Over 70 million Americans live in home association communities. Homeowner associations are often in place for the betterment of a community. They have a variety of roles in a community and are often governed by an elected HOA board of directors.
For homeowners in HOAs in Jefferson, GA, understanding the role of the board is key. The decisions the HOA board makes impacts the whole neighborhood. Keep reading to understand the roles and responsibilities of your HOA board.
Setting the Budget
Creating the annual budget is a critical duty of the HOA board of directors. They must estimate how much money the HOA will take in from homeowner dues and other sources. Then they decide how to spend that money wisely on the community's needs.
Expenses include things like landscaping, pools, playgrounds, insurance, water, garbage, repairs, and emergency savings. The board aims to set affordable dues and fees for homeowners while still funding operating and maintenance costs.
Establishing and Enforcing Rules
The HOA board creates and oversees rules for the community known as CC&Rs, covenants, conditions, and restrictions. These cover issues like building standards, parking, pets, noise, trash, and other neighborhood guidelines. It's the board's job to review the rules and make sure they are clear for all homeowners.
They review and interpret how the CC&Rs apply when issues arise. The board works with the HOA manager to enforce CC&Rs fairly. This helps maintain community standards and resolve disputes between neighbors.
Maintaining Common Areas
The board is in charge of caring for the common areas owned by the HOA community. This includes pools, tot lots, parks, walking trails, clubhouses, parking lots, and more. Keeping these amenities clean, safe, and in working order is a big responsibility.
The board oversees regular upkeep like landscaping, janitorial services, repairs, improvements, and security. They may work with vendors, contractors, or an HOA management company.
Managing Contracts and Services
HOAs rely on many outside services like security, landscaping, insurance, and garbage collection. It's the board's duty to find, evaluate, and manage vendors. They must solicit bids, review options, and select cost-effective providers.
They negotiate contract terms, oversee work, and assess performance. Switching vendors or renewing contracts also falls under the HOA board's management duties.
Legal Obligations
The HOA board has important legal responsibilities. They must ensure the HOA complies with all relevant state, local, and federal laws and regulations pertaining to HOAs. This includes adhering to laws regarding HOA governance, meetings, elections, records, and more.
Handling taxes appropriately is also a legal requirement the board must meet. Meeting all legal obligations keeps the HOA in good standing and protects homeowners.
Lean on a Trusted Partner to Support Your HOA Board
Serving on an HOA board is a big commitment and responsibility. It takes time and effort to properly manage a community. Understanding the role of the HOA board and cooperating with them can help maintain a pleasant neighborhood.
If you live in an HOA community in Jefferson, GA, and have questions about your HOA structure, contact us today. We also offer HOA management services to support the duties of the board and ensure your community thrives. Get in touch to learn more about how we can help your HOA community.
