What is a Homeowners Association (HOA)?
An HOA is a legal entity created to manage and maintain the communal areas and enforce the rules of a residential community or development. Membership is usually mandatory for all property owners within the area governed by the HOA.
What does the Board of Directors do?
The Board of Directors is an elected group responsible for governing the HOA’s affairs. Their duties include setting and enforcing community rules, managing the HOA’s finances, and maintaining communal properties.
Why am I required to pay Association Fees?
Association fees are essential for operating and maintaining the community’s common areas and amenities, such as landscaping, pools, and clubhouses. They also contribute to the community’s reserves for future repairs and improvements.
What do Association Fees cover?
Association fees typically cover the following:
- Maintenance and repair of common areas and amenities.
- Utilities for common areas.
- Insurance for common properties.
- Reserve funds for future repairs and replacements.
How can I pay my Association Fees?
You can usually pay your association fees by check, credit card, or direct bank transfer. Some associations also offer online payment options for added convenience.
What is the role of the Association?
The Association manages the community’s common areas, enforces the rules and bylaws, and manages the community’s finances. It aims to preserve the neighborhood’s aesthetics and property values.
What are the Governing Documents?
The Governing Documents for an HOA typically include the following:
- Bylaws detailing the association’s operational procedures.
- Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) outline the community’s rules and guidelines for property use.
- Articles of Incorporation, establishing the association’s legal status.
How can I access the Governing Documents?
You can request a copy from the HOA directly. These documents are often available on the HOA’s website or from the local county records office.
What is a deed restriction?
Deed restrictions are rules included in the CC&Rs that restrict homeowners’ actions to maintain the community’s appearance and property values.
Why do I need to get approval for home improvements?
Approval is required to ensure that all changes meet the community’s aesthetic standards and comply with the CC&Rs, maintaining uniformity and potentially enhancing property values.
Why do I need to get approval for home improvements?
The Association’s insurance typically covers damage and liability for communal properties and areas, not individual homes or personal property.
What is a “Master Association”?
In a larger community with multiple HOAs, a Master Association may oversee broader aspects of community governance, providing services and enforcing rules across multiple subdivisions or developments.
