How do homeowners associations work?
A homeowners association is an independently run group in “common-interest” communities where residents contribute dues to the upkeep of their neighborhood or individual apartments. HOAs are primarily managed by local homeowners who serve as unpaid volunteers on a board of directors that governs the HOA.
An HOA’s collective set of rules and regulations, which are enforced by the association, regulate the properties within the HOA. The use and upkeep of common areas are covered by HOA dues that each property owner must pay. While each HOA’s services are unique, they may be responsible for the following services within a community:
Maintenance
In common areas of a development, HOAs often take care of garbage collection, lawn care, and other landscaping. While each HOA’s services are different, many maintain common elements including a condo building’s roof, fences, and shared streets.
Insurance policies
Since HOAs frequently carry insurance to cover liabilities and maintenance costs for shared spaces, residents may pay less for their homeowner’s insurance coverage.
Amenities
In certain neighborhoods, HOAs provide amenities like a clubhouse, a swimming pool, a fitness center, or a coworking space that are only available to residents. These features could raise HOA dues.
Establishing community rules
Residents of a homeowners association are required to follow the community’s regulations. In some neighborhoods, HOAs establish guidelines for homeowner upkeep to maintain the neighborhood’s aesthetic unity. Some also restrict who you can rent your house to, including both long-term and short-term tenants.
