Homeowners associations in Texas must be incorporated as nonprofit organizations under the Texas Nonprofit Corporation Act. Meanwhile, inium associations may be organized as for-profit or nonprofit corporations. The association must file the Articles of Incorporation with the Texas Secretary of State.
6 Steps to Amend HOA Bylaws and Covenants Amendment Proposal. The first step consists of a proposal describing the changes to the bylaw or covenant. Discussion Meeting. The board will then discuss the proposed amendment at a board meeting. Give it a Vote. Count the Votes. Amendment Approval. Recording and Effectivity.
Disclosure Requirements Disclosure is mandated by law, often through public records and real property records. Before purchasing a home, buyers must receive a set of documents detailing the HOA's health, such as its covenants, conditions, restrictions, bylaws, rules, and financial statements.
Texas law places no limit on how much or how often assessments may increase. Any caps or restrictions will likely be found in the association's governing documents. Articles of incorporation or bylaws often limit the maximum amount that can be charged without approval by the general vote.
Texas House Bill 614: Balances power between HOAs and homeowners. To help address the problem of homeowners not being aware, or unclear about HOA rules, how they may have broken them, and what the financial penalties are, Texas passed house bill 614, in January 2024.
House Bill 614 guarantees your right to a hearing before the HOA board to contest the violation or the proposed fine. This ensures a fair and transparent process where you can voice your concerns and advocate for your interests.
In 2021, the Texas Senate passed Bill 1588, which placed restrictions on HOA authority over fencing. This legislation ensures that if you own a property, your HOA cannot categorically deny you the right to a fence installation.
The governing documents should stipulate the conditions under which the property owners' association may access the premises. It's also important to mention here that HOAs must provide the homeowner with written notice at least one to two weeks before entering the property unless there is an emergency.
Certificates are filed in the county where the property is located and electronically in the Homeowners' Association Management Certificate Database. They often include contact information, mailing address, and website where governing documents can be found.
Texas law places limits on HOA power, including restrictions on their ability to prohibit certain types of construction like solar panels and rules against unreasonable fines or foreclosure practices. The exact limitations are outlined in state statutes, which are intended to protect homeowners' rights.