When someone moves into a community, the last thing they want to hear is having to abide by specific rules, as this may seem restrictive. But for HOA residents, there is a legal requirement to follow all rules and regulations associated with living in an HOA community. And while this may seem like it’s hampering their freedom, especially while living in a house they purchased, there are many benefits to having a comprehensive set of rules and regulations in HOAs.
Common HOA Rules
HOA rules can vary by community, and most HOA Rules and regulations are located in an association’s governing documents. These documents tend to include an HOA’s articles of incorporation, Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs), and bylaws. These documents will help specify rules for a community, including parking enforcement, trash bins, architectural guidelines, and more.
Usually, these documents and rules are crafted at the initial formation of an HOA community by the developer. However, they can be updated over time by the HOA’s board of directors. This association board is also responsible for enforcing the regulations among HOA residents.
What Are the Benefits of Rule Enforcement?
When rules and regulations are enforced consistently and effectively, a number of benefits can be spread throughout a community. They can include preserving the aesthetics of an area, protecting and enhancing the value of homes, maintaining the property of an association and its owners, and enforcing the CC&Rs and bylaws.
How to Encourage HOA Rules & Regulations Compliance
While there are benefits for residents when it comes to following the HOA rules, there are benefits for the HOA as a whole as well. From less-stressed board members to a beautiful community, following the rules can go a long way.
Here are some ways in which boards can encourage rule compliance in their HOA communities:
- Address Issues Head-On: HOA’s should identify current behaviors and consequences of these behaviors if they continue.
- Create a Committee: An HOA committee should be composed of homeowners who aren’t on the board and aren’t connected to current board members. This committee should be brought on to investigate and assist the HOA board with determining the need for rules.
- Be Transparent About Intentions: A board should explain where it derives its authority to govern. This can help residents understand that enforcing rules comes from a genuine passion for helping those in the community live happier lives.
- Ask for Input from Community: An HOA board doesn’t merely vote on a rule and then enforce it. It’s essential to take the time to gather feedback from the community to discuss and debate all input from residents before a rule is created and implemented.
- Keep Communication Open: HOA boards should regularly connect with their residents about new rules in annual notices, newsletters, and online correspondence.
While all these tips won’t necessarily make everyone compliant or limit concerns between residents and boards, they can help guide HOA boards to be more transparent and responsible for their actions and decisions. By being upfront and open, boards can create a stable relationship with those in the community and help to limit potential rifts and liabilities.
About Kevin Davis Insurance Services
For over 35 years, Kevin Davis Insurance Services has built an impressive reputation as a strong wholesale broker offering insurance products for the community association industry. Our president Kevin Davis and his team take pride in offering committed services to the community association market and providing them with unparalleled access to high-quality coverage, competitive premiums, superior markets, and detailed customer service. To learn more about the coverage we offer, contact us toll-free at (855)-790-7393 to speak with one of our representatives.