What are Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs)?
CC&Rs are the guidelines that apply to homes in a planned community, as set out by a homeowner’s association (HOA). These guidelines apply to your home or the home you are looking to buy only if it exists within a HOA. So, it is important to consider the type of community home is in when looking to purchase real estate.
A HOA establishes the CC&Rs to set the regulations and restrictions you will need to adhere to as a homeowner within their community. Many of these guidelines may present as obvious and beneficial, while others could be seen as restrictive. Thus, it is important to consider how these laws correspond with your needs and lifestyle.
If you are to purchase a house in a planned community, you must agree to uphold all these conditions. If any of the rules are violated, the homeowner could face warnings, fines, or even legal action.
Examples of CC&Rs
You will find that many HOAs will present different sets of CC&Rs, though some rules you’ll find across the board. These laws are written up to address conditions of house aesthetics, parking, business operations, pets and social gatherings. Common CC&Rs include – keeping your lawn from becoming overgrown or disorderly, size or breed restrictions of your pet, or limited days and times when social gatherings may occur.
Oftentimes, CC&Rs are set forth to maintain an aesthetic standard and continuity in the neighborhood. These guidelines could dictate the colors used when painting your house, or the type of fencing you are allowed to erect.
It is imperative that you review and understand a Homeowner Association’s CC&Rs before you commit to joining their community.
