In Philadelphia, PA, homeowner associations (HOAs) must comply with both state and federal regulations. Enforcing the rules and resolving disputes are key responsibilities of an HOA. These tasks ensure fair treatment and address any violations within the community.
For instance, in Pennsylvania, HOAs are regulated by the Uniformed Planned Community Act (UPCA). This act applies to all planned communities with more than 12 units and creates responsibilities for HOAs to oversee these communities. That said, HOAs typically have documents that regulate themselves.
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.
Many HOAs maintain a website where governing documents are posted. To find HOA rules and regulations online: Navigate to the HOA's official website. Look for sections labeled “Documents,” “Governing Documents,” or “Rules and Regulations.”
The Pennsylvania General Assembly enacted Act 115, which amends Title 68 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes and impacts the governance of homeowners associations (also known as planned communities), inium associations and cooperatives in the Commonwealth.
In Pennsylvania, homeowner associations (HOAs) are governed by specific state laws to maintain order and regulate affairs within planned communities. These regulations are primarily outlined in the Uniform Planned Community Act (UPCA), codified in Title 68, Chapters 51-54 of the Pennsylvania statutes.
Iniums in Pennsylvania are governed by the Uniform inium Act, 68 Pa. Stat. §§ 3101 to 3414 (the “UCA”). Although “inium” is a term generally used to refer to an individually-owed unit, it is also a form of ownership where property other than the individual unit is deemed to be common property.