A homeowners association (HOA) is a non-profit organization that manages and regulates a residential community, typically a condominium, townhome, or planned unit development (PUD). The fundamental objective of a homeowners association (HOA) is to uphold and improve the value, attractiveness, and overall quality of life of the community under its jurisdiction.
HOAs are created by the developer when a new community is built, and membership is mandatory for all homeowners within the community. A homeowner-elected board of directors manages the HOA and is responsible for making decisions on behalf of the community. Typically, the HOA board consists of homeowner volunteers from the community.
Functions of an HOA
An essential function of the HOA is to manage the common areas within the community, such as parks, pools, and clubhouses. The HOA is responsible for maintaining these areas, ensuring they are safe and clean, and coordinating activities and events for homeowners. This can include landscaping, pool maintenance, and trash removal, among other tasks.
The HOA also liaises between the homeowners and the local government, advocating for the community’s needs and interests. This may include addressing concerns about traffic, public safety, or zoning changes that may impact the community.
Finally, the HOA serves as a mediator for disputes between homeowners. This can include disputes over noise, parking, or other issues that may arise within the community. The HOA board may help mediate these disputes and facilitate an acceptable resolution for all parties involved.
What is the name for HOA rules?
Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) have a set of rules that are designed to govern the appearance and use of the community. These rules are called covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) or HOA rules. Here are some examples of standard rules that an HOA may have:
- Architectural guidelines: HOAs often have policies for the appearance of homes within the community. These guidelines may cover exterior paint colors, roofing materials, landscaping, and other aspects of a home’s appearance.
- Parking rules: HOAs may have regulations regarding where residents can park their vehicles. For example, they may require residents to park in their garages or in designated parking areas.
- Pet policies: HOAs may have rules regarding the types of pets allowed within the community, where pets can be walked, and how they should be kept on a leash.
- Noise restrictions: HOAs may have rules regarding noise levels within the community. These rules may specify quiet hours during which residents must keep noise to a minimum.
- Trash and recycling guidelines: HOAs may have rules regarding trash disposal and recycling within the community. These rules may specify the types of materials that can be recycled and when trash and recycling bins can be placed out for collection.
- Use of common areas: HOAs may have rules regarding using common areas, such as parks, pools, and clubhouses. These rules may specify when the areas can be used, who can use them, and what activities are allowed.
- Home business restrictions: HOAs may have rules regarding home-based businesses within the community. These rules may specify the types of companies allowed and any restrictions on signage or parking.
- Rental Policies: HOAs may have rules regarding the rental of homes within the community. These rules may specify the minimum lease terms, the maximum number of occupants, and any other requirements for renters.
- Maintenance requirements: HOAs may have rules regarding the maintenance of homes within the community. These rules may require residents to maintain their homes in a particular condition. Specific maintenance tasks may be required at certain times specified by the HOA.
- Violation consequences: HOAs may have rules regarding the consequences for violating HOA rules. These consequences may include fines, community service, or other penalties.
To Summarize
The primary purpose of a homeowners’ association is to maintain and enhance the value, appeal, and quality of life within the community it governs. The HOA achieves this by enforcing community rules and regulations, the management of common areas, advocating for the community’s needs and interests, and mediating disputes between homeowners. By fulfilling these roles, the HOA is critical in promoting community and ensuring the neighborhood remains attractive and desirable. You must work with your real estate team to gather the necessary documents relating to the HOA. Sometimes, these documents must be agreed to and signed before closing on a property with an HOA. As always, our agents at Fluid Realty are here to help you if you have any questions.
