Who regulates HOAs in Colorado?
In Colorado, HOA's (or Common Interest Communities) are governed by the Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act (“CCIOA”). This law defines the rights of unit owners, as well as those bestowed upon the association. It also defines the responsibility of an association, as directed by its Executive Board. The Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act provides for the enforcement of those rights and responsibilities through civil litigation. Unfortunately, the State has no authority to intervene in any association member's conflict with their association, nor does it have any jurisdiction to enforce the rights and responsibilities defined in the Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act. Succinctly speaking, there is no regulatory oversight of HOAs or Community Association Managers in the State of Colorado. Any dispute between homeowners or homeowners and an HOA is considered a civil matter. The Colorado Judicial Branch's Office of Dispute Resolution offers affordable access to qualified mediators and has several professionals that specialize in issues related to Common Interest Communities. Assuming your HOA is willing, engaging in alternative dispute resolution can oftentimes eliminate the need for litigation.