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.
No, there is not a way to ``leave the HOA'' without moving. The HOA covenants are tied to the property permanently.
To comply with New York law, there are three primary pathways to establish an HOA: obtaining a no-action letter under 13 NYCRR Section 22.8, utilizing the Cooperative Policy Statement No. 7 (CPS-7), or filing an offering plan pursuant to 13 NYCRR Part 22 (Part 22).
The best way to strategize on short-term rental restrictions is to speak to a board member. At the same time, you can consult the CC&Rs' (Covenants, conditions, and restrictions) advice. Knowing the potential risks of getting around HOA's restrictions is important. And we highly recommend doing it the legal way.
The local law supersedes the rules and regulations of the HOA, meaning that HOAs must ensure they are operating under the law.
Homeowners' Associations in New York, or otherwise known as Common Interest Communities, are regulated by the Attorney General's office and must be set up as non-profit organizations. They are governed by NY Not-For-Profit Corporation Law, the Association's Articles of Declaration, and Bylaws.
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.”
An HOA management company can help your board by taking on some (or most) of its day-to-day responsibilities. Unlike volunteer board members, HOA management staff work on a full-time basis. That mean that helping your association is their main focus and they have the time and resources to do the job well.
Go to a board meeting and register your complaint. Have documentation in the form of photos, videos, etc. to prove that what you're complaining about is accurate. Monitor the results. Repeat if necessary. The board has a legal obligation to make sure that owners follow the CCR's. Be a pest.