Homeowners Association

A homeowners association (or HOA) is the governing body that makes and enforces many of the rules that pertain to “common interest developments” such as tract housing and condominiums. For example, a homeowners’ association may decide that no houses in a particular development may exceed a certain height. They may also pay for certain improvements to an entire development, such as hiring local security or landscaping workers. HOA’s are usually governed by a group of residents in the development. This section contains practical and legal information on homeowners associations.

The reason why certain communities adopt rules for residents and enforce them through an HOA is to maintain a general uniformity among close-knit properties, typically condominiums grouped together in the same structure. These rules are meant to keep the neighborhood attractive and well-maintained, but also to help maintain property values. For example, an HOA may dictate what colors your house may be, whether you may have political signs in your yard, how long your grass may get before you need to mow it, and so on.

In addition to enforcing rules, HOAs also manage a fund to pay for communal resources, such as a neighborhood park or swimming pool, paved roads, and maintenance of shared structures (such as the exterior walls of a condominium). Homeowners typically pay monthly dues that keep this fund replenished, some of which is put into a reserve account for emergencies and large-scale projects.

The HOA itself usually is handled by an outside property management group, but the governing board is made up of homeowners in the neighborhood. Newly proposed rules, changes, and expenditures typically must clear a vote by HOA board members.

HOA Disputes

Disputes between the HOA and homeowners are actually quite common, mostly related to monthly dues. Since HOAs are required to keep a certain amount of money tucked away in reserves, in case an expensive need should arise, they may raise the monthly dues if the funds go below that level; and rate hikes are never popular. Some homeowners may feel as if the HOA’s rules are too invasive and balk at fines for things like cars in the driveway or loud music.

But just as often, disputes involving HOAs stem from misunderstandings or failure to know the rules. It’s best to work out these disputes by talking them out reasonably, rather than filing lawsuits or creating additional problems out of frustration or protest.

What HOAs Regulate

HOAs are all a little different and are meant to reflect the values and desires of the community as a whole, or at least those of the original planners. This means you really need to learn about these rules before you buy. If you enjoy growing your own vegetables, for example, be aware that many HOAs prohibit outside vegetable gardens; but there also are communities with HOAs that welcome such hobbies and lifestyles.
HOAs often have rules about (a) Noise (b) Pets; (c) Landscaping; (d) whether or not you can run a business from your home; (e) whether or not you can put a swing set in your yard; and (f) what color your paint has to be, etc.

Homeowners Association Lawyer Free Consultation

When you need legal help with a Home Owner’s Association, please call Ascent Law for your free consultation (801) 676-5506. We want to help you.

Michael Anderson

People who want a lot of Bull go to a Butcher. People who want results navigating a complex legal field go to a Lawyer that they can trust. That’s where I come in. I am Michael Anderson, an Attorney in the Salt Lake area focusing on the needs of the Average Joe wanting a better life for him and his family. I’m the Lawyer you can trust. I grew up in Utah and love it here. I am a Father to three, a Husband to one, and an Entrepreneur. I understand the feelings of joy each of those roles bring, and I understand the feeling of disappointment, fear, and regret when things go wrong. I attended the University of Utah where I received a B.A. degree in 2010 and a J.D. in 2014. I have focused my practice in Wills, Trusts, Real Estate, and Business Law. I love the thrill of helping clients secure their future, leaving a real legacy to their children. Unfortunately when problems arise with families. I also practice Family Law, with a focus on keeping relationships between the soon to be Ex’s civil for the benefit of their children and allowing both to walk away quickly with their heads held high. Before you worry too much about losing everything that you have worked for, before you permit yourself to be bullied by your soon to be ex, before you shed one more tear in silence, call me. I’m the Lawyer you can trust.

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