Boards Behaving Badly: When Leadership Fails

Good boards can keep a community running smoothly and protect property values. Poor boards — or outright abusive ones — can make life miserable.

Examples aren’t hard to find: a board that refuses to share financial records; one that selectively fines certain owners while ignoring others; or a clique that uses intimidation tactics to silence dissent.

In severe cases, power struggles turn into legal battles that drain the community’s finances. Many homeowners underestimate how difficult it is to vote out entrenched board members, especially if there’s low participation at meetings.

Signs of Trouble

• Financial statements and minutes are impossible to get — or always “delayed.”

• Rules seem to change overnight with no notice.

• Complaints about the board’s conduct go unresolved or result in retaliation.

What Residents Can Do

• Document everything — emails, notices, and board communications.

• Organize with like-minded neighbors to request fair elections.

• Know your state’s laws for forcing document access or removing a board member.