Owner not responsible for fees

: Last year I closed on a house in Elkhorn. This was bought from HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development), and unfortunately the homeowners association dues weren't paid.

People at the association have told me this is something that I don't owe.

I recall one of your previous articles stating this as well.

I have received two quarterly bills and each has contained late fees, intent-to-lien fees and balances owed at least a year before I bought the house.

I have paid a few dollars more than my current HOA dues. They have been paid on time for both quarters. Although I have talked to the association six or seven times, they have not changed its billing. -- R.A.

A: If HUD was the owner of the property for any period of time prior to your purchase, HUD would be responsible for the assessments.

State law allows an association to only collect the last six months of delinquent assessments from the buyer.

If you had purchased the home directly from the delinquent homeowner, you would be required to pay six months of the delinquent assessments. (NRS116.3116.1c)

You need to review your disclosure statements from the association.

Contact the people who were involved with when purchasing the property.

You may have to file a formal complaint with the state's ombudsman office if they do not reverse the charges as your association appears not to be following the law.

Barbara Holland, certified property manager, is president and owner of H&L Realty and Management Co. To ask her a question, e-mail support@hlrealty.com.