Homeowner's Associations, if you live in South Florida, there's a good chance you live in one. You pay them fees to watch over you, but who is watching over them. News 12 found many Associations abusing their power, going after people for petty violations, and cashing in on big fines. In a News 12 Special Report, Nigel Wheeler tells how you can fight back against a problem that's gaining national attention. 

This spa and these flowers cost Phil Castronova 14 thousand dollars. 

A nightmare that began the day the Lake Worth man finished his landscaping 
Phil: It was approved 

Approved but not good enough according to his Home Owners Association who says he built too close to neighbors. 

The HOA demanded he move all of this back 10 feet... After months of back and forth the HOA came up with what it feels is a compromise. 

Phil: They've settled moving back 4 feet 

Moving this will cost the single father thousands more, but if he doesn't the Hoa can continue to bury him with fines. 

Castronova isn't alone. All of these people are fighting their HOA's. Many have all ready lost big. 

I've spent out of my pocket..over 40 thousand dollars 
George Andres is still in a battle over his flag display in Jupiter.. 

Governor Bush even agrees with George 

Governor Bush: over a flag, this is the dumbest thing I have ever heard. 

Others Like this woman feuding about the color of her driveway. 

Barry Silver/Attorney: Peoples lives are being ruined by Petty dictators condo commanders are letting a little power go to their head 

Nigel Wheeler: but homeowners don't have to feel powerless....you can fight back...first read your by-laws, make sure the board isn't singling you out.. rally support from your neighbors to get rid of the board, and finally consult a lawyer before fines over something as simple as a mailbox or flowers get out of control. 

And Gov. Jeb Bush is getting involved...He's set up a task force to look into HOA horrors. (You can click on the link below to see their proposals). Many homeowners say the task force isn't enough, they want to see action. But they say it's a start to exposing corrupt associations and giving homeowners a chance to fight back. 

If you have a story concerning a Homeowners Association please email it to [email protected] or call our Iteam hotline at (561)881-0784. 

If you need help fighting your association or would like more information about laws regarding Homeowners Associations, please click on the links below.

Cyber Citizens For Justice, Inc.
Governor's Task Force
Filing a small claims lawsuit