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What's the deal with hOA Says No But State Law Says Yes??

Started by case_dismissed_69 · Nov 13, 2025 · 8 replies
For informational purposes only. This is not legal advice.
AV
case_dismissed_69OP

Looking for advice on this situation. Building an ADU in California - HOA Says No But State Law Says Yes? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Details: I'm in a situation where I need to understand my legal options. Has anyone dealt with something similar?

O2
send_help_please_31

Tenant rights vary enormously by state and even by city. What's legal in Houston might be a crime in San Francisco. Always check your local tenant protection ordinance, not just state law.

TL
case_dismissed_69_15Attorney

Get everything in writing with your landlord. Verbal agreements about repairs, rent reductions, or policy changes are unenforceable in practice even when they're technically legal.

PA
ComplianceOfficer_10

Tenant rights vary enormously by state and even by city. What's legal in Houston might be a crime in San Francisco. Always check your local tenant protection ordinance, not just state law.

DE
eric_the_eric_3Attorney

Fwiw get everything in writing with your landlord. Verbal agreements about repairs, rent reductions, or policy changes are unenforceable in practice even when they're technically legal.

SP
ImmigrationAttyMJ_32

Tenant rights vary enormously by state and even by city. What's legal in Houston might be a crime in San Francisco. Always check your local tenant protection ordinance, not just state law.

AV
case_dismissed_69OP

Update: Thanks everyone for teh guidance. I consulted with an attorney and we're moving forward. The advice here helped me understand what questions to ask and what to expect. Will update when there's a resolution.

CA
ctrl_alt_defeat_6

Built an ADU in my San Francisco backyard using the state ADU streamlining laws (AB-1033, AB-976). The permit process was surprisingly smooth — the city can't impose lot coverage restrictions or setback requirements beyond what state law allows. Total cost was about $185K for a 500 sq ft unit with full kitchen and bathroom. I'm renting it for $2,800/month, which covers the HELOC payment and then some. For anyone in California considering this: the state laws have made it much easier than it used to be.

EJD
frank_the_tank_4 Business Owner

Important data point: I tracked how long it took from my initial complaint to resolution. Through customer service: 4 months of runaround. Through a formal demand letter: 3 weeks. Through a CFPB complaint: 10 days. Don't waste time with customer service — go straight to formal channels.