As many as 20% of Americans live in a community that’s regulated by a homeowner’s association. HOAs have plenty of pros and cons. Some of the pros include higher property values and access to amenities, but some of the cons include strict rules and the potential for fines. Unsurprisingly, most people don’t like rules or fines, which can make it difficult for HOAs to enforce their policies. Residents might wonder, why is HOA rule compliance necessary? Read on to find out what to know about HOA rule compliance and enforcement.
Protecting Community Quality
HOAs serve many purposes, but one of the most important is their duty to protect the quality of the community. This quality might be measured by a range of metrics, but it often includes the maintenance of aesthetics and the prevention of undesirable behaviors. To this end, an HOA might fine residents for failure to maintain their landscaping or issue parking citations for vehicles that are improperly parked. These regulations may seem unreasonable to residents, but they serve to protect the environment that’s cultivated by the HOA.
Keeping Residents Safe
Aesthetic concerns aren’t the only issue HOAs address. Many HOAs also include rules that are intended to protect the safety of its residents. These rules might include the implementation of a curfew or restrictions about what kinds of pets are allowed. Some HOAs also contract out a private security service to patrol the community premises. Residents’ cooperation is essential to keeping a community safe, so rules regarding safety should be communicated clearly to all members. If a resident objects, an HOA representative should explain the purpose of the rule.
Sustaining HOA Budget
Budgetary demands offer yet another reason why HOAs rely on rules. Although each rule should serve a clear purpose to the community, it’s true that fines and citations help to generate revenue. This income can help cover costs such as HOA insurance premiums. HOA insurance is a great way to protect an organization from the liabilities that often emerge from community management, too. Sometimes residents feel compelled to initiate litigation against their HOA, and insurance offers protection from this and other liabilities.
Maintaining Community Amenities
Amenities are one of the best parts of living in an HOA. Who doesn’t want to walk down the street to their community swimming pool or enjoy a rigorous workout on a private tennis court? Features like these are what draw many members to an HOA in the first place, but in order to maintain these amenities, there must be rules to govern their usage. A swimming pool, for example, should include rules regarding adult supervision and general behavior. Maintaining these rules helps keep amenities safe for all community members.
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.