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The 3 P’s of Property Maintenance to Remember in Your HOA

Maintaining your property is especially important in HOA communities. Read here to learn about three things you should keep in mind.
Amanda Causey | Mar 28, 2024 | 2 min read
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As a member of an HOA, you are aware that there are things you can and cannot do to your property. You also know that there are some things that the association is responsible for. If you remember these three P’s of property maintenance, then you’re on your way to being a valued member of your association.

Pay Your HOA Fees

As a member of a community association, you are required to pay monthly fees to your association. The purpose of these fees is to cover maintenance for common areas in the development that all members of the association community have access to, as well as amenities in the association.

This general maintenance may include landscaping, insurance for common area structures, security personnel, general upkeep for common areas, mailing costs for newsletters and correspondence, or employment of an HOA management company.

If you have amenities in your community, this may include swimming pools, a clubhouse, a gym, tennis courts, basketball courts, walking trails/tracks, or golf courses. Your association's governing documents should outline exactly what your fees are being used for.

Proper Upkeep of Your Home’s Exterior

Many homeowners associations tell you what you can and cannot do when it comes to the exterior of your home. This includes paint colors, solar panels, holiday decorations, roofs (type and style), satellite dishes (install policies), gardens (types of plants you can have and location, clutter (trash or debris in your yard), or structures (sheds or garages). The main purpose of these rules and regulations is to keep a consistent look throughout the association and maintain attractive curb appeal. Often times this helps increase the property values in the area.

These rules and regulations may sound harsh to some people, but the goal of the association is to try and keep a uniform and maintained look. Having policies like these in place will ensure that your neighbor won’t have cars parked on the lawn, paint their house pink, or have their collection of garden gnomes on display.

Be sure to consult with your association or HOA management company if you’re unsure if you’re breaking a rule or if you suspect your neighbor is in violation.

Plan for Surprise Repairs

Some homeowners associations pay for utilities like water or garbage. But other utilities such as gas, electricity, phone, Internet, and cable are usually the responsibilities of the homeowner. Seasonal maintenance is also the responsibility of the homeowner, as well as any general interior repairs. Some examples of these are plumbing, lighting, electrical work, window replacement, chimney sweeping, HVAC service, vent cleaning, paint, and the like.

The best thing you can do as a member of your homeowners association is to be informed. Attend meetings, ask questions, and read any correspondences that are sent to you. Make a plan to understand what your association is responsible for and what you are responsible for. Before you move into your home, read the rules, regulations, and restrictions so you won't be surprised later. Taking a moment to understand the rules and regulations and committing to putting them into practice ensures you’ll be a property maintenance pro!

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