In Michigan, an HOA is typically established by filing Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State. These articles provide the legal foundation for the association and include key details such as the association's name, purpose, and the initial board of directors.
Once you buy a home that's part of an HOA, you automatically become a member of the HOA. HOA rules are legally binding, and you must adhere to all rules and regulations in the governing document. Yes, there are bylaws that you may not like, but there are no HOA loopholes.
While you can't refuse to join one, there are plenty of constructive ways to voice your concerns and seek change if you find yourself at odds with a mandatory HOA. Here's what you can do: Review Governing Documents: Start by pulling out the HOA's Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) and other bylaws.
Under the newly enacted Homeowners' Energy Policy Act (the “Act”), signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on July 8, 2024, HOAs can no longer prohibit unit owners/homeowners from installing a wide range of energy-efficient upgrades.
HOA LAWS AND REGULATIONS. Federal HOA Laws - In addition to state law regulations, the federal government has laws that govern the operation and management of common interest communities, iniums, cooperatives, and residential properties in the state of Michigan.
In Michigan, HOAs have the power to: Collect payments for shared expenses. Upkeep and regulation of common areas. Levy reasonable fines.
Finally, is an HOA considered a local government? No—HOAs are not considered a local government entity. While they do hold some administrative functions for a community, such as collecting assessments and enforcing rules, they do not possess the authority granted to real government bodies.
A homeowners association cannot evict a homeowner the same way that a landlord can evict a tenant. A landlord typically has a lease that allows the landlord to give the tenant a certain amount of time to correct a problem, move out, or face eviction.