Irvine, CA HOA Rules: Dispute Resolution (2026)

The Davis-Stirling Act establishes two main dispute resolution paths for Irvine HOA conflicts. Internal Dispute Resolution (IDR) under CA Civil Code 5900-5910 allows any member to request a meeting with the board to resolve disputes informally. The board must participate if requested. IDR sessions may include a neutral third party if both sides agree. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) under CA Civil Code 5925-5965 requires that before filing most lawsuits between an association and a member, the parties must offer to participate in mediation or arbitration. If a party refuses ADR and later loses in court, it may not recover attorney fees. The prevailing party in enforcement actions is generally entitled to reasonable attorney fees under CA Civil Code 5975. AB 130, effective January 2025, reformed HOA fine and discipline procedures, requiring boards to adopt and follow specific due process steps before imposing penalties on members. Homeowners may also file complaints with the California Department of Real Estate or the Bureau of Real Estate for certain violations. Many Irvine HOA disputes involve architectural modifications, parking, noise between units, and common area maintenance.