self-Help lots if the violation is egregious or considered a health and/safety hazard at any point in the escalation process after a 1st notice. Any actions related to self-help will be charged to a homeowner's account and are non-refundable, non-waiver able.

7. 1st Notices are sent via 1st class mail. All other notices and fines (other than Self Helps, which are posted directly to the door) are duplicated and sent both 1st class and certified mail. All notices and fines must be sent through the postal service.

As you can see, this could be a potentially long process, but we must adhere to the law.

We all spent a lot of money to buy these houses, and we should all want the neighborhood to be nice with a pleasing appearance – which helps all our property values. I hope this helps explain the process and brings some clarity. If you have any questions, you can reach out to Essex, our management company at (972) 428-2030 and or/compliance@essexhoa.com. You can also reach me at jaltsman@sbcglobal.net and I will do my best to help. If clarification or extensions are needed, please reach out to the compliancedepartment. They can explain the violations in depth, provide the inspection photos, and provide extensions (within reason and on a case-by-case basis).

Lakepointe at Lavon HOA

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