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.
Association bylaws cover a range of topics like an organization's purpose, how meetings should be run and membership requirements. By ironing out these details, associations can stay focused and save time when navigating operations thanks to having established standards in place.
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.
In some states, such as California, HOA bylaws are considered public record and must be made available upon request.
The local law supersedes the rules and regulations of the HOA, meaning that HOAs must ensure they are operating under the law.
HOA LAWS AND REGULATIONS. Federal HOA Laws - In addition to state law regulations, the federal government has laws that govern the operation and management of common interest communities, iniums, cooperatives, and residential properties in the state of Michigan.
Under the newly enacted Homeowners' Energy Policy Act (the “Act”), signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on July 8, 2024, HOAs can no longer prohibit unit owners/homeowners from installing a wide range of energy-efficient upgrades.
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.
As Kriegstein explains, “In order to enforce an HOA rule, the association must have the authority to do so, as outlined in its governing documents. This may include the ability to impose fines or penalties for noncompliance or to take legal action against homeowners who refuse to comply.”
In general, homeowners can request HOA documents that cover the following: Governing documents, including the CC&Rs, bylaws, articles of incorporation, community plat, and operating rules; All board and membership meeting minutes and notices; Membership lists; All insurance policies of the association;