His pool was not visible from the street.
It stood behind an enclosed private backyard.
The HOA did not maintain it.
Did not insure it as a common amenity.
Did not pay its operating expenses.
And had no recorded easement granting general access.
He opened the recorded covenants.
Read the relevant sections.
Then checked the property survey and title documents from his purchase.
Nothing supported the president's sweeping claim.
The association could have legitimate authority concerning certain safety matters under applicable laws and governing documents.
But that was not the same as a right to enter a resident's private pool whenever its president wanted.
He contacted the association management office.
Asked for the rule.
Requested the board resolution establishing the inspection procedure.
And specifically asked whether the HOA claimed a recorded access easement.
The management company sent a short response.
The matter has been referred to the HOA president.
The following afternoon, the blonde woman called him.
He answered while sitting in his office.
"Good afternoon."
She did not return the greeting.
"Why are you making this difficult?"
He leaned back.
"I'm asking for documentation."
She sighed.
"The community has safety standards."
"I agree."
"Then give us access."
He paused.
"To my private gate?"
"Yes."
"No."
There was a long silence.
Then her voice sharpened.
"Excuse me?"
He remained calm.
"I won't provide unrestricted access to my backyard without a valid basis."
She laughed bitterly.
"You people always think the rules don't apply to you."
The engineer went still.
For a moment, he wondered exactly what she meant.
Then he answered quietly.
"The same rules should apply to everyone."
She exhaled.
"Don't lecture me."
He looked toward the property survey on his desk.
"Please send the relevant legal authority in writing."
Her voice became colder.
"You're going to regret challenging the HOA."
He took a slow breath.
"Is that a threat?"