Overview of Collections Process

Every condominium and homeowners association depends on timely payment of assessments. Those funds are used to purchase association insurance, manage the association, take care of landscaping, and maintain property. When an owner doesn’t pay their assessments, all other owners must make up for that delinquency.

Community Association Law Group helps associations collect delinquent assessments in a unique way. First, any attorney fees or collection costs are billed directly to the delinquent owner.

Second, the initial attorney fees are minimal. Collection firms which immediately charge $500 to the debtor in attempting to collect a $100 debt greatly reduce the chances of a quick resolution. That’s why Community Association Law Group keeps the initial attorney fees and costs at a minimum.

Lastly, board members or managers are given access to an online portal to view the real-time status of every collection account with their association.

What attorney fees will be charged to the delinquent owner?

1. Initial setup (title search, bankruptcy search)

2. Lien filing

3. 30 day demand letter

4. 10 day demand letter

5. Lawsuit

6. Payment Plan Setup

6. Release of Lien

7. Additional correspondence, phone calls, etc. – attorney or staff normal hourly rate

Typical Collections Timeline

Owner Becomes Delinquent

Association Turns Account Over To Community Association Law Group

Using online form to submit owner information, amount of debt, and upload any relevant documents. The sooner the better.  Effective debt collection requires quick action.

Lien Filed Against Property

Lien is recorded in county records.

30 Day Demand Letter Sent to Owner

10 Day Demand Letter Sent to Owner

Lawsuit Filed Against Owner

Owner May Respond to Lawsuit

If owner does not respond to lawsuit, a “default judgment” will be awarded to the association.

Begin Collection Efforts

Including debtor exam (to ascertain assets, bank accounts, and income sources), bank and wage garnishment, and taking possession of vehicles or other property to satisfy the debt.

Account Closed

Once the debt has been satisfied, the account will be closed and the lien is released.