Enforcing Community Rules and Regulations In addition, HOAs have the authority to enforce their rules and regulations, such as those pertaining to architectural guidelines, landscaping, and pet restrictions.
The absence of an HOA board can result in significant risks, including financial mismanagement, where bills go unpaid and dues are uncollected, leading to financial instability. Residents and city officials can also bring about legal actions against the HOA, resulting in expensive court actions.
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.
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.
In some cases, an HOA can foreclose on property when the owner has fallen behind on paying fees. The law and the association's governing documents will set out the proper procedure. This includes any required notices to the owner.
Section 82.111 - Insurance (a) Beginning not later than the time of the first conveyance of a unit to a person other than a declarant, the association shall maintain, to the extent reasonably available: (1) property insurance on the insurable common elements insuring against all risks of direct physical loss commonly ...
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.
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.
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.