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Building an ADU in California — HOA Says No But State Law Says Yes?

Started by ADU_vs_HOA_CA · Nov 16, 2025 · 9 replies
For informational purposes only. This is not legal advice.
AV
ADU_vs_HOA_CAOP

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?

TL
TommyN_LALawAttorney

As a landlord, the most expensive mistake is not documenting the property condition at move-in. A detailed photo walkthrough with timestamps protects both parties and eliminates most deposit disputes.

O2
oaklanddriver_2019

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.

O2
oaklanddriver_2019

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
TommyN_LALawAttorney

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
PayPalPain

As a landlord, the most expensive mistake is not documenting the property condition at move-in. A detailed photo walkthrough with timestamps protects both parties and eliminates most deposit disputes.

PA
PayPalPain

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
DianaR_EmpLawAttorney

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
shocked_patient_2025

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
ADU_vs_HOA_CAOP

Update: Thanks everyone for the 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.

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