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HOA Violation Letter for a Dirty Exterior: What to Do in Bradenton, FL
A notice about algae on your roof, a stained driveway or a dirty exterior usually names a condition and a deadline. Here’s how to read it, what to do first, and how the current Manatee County water-shortage order affects it.
Last updated: October 24, 2026
Your next steps
What to do when the letter arrives
Read the notice
Note the exact condition, the surface, and the deadline it names.
Check your documents
Your governing documents set the cure period, any fines and how to appeal.
Photograph the condition
Take dated photos of each surface before you do anything.
Ask what standard applies
Ask your manager or board in writing what result they expect.
Fix it or ask for a pause
Clean the surface, or ask whether enforcement is on hold. Keep a record either way.
What it usually means
The conditions associations cite most
Letters typically cite “appearance” or “maintenance” standards in the community’s covenants. In Bradenton the usual triggers are black streaks on roofs, algae on driveways and walkways, mildew on stucco and soffits, mildew in pool cages, and weedy or faded pavers.
Most of these are surface growth that cleaning removes. The method matters, because pressure that’s too high can damage tile, paint and screens. See soft wash vs pressure washing.
Common conditions
Typical fixes
| Condition cited | Typical fix | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Black streaks on the roof | Roof cleaning | Soft wash |
| Dark algae on the driveway | Driveway cleaning | Surface cleaner |
| Green film on walls and soffits | House washing | Soft wash |
| Mildew in the pool cage | Cage and deck cleaning | Low pressure |
| Weeds and faded pavers | Cleaning, joint sand, sealing | Surface cleaner |
The water order
How the water-shortage order affects HOA notices
The Southwest Florida Water Management District’s Modified Phase III order says no HOA or similar entity may enforce standards that require increased water use, including pressure washing, for as long as the shortage lasts. The order runs through March 31, 2027.
Safety problems, such as slick algae on walkways, and cleaning before painting or sealing remain allowed maintenance.
Not legal advice
Ask how your association applies it
This is general information. Ask your board or manager whether enforcement is paused, and check your governing documents for your rights and deadlines.
FAQ
HOA notice questions
Can my HOA fine me for a dirty driveway right now?
Under the current order, associations may not enforce requirements that increase water use, including pressure washing for appearance. Ask your manager how the association is applying it.
How long do I have to fix it?
Your governing documents and the notice set the deadline. Don’t rely on a general rule.
What record should I keep?
Dated photos before and after, the notice, and the invoice or record of the work.
Who do I talk to first?
Your community manager or board. Ask in writing what standard they expect.
Sources: SWFWMD water-shortage order and guidance.
Keep reading
Keep reading: HOA cleaning and next steps
Most notices involve roof stains, driveway algae or dirty siding. See HOA and condo pressure washing for how we document the work.
Related: why roofs streak, soft wash vs pressure washing and cleaning schedules. Planning around water rules? Read the Manatee County water restrictions and compare prices. Communities such as Lakewood Ranch are covered in our service areas.
Free written quote
Got a notice? Send us a photo
Send your address and a few photos. We’ll reply with a written quote that lists each surface, the method and the price, and tell you if any water rules affect your job.
- A written quote, not a pushy sales call
- Method matched to every surface
- Water-order check before we book