QUESTION: An owner requested over 4,000 documents which we provided. Does she have the right to share those records with others??
ANSWER: It depends on who the "others" are and for what purpose. Since all members have the right to inspect records, there is nothing improper about members sharing records with other members.
Improper Purpose. Where your homeowner can get herself into trouble is if she uses those records for an improper purpose such as (i) using them for personal gain, (ii) altering the records to defame others, (iii) selling them, or (iv) using them for any other purpose not reasonably related to her interest as a member.
Damages. If an owner uses records for an improper purpose, the association can take legal action against him and is entitled to reasonable attorneys' fees and costs if it prevails. (
Civ. Code § 5230.)
ASSISTANCE: Associations needing legal assistance can
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