No Good Deed Goes Unpunished

Introduction

Discovering the origin of the aphorism that "No Good Deed Goes Unpunished" is difficult, but understanding its meaning is instantaneous. When doing a good act, do not expect a reward. In fact, the "reward" may be a punishment.

In the case of Sanchez v. Cobblestone Homeowners Ass'n of Clayton, Inc. 2016WL4598554 (September 6, 2016), the defendant Cobblestone HOA (HOA) informed plaintiff that her property was not included in the HOA declaration. Accordingly, she was not required to pay association fees and she was not entitled to use of the amenities owned by the HOA, such as a pool and tennis courts. The HOA offered to incorporate plaintiff's property into the declaration so she could continue to pay dues and have access to the HOA amenities.