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.
Depending on the organizational form of the entity, however, the home or property owners' association may not be required to register with the secretary of state.
Certificates are filed in the county where the property is located and electronically in the Homeowners' Association Management Certificate Database. They often include contact information, mailing address, and website where governing documents can be found.
House Bill 614 guarantees your right to a hearing before the HOA board to contest the violation or the proposed fine. This ensures a fair and transparent process where you can voice your concerns and advocate for your interests.
HOA board members in Texas can be sued personally if they engage in negligent, willful misconduct, bad faith, fraud, criminal activity or actions beyond their board authority.
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.
Last year, Texas passed House Bill 614, which requires HOAs to be more transparent about fees charged to homeowners. The new law went into effect on Jan. 1, 2024. HOAs are mandated by law to provide property owners with a catalog outlining prohibited items, a fine timetable, and details on the conduct of hearings.
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.
There is no Texas state agency that oversees property owners' associations. Talking to the board or checking the association's rules can sometimes resolve misunderstandings and disagreements. The association's governing documents will often provide a way to submit a complaint directly to the association.