A mismatched HOA fee dispute in North Carolina has left homeowners confused about charges tied to amenities they never used. Residents say they received large bills for facilities located far from their community. The issue has now prompted broader discussions about fair billing practices and housing rights.
Mismatched HOA Fee Dispute in North Carolina
Residents in The Bluffs at Stonebridge say they received debt notices for amenities located more than a mile from their homes. They explained that the bills came from Braesael Management, even though their HOA does not control those facilities. Homeowners in the Mineral Springs area said the charges totaled hundreds of dollars for a private pool, tennis courts, and a clubhouse.
How the Problem Started
The issue began when one couple moved into their home last December and later received a notice demanding more than $1,000. They said the notice claimed they failed to pay an initiation fee and monthly charges for amenities they never accessed. They added that no one involved in the sale mentioned any mandatory payments tied to those facilities.
What the Notice Claimed
The notice warned that nonpayment could lead to attorney fees and court costs. Residents said they were never given keys to the amenities and had never received any previous bills. They also learned that their HOA does not own the facilities in question. The owner is True Homes, a builder in the community. One homeowner said he has been dealing with similar charges since 2020.
Conflicting Explanations
Residents said Braesael Management claimed the HOA covenants allow the company to collect the fees. They were warned that refusing to pay could lead to a lien. The Stonebridge HOA disagreed and told residents the notices did not come from the HOA or its official management company.
True Homes confirmed that the fees only apply to people who actually use the facilities. Company leadership admitted that some collection letters were sent by mistake and said they are working to correct the issue. They promised more transparent communication moving forward and personally apologized to affected homeowners.
Growing HOA Oversight Across the Country
Lawmakers in several states are working to create limits on HOA authority. Minnesota introduced a bill requiring HOAs to publish a clear schedule of fines and fees. Arizona proposed new rules for how HOA boards approve expenses.
Florida passed legislation reducing HOA control over tenant property. Lawmakers in Atlanta introduced bipartisan measures to curb aggressive HOA actions and protect residents.
