HOAs are focused on ruling and regulating the community to ensure safety, cleanliness, and maintenance. POA concentrates on the general maintenance of common areas and facilities.
Homeowners' associations (HOAs) are the governing body of many common interest communities (CIC), such as subdivisions, who manage the common areas and interests of the community.
Bylaws cover a range of topics, including finances, voting, appointing officers and directors, and even what happens if the company needs to close. While you won't need to file your corporate bylaws with the Secretary of State—unlike the Texas Certificate of Formation—every Texas corporation is required to have bylaws.
An HOA is a Home Owner's Association. A COA is a inium Owner's Association.
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. The information must be posted to their website and given annually to residents via delivery, first-class mail, or email.
HOA: Manages amenities and common areas within the confines of a particular community, which may include parks, pools, or clubhouses. POA: Often oversees larger-scale amenities, such as golf courses, recreational facilities, or expansive common areas that serve multiple neighborhoods.
Most HOA documents are public record, including governing documents. Some states only require the HOA to make certain documents public, while others can be kept confidential.
To form an HOA in Texas, one initiates the creation of a nonprofit corporation in alignment with the Texas Nonprofit Corporation Act. This act specifies the legal framework for nonprofit entities, including HOAs. The process begins with articles of incorporation, which must be filed with the Texas 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.