The main difference is that covenants dictate property-related restrictions, while bylaws govern how the HOA operates — things like board elections, meeting procedures, and voting rights. Because covenants are recorded with the property deed and tied to real estate law, they generally hold more weight.
Homeowners often ask whether local laws supersede the rules and regulations set forth by their homeowner association (HOA). The short answer is yes, local laws do supersede HOA rules.
Homeowners can sue a board member of an HOA in Virginia if they believe there has been a violation of the governing documents or state law. Legal action must be based on specific grievances, such as breach of fiduciary duty or failure to follow the association's rules.
Who governs homeowners associations in Virginia? HOAs are subject to a number of state, federal, and local laws and are governed by a common interest community board that creates and enforces certain rules and regulations contained in the HOA's governing documents.
In some states, such as California, HOA bylaws are considered public record and must be made available upon request.
Many associations have communication channels in place so that homeowners can talk to the board or the community manager about any issues. However, if you wish to file a complaint against your HOA, you can do so with the Office of the Common Interest Community Ombudsman.
In these situations, you can complain directly to this office by filing the CIC Complaint Form, which you can find under the “Forms and Applications” tab here: .dpor.virginia/cic-ombudsman.
In some states, such as California, HOA bylaws are considered public record and must be made available upon request.
10 things to include in your HOA bylaws Name and purpose. The very first bylaws are the ones in which the association states its. Membership requirements. Board duties. Officer duties. Board member meetings. Member meetings. Committees. Non-compliance to bylaws.