Homeowners get revenge on HOA that tried to block their hurricane-proof roof: ‘Fine print gets you every time’
In Florida, a homeowner's battle against their HOA over home repairs has gained attention after their victory against restrictive rules. A Redditor shared the story of her parents, who faced a dilemma when their home was damaged by hurricanes, necessitating a roof replacement. The homeowners explored roofing options and decided on a metal roof for its durability and eco-friendly benefits. However, upon checking the HOA rules, they discovered that metal roofs were prohibited. Unconvinced that the 30-year-old rule applied to their modern and appealing choice, they dug deeper into the bylaws, realizing that the prohibition referred to older tin roofs. Seeking clarification, the homeowners contacted the HOA and patiently waited for two months for a reply. With no response, they proceeded with the metal roof installation. In response, the HOA swiftly imposed a staggering $25,000 fine and ordered the removal of the new roof. The Redditor attributed this harsh decision to the HOA's financial woes, prompting them to levy excessive fines on the neighborhood. Undeterred, the homeowners found a law in Florida that forbids HOAs from banning environmentally friendly upgrades. As their chosen metal roof generated heat passively and reduced energy consumption, it qualified under this legislation.