Find answers to common questions about HOA and community association management, including assessments, governing documents, maintenance responsibilities, meetings, violations, and other aspects of living in a professionally managed community.
The Board of Directors contracts a management company to support the day-to-day operations of the community. Services may include collecting assessments, coordinating vendors, obtaining bids, preparing financial reports, communicating with homeowners, and advising the Board. The management company works under the direction of the Board, which retains decision-making authority for the Association.
A Homeowner’s Association (HOA) is an organization responsible for maintaining common areas and overseeing the community in accordance with its governing documents. The Association is governed by a Board of Directors and funded by homeowner assessments. Membership is typically automatic for property owners within the community.
Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs) are legal documents that establish the rules and standards for a community. They outline the rights and responsibilities of homeowners and the Association and may address property use, maintenance, architectural standards, and other community requirements.
Bylaws establish how the Association is governed and operated. They outline the duties of the Board of Directors, terms of office, homeowner voting rights, meeting requirements, and other procedures necessary for the administration of the Association.
The Board of Directors is the governing body responsible for overseeing the business and affairs of the Association. Board members are elected by homeowners, or as otherwise provided in the governing documents, and are responsible for making decisions on behalf of the community.
Most associations have Rules and Regulations adopted by the Board that address areas such as parking, vehicles, pets, amenities, and other community standards. Associations may also have Architectural Guidelines requiring approval before certain exterior changes or improvements are made. These standards help maintain the appearance, integrity, and property values of the community.
If a potential violation cannot be resolved directly between neighbors, residents may report the concern to their Association or management team. The matter will be reviewed in accordance with the community’s governing documents and established enforcement procedures. Additional information may be requested as part of the review.
Residents may attend Board meetings in accordance with their Association’s governing documents and applicable requirements. Meeting dates, times, locations, and other details are communicated to residents by their Association or management team.
Residents interested in serving on a committee should contact their Association or management team to learn which committees are currently active and whether volunteer opportunities are available.
An assessment is the amount homeowners pay to support the Association’s operating expenses, maintenance of common areas, and reserve funding for future repairs and replacements. Assessment amounts, due dates, and payment schedules are established by each Association.
Assessment amounts are based on the Association’s annual budget, which accounts for operating expenses, maintenance, utilities, administrative costs, and contributions to reserve funds for future repairs and replacements. The Board of Directors reviews and adjusts the budget as needed to meet the community’s financial obligations.
Assessments may change over time based on the Association’s budget and financial needs. Increases may be necessary to account for rising operating costs, maintenance expenses, major projects, and adequate reserve funding. Any changes are determined in accordance with the Association’s governing documents and applicable requirements.
Timely payment of assessments is essential to funding the Association’s operations and services. Past-due assessments may result in late fees, interest, collection costs, or other collection actions as permitted by the Association’s governing documents and applicable law.
