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.
HOA Rights in Texas The Collection of Fees Known as "Assessments" or "Dues" ... Enforcing Community Rules and Regulations. Access to Common Areas and Shared Facilities. The Right to Create Bylaws. Host Meetings. Property Owners' Associations Must Be Transparent. Fair and Consistent Enforcement of Rules and Regulations.
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.
Aesthetics: While HOAs cannot prohibit xeriscaping, they can regulate it to ensure it complements the neighborhood's look.
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.
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.
In some cases, an HOA can foreclose on property when the owner has fallen behind on paying fees. The law and the association's governing documents will set out the proper procedure. This includes any required notices to the owner.
HOA Rights in Texas The Collection of Fees Known as "Assessments" or "Dues" ... Enforcing Community Rules and Regulations. Access to Common Areas and Shared Facilities. The Right to Create Bylaws. Host Meetings. Property Owners' Associations Must Be Transparent. Fair and Consistent Enforcement of Rules and Regulations.
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 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.