Settlement Reached With MOCO Condo Association, Attorney General

GAITHERSBURG, MD — A Montgomery County condominium association has reached a settlement with the state's attorney general after it was accused of violating the Maryland Condominium Act and the Consumer Protection Act.

The Consumer Protection Agency said that Gaithersburg-based condominium association Brighton West Condominium II penalized unit owners for alleged violations of community rules, but did not follow required procedures such as serving a written note to the owner that describes the violation, instructions for the unit owner, how long they have to get in compliance and end the violation, and give the chance for a hearing.

As part of the settlement, unit owners who were affected will be paid restitution, the attorney general said.

The association also did not provide notice of or hold open meetings and elections, did not submit an annual proposed budget and adopted budget as required, and did not provide a copy their books and records when requested by the unit owners, according to the Maryland Attorney General.

“Condominium associations, including their Boards of Directors, must comply with the requirements of the Maryland Condominium Act,” said Attorney General Brian E. Frosh in an announcement. “Under our settlement with Brighton West, unit owners will be protected, and those who were harmed by alleged violations of the law will receive remediation.”