HOA Rights in Texas The Collection of Fees Known as "Assessments" or "Dues" ... Enforcing Community Rules and Regulations. Access to Common Areas and Shared Facilities. The Right to Create Bylaws. Host Meetings. Property Owners' Associations Must Be Transparent. Fair and Consistent Enforcement of Rules and Regulations.
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.
Disputes. 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.
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.
In 2021, the Texas Senate passed Bill 1588, which placed restrictions on HOA authority over fencing. This legislation ensures that if you own a property, your HOA cannot categorically deny you the right to a fence installation.
For Texas associations, state laws are the only dedicatory instrument that outranks your Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs, your association's “Boss Doc”).
Effective January 1, 2024. A property owners' association must adopt an enforcement policy regarding levying of fines. The policy must be made available to the property owners.
House Bill 614 is a significant step towards a more balanced and equitable relationship between HOAs and homeowners in Texas. By clearly outlining fining procedures and ensuring your right to due process, this HOA law empowers you to navigate your HOA community with confidence.
Notably, Texas HOA's with 60 or more lots are legally required to have an HOA Website, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all members. The HOA Website Law in Texas is designed to facilitate better communication and provide a centralized location for important association information.
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.