HOA power relationship, problem-solving, and communication patterns during a major building renovation construction crisis

ABSTRACT

For this study, we explored interpersonal relationship patterns and communication themes noting conflict and problem-solving strategies among both peers and those in differential power roles in a condominium owners’ association when faced with a crisis. The crisis consisted of extensive and costly repairs being required on all buildings due to previous inferior construction and poor maintenance, with the county threatening to condemn the buildings. We discovered that the interaction pattern hypothesized in the reciprocal influence model of social power was consistent with what occurred among members in this COA. Association members at large were able to exert an effective counter-force against the association board’s power. After two years of tension between the board members and association members, the situation finally stabilized under new, more experienced, board leadership.

KEYWORDS:

• Condominium association
• control
• common interest development
• CID
• homeowners’ association
• HOA
• reciprocal influence
• social power

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Michael J. Marshall

Michael J. Marshall, PhD, Professor of Psychology, earned a doctoral degree in social/environmental psychology from Claremont Graduate University. Dr. Marshall teaches applied psychology courses in the psychology program at West Liberty University and is also an active applied psychology researcher and clinical psychologist in private practice.

Shelly Marshall

Shelly Marshall, B.A., is a best-selling author of numerous addiction recovery books. Her contributions include being a Hazelden author, recovery therapist, HOA rights advocate, an international trainer and keynote speaker, a published researcher, and a book publisher.

Deborah Goonan

Deborah Goonan, B.S., is the Administrator of Independent American Communities (IAC), a Housing Consumer Education blog. IAC documents legal, social, and economic challenges in U.S. association-governed common interest communities. Goonan has authored thousands of posts on IAC, providing relevant analysis of real estate news and trends, exposing residential real estate corruption, and tracking important legislation and federal policy affecting housing consumers