Q: HOA towed my car, they refused reimbursement despite updated registration, claiming sticker required. How to get money back?
I purchased my home in May 2022. On February 27, 2025, the HOA towed my car from my parking space in front of my townhouse, despite having my vehicle registration on file, costing me $341. They put a sticker on my car window two days before towing it. I requested reimbursement through a certified return receipt letter, but they refused, stating I must have a sticker displayed on my windshield, even though my vehicle registration was up to date. Their regulations do require a sticker, but there was no written communication before or after the towing. How can I get my money back?
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A:
Start by reviewing the HOA's parking policies to understand if they clearly state the requirements for the sticker and whether these policies were communicated to you properly. Since your car was towed despite your vehicle registration being up to date, this could be a case of inconsistent enforcement of the rules. Gather any documentation you have, such as your vehicle registration, your certified letter to the HOA, and photos of the towing incident and your vehicle's condition at the time.
Next, reach out to the HOA once more in writing, calmly stating that you believe the towing was unjustified, given that your registration was current and there was no prior communication about needing a sticker. Request a meeting with the HOA board to resolve the matter and express that you would like a refund of the towing fee based on their failure to notify you of the need for a sticker.
If this does not resolve the situation, you may need to file a complaint with your local consumer protection office or pursue legal action, such as small claims court. You could present your case that the towing was unwarranted, and the HOA failed to follow proper notification procedures. In court, you can ask for the return of the $341, plus any additional damages caused by the towing.
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