K.S. from outside of Connecticut writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
Can the association harass you about your pet and the use of your balcony? Can they shut your water and sewer off!
Mister Condo replies:
K.S., when folks move into community associations governed by a set of rules, they agree to live and behave a certain way. Typically, the problems associated with pets like picking up their waste, limiting their noises, and making sure they do not impose a threat to other residents are outlined in the governing documents. Harassment is not the way to enforce those rules and no resident should be subject to harassment. However, the Board can and should enforce its pet restrictions so as to assure the peaceable enjoyment for all unit owners. I am not aware of any punitive damage that could include shutting off your sewer and water services unless that is allowed in the governing documents and/or state and local laws. Turning off utilities is an extreme measure and is often not allowed by local housing law. I would encourage you to contact an attorney to see if the association has broken any laws by turning off your utilities and or harassing you. Harassment takes on a whole new meaning when you apply legal guidelines to it. An attorney could best advise you there. As for your pet’s behavior, try and be a good neighbor and comply with the pet rules for the association. All the best!