Homeowners associations, or HOAs, are groups that make rules to keep neighborhoods nice and tidy. If you live in a community with an HOA, you probably know they have rules about how your home should look and what you can do.
While HOAs can seem strict, there are some things they can't stop you from doing. Here are the seven things they cannot stop you from doing.
What Is an HOA?
A Homeowners Association (HOA) is a private organization that governs a residential community, such as a subdivision, condominium, or planned community. Membership in an HOA is typically mandatory for homeowners within the community, and it comes with specific responsibilities and benefits.
HOAs create and enforce rules to maintain property values and community standards. These rules can cover various aspects, such as architectural guidelines, landscaping requirements, and maintenance obligations. Moreover, HOAs collect regular fees (often monthly or annually) from homeowners to cover operational costs, maintenance of common areas, insurance, and sometimes amenities like clubhouses or fitness centers.
7 Things Your Community HOA Can't Stop You From Doing
1. Change HOA Regulations
Homeowners in the community can come together and vote to update or remove certain rules if they don't seem fair or no longer make sense. If enough people agree, the HOA must listen and make those changes.
2. Fly the American Flag
HOAs can't stop you from proudly flying the American flag on your property. While there might be guidelines about the size or placement of the flag, they can't ban it entirely.
3. Question HOA Fees
HOAs collect fees to maintain the neighborhood, but sometimes you might wonder where your money is going. If the fees seem too high or unclear, you have the right to ask questions. You can request an explanation and make sure the fees are being used for the good of the community.
4. Question Special Assessments
Special assessments are extra charges the HOA might ask for when there's a big project, like fixing a roof or repaving a road. If you get charged one, you don't have to accept it without knowing why. You can ask for details about the project and even suggest alternatives if the cost seems unfair.
5. Request Financial Reports
As a homeowner, you contribute money to the HOA, and you have the right to know how it's being spent. You can ask to see financial reports, which show how the HOA is using the funds. This helps ensure your money is being used responsibly and not wasted.
6. Request for Accommodations if You Are Disabled
If you or a family member has a disability, you can ask for reasonable accommodations to make life easier. For example, you might need a wheelchair ramp, an accessible parking spot, or permission for a service animal. Federal laws protect your right to these changes, and the HOA must cooperate.
7. Use Common Areas
Shared spaces like parks, pools, or clubhouses are there for everyone to enjoy. As long as you follow the basic rules, the HOA can't stop you from using them. These areas are part of what you pay for with your HOA fees, so they're meant to be accessible to all homeowners.
