Sometimes associations face difficult issues involving residents who are mentally unstable. If family members are unable or unwilling to protect the membership from an unstable relative, associations can call law enforcement. If appropriate, authorities will place the person in a 72-hour psychiatric hold as provided for in Welfare & Institutions Code §5150.

County Agencies. Counties and cities sometimes have agencies that will provide limited assistance. In some instances, associations may need to seek court orders involving the person.

RECOMMENDATION: When faced with an unstable resident who represents a threat against the safety of persons or property, boards should immediately seek legal counsel about how best to address the situation.