San Leandro, CA HOA Rules: Dispute Resolution (2026)
Key Facts
- IDR
- Civ 5900, free meet-and-confer
- ADR
- Civ 5925, mediation required
- Pre-Litigation
- Both required
- Exemption
- Small claims, assessments
- Fee Risk
- Denial if skipped
Summary
San Leandro HOAs must offer Internal Dispute Resolution (Civ 5900) and Alternative Dispute Resolution (Civ 5925) before litigation over governing documents.
5900. (a) This article applies to a dispute between an association and a member involving their rights, duties, or liabilities under this act, under the Nonprofit Mutual Benefit Corporation Law (Part 3 (commencing with Section 7110) of Division 2 of Title 1 of the Corporations Code), or under the governing documents of the common interest development or association.
(b) This article supplements, and does not replace, Article 3 (commencing with Section 5925), relating to alternative dispute resolution as a prerequisite to an enforcement action. (Added by Stats. 2012, Ch. 180, Sec. 2. (AB 805) Effective January 1, 2013. Operative January 1, 2014, by Sec. 3 of Ch. 180.)
Full Breakdown
Before filing a lawsuit over enforcement of governing documents, HOAs and members must attempt dispute resolution. Civil Code 5900-5920 requires Internal Dispute Resolution (IDR), a meet-and-confer process available at no cost. Civil Code 5925-5965 requires Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), typically mediation, before civil litigation. Failure to offer or participate in IDR/ADR can result in attorney fee denial. Small claims and assessment collection actions are exempt from the ADR requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sue my HOA without trying mediation?
Does IDR cost anything?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Leandro
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Dispute Resolution in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Alameda County handle dispute resolution.