In a lot of ways, living in a community association is like living in a little town within a town. There are certain rules and regulations homeowners are expected to follow, but sometimes they can feel arbitrarily enforced or dictated. These are some of the most common questions asked about community rules. And remember, when it comes to the rules in your own HOA, it’s important to check your community’s governing documents.
What are we doing about people who take up all the parking?
Unassigned parking spaces that are owned by the Association are usually governed by the Board of Directors. The Board is charged with enforcing parking regulations that may be specified in the community’s governing documents and may adopt additional rules and regulations to regulate parking.
If you feel there is a violation, you should record the vehicle description and license number, attempt to observe which home the driver is associated with, and forward the information in writing to your community’s Association Manager.
I live in a single family home in an HOA. Why is it okay for homeowners to park in the street?
If the streets are owned by the Association, the Association’s Board of Directors is typically delegated the authority to adopt rules and regulations that regulate parking. However, if the streets are publicly owned, the City, County, or State regulates parking. In general, unless the body that governs street parking prohibits it, parking is allowed.
Who is supposed to be ensuring that my neighbor is following the covenants?
There is no one person who holds this responsibility. Your Association’s Board of Directors has a responsibility to enforce the governing documents of the community. The Board delegates the responsibility to inspect the community for violations to the Association Manager. However, the manager does not always catch every violation of the rules. If you see something, say something. Observations, questions, and concerns should be sent to your community’s Association Manager. He or she will coordinate any response with the Board.
What can I do if my neighbor isn’t obeying the “quiet time” rules?
There is no one person who holds this responsibility. Your association’s board of directors has a responsibility to enforce the governing documents of the community. However, everyone in the community should do their part to be good neighbors. Observations, questions, and concerns should be sent to your community’s association manager. He or she will coordinate any response with the board.
If it is after normal business hours and the noise is particularly offensive, you should consider calling the local police. If the problem persists, you may have additional rights to relief through a civil court action.
