HB837

Establishes an ombudsman's office for homeowner associations to resolve disputes.

This bill establishes an ombudsman's office for homeowner associations within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs. The office will handle disputes between homeowners and associations, provide election monitoring, and offer education and resources. The ombudsman will have powers to investigate, mediate, and arbitrate disputes. The office will be funded by fees and assessments, and the ombudsman will be appointed by the director. The bill also outlines procedures for dispute resolution, including mediation and arbitration, and sets rules for document access and fees.