Denver HOA Accuses Former Manager of Stealing $55K and Leaving the Group Penniless

May 13, 2026 - 19:56

A Denver homeowners association has taken legal action against its former manager, alleging he drained the group's finances. The lawsuit, filed in Denver District Court, accuses Brett Hardt of stealing more than $55,000 from the HOA over a period of several months. According to court documents, Hardt served as the property manager for the association, which oversees a residential community in the city. The HOA claims that Hardt used his position to access the organization's bank accounts and made unauthorized transfers and withdrawals, leaving the association with virtually no funds to cover operating expenses.

The lawsuit details a series of transactions that began in late 2023 and continued into early 2024. The HOA says it discovered the missing money when vendors started complaining about unpaid bills and the group's bank balance dropped to near zero. An internal review allegedly revealed that Hardt had written checks to himself, made cash withdrawals, and used the HOA's debit card for personal purchases. The total amount stolen is listed as $55,237. The association is now struggling to pay for basic services like landscaping, snow removal, and maintenance.

Hardt has not yet filed a response in court. The HOA is seeking the return of the stolen funds plus damages and legal fees. The case highlights ongoing concerns about financial oversight in community associations, where a single manager can sometimes have unchecked access to accounts. No criminal charges have been announced, but the civil lawsuit could lead to further investigation by authorities. The HOA's board says it has since tightened its financial controls and hired a new management company.