QUESTION: Does the board have the authority to require a homeowner to repair or replace broken blinds in a living room window facing a common area?

ANSWER: Some CC&Rs have a clear restriction when it comes to window treatments that are visible to the public. Others put guidelines in their Rules & Regulations. It is part of the power of the association through its board or architectural control committee to regulate the architectural integrity of the development. If your CC&Rs don't already have such restrictions, your board should adopt rules similar to the following:

Window Coverings. Appropriate window coverings must be installed on windows at all times. The color of such window coverings shall be in harmony with the exterior of the structure. No window may be covered by paint, aluminum foil, newspapers, bed sheets, cardboard, blankets or other similar items.