To change HOA bylaws in Michigan, a majority vote from the association members is typically required, following procedures outlined in the original bylaws with adherence to the governing documents and state laws.
In general, homeowners can request HOA documents that cover the following: Governing documents, including the CC&Rs, bylaws, articles of incorporation, community plat, and operating rules; All board and membership meeting minutes and notices; Membership lists; All insurance policies of the association;
To the extent an HOA's activities implicate any consumer protection statutes, the HOA is subject to the enforcement power of the Michigan Attorney General. Importantly, homeowners' associations are bound by its governing documents (Bylaws, Declaration, Articles of Incorporation).
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.
First, the individuals or parties desiring the change will propose an amendment, and then a vote takes place on whether to approve the proposed change. The voters will include the co-owners and mortgagees of properties within the association. For the amendment to pass, there must be a two-thirds approval vote.
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.
Any changes to the Articles of Incorporation or the bylaws must be documented in the county in which the community is located.
It requires HOAs to adopt a solar energy policy within a year. And they can't enforce standards that increase installation costs by more than $1,000 or decrease energy output by more than 10 percent. The law is geared toward single-family homes, and doesn't apply to shared roofs and common areas.
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.
Personal lawsuits HOA board members hold a fiduciary position. This means they are expected to transact HOA business, especially regarding its finances, with the highest level of integrity. HOA board members may be personally sued for acting negligently or violating their fiduciary duties.