The best way to reduce conflict is consistency and uniformity in enforcement of the associations restrictions.
Community Association Institute (CAI) recommends these nine ways to reduce conflict in associations:
1. Enforce the restrictions and rules and regulations;
2. Don’t play favorites
3. Avoid foolish decisions
4. Provide due process before imposing a fine
5. Stop unofficial enforcement
6. Exercise good governance
7. Ensure Owners feel heard
8. Take neighbor disputes seriously
9. Govern with empathy.
While seemingly simple, board members are human and often make mistakes in these areas. In this case, going back to the basics can help a board correct those mistakes.