Massachusetts Recorded Document Search - Visit your county recorder's office to find HOA documents, like CC&Rs, Amendments, Bylaws, HOA Notices, Subdivision Maps, Plats, Recorded Land Surveys, Deeds, Deeds of Trust, Liens, and Judgments. Search under the subdivision or community name.
The state ranked seventh nationally for the number of associations by the Foundation for Community Association Research, a nonprofit organization that focuses on community research in the homeowner and inium association industry. The organization reports that Massachusetts has 11,800 associations.
HOAs are critical for the preservation of property values, cultivating a feeling of community, and resolving common concerns. These private entities are regulated by Massachusetts HOA laws and are also obligated to follow the guidelines set out in their own governing documents.
To establish a HOA in Massachusetts, one must first file a master deed, setting forth the covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) of the property. This act legally creates the homeowners association as a corporation and it must comply with both state laws and federal regulations.
Dissolving an HOA is a complex process that typically requires: A supermajority vote from homeowners. Legal documentation to formally disband the HOA. Settlement of any outstanding debts or obligations. Approval from local or state authorities, depending on the community's location.
Corporate bylaws are legally required in Massachusetts. The board of directors typically adopt initial bylaws at the first organizational meeting.
What Are My Rights as a Condo Owner? As a condo owner, you have the right to use your unit as provided in the master deed – if it's a residential inium unit – in a way that allows you to maintain a reasonable standard of living as required by Massachusetts health, safety and building laws.
Legal Framework Governing HOAs in Massachusetts In Massachusetts, homeowners' associations (HOAs) are subject to a robust legal framework. This framework not only aligns with federal regulations but also includes state-specific laws designed to regulate the formation, management, and operation of these associations.