Homeowner associations (HOAs) are typically disciplinarian. They often have their own set of rules that govern their communities – popularly known as covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs). Familiarizing yourself with them can help you make an informed decision. Here is what you should expect.
Pet restrictions
HOAs can prohibit certain categories of pets. Usually, they exclude pets that are harmful or dangerous to the residents. Even among the allowed pet category, certain breeds might face scrutiny. For instance, if you have a pit bull, there may be specific rules about how you should maintain the dog in the neighborhood. Lastly, they can also put a limit on the number of pets a household can have.
Note: These restrictions may not apply to individuals with disabilities who require assistance animals, as reasonable accommodations are protected under the federal Fair Housing Act.
Parking restrictions
HOAs often enforce parking rules to keep up community aesthetics and safety. They may dictate where you can park, such as prohibiting street parking or requiring vehicles to be stored in a garage. Additionally, associations may limit the number of vehicles per household or place outright bans on specific vehicle types, such as commercial trucks, RVs or boats.
Note: These restrictions are applicable only if the HOAs own and maintain the roads.
Modification restrictions
To preserve the neighborhood’s architectural character and uniformity, HOAs typically require homeowners to seek approval from them before making any changes to the property. This can apply to a wide range of projects, from painting your home a different color to adding structures like sheds.
Evaluating HOA rules before you buy
Before finalizing your home purchase, visualize your daily life under these association regulations. If you feel at ease with that scenario, you will likely find it acceptable once you start living. Even so, consulting a legal professional experienced in real estate law is important for complete clarity.
