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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
There must be at least three people on the Board of Directors. If an association's governing documents do not state how many people must serve on the Board of Directors, Texas law says that the number will be equal to the initial number of directors listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
The maximum special assessment that a HOA in Texas can impose is five percent of the current year's budgeted gross expenses, though a community vote may be required to approve this. However, the vote must be approved by a majority of the members in the community.
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.