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.
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.
Homeowners have the right to challenge the HOA if the HOA is not following its governing documents or the law. However, before filing a lawsuit, homeowners are usually required to participate in dispute resolution through either internal dispute resolution (IDR) or alternative dispute resolution (ADR).
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.
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.
Understanding Texas HOA Laws The homeowners association's management of affairs is governed by a board of directors elected by the homeowners. The board is responsible for enforcing the community's restrictive covenants, managing the community's finances, and making decisions on behalf of the community.
If a property owners' association violates a provision of the Texas Residential Property Owners Protection Act, the property owner may sue the association in a Justice of the Peace court. Civil lawsuits can generally be filed in district courts as well, but the process tends to be more complex.
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.
Depending on the organizational form of the entity, however, the home or property owners' association may not be required to register with the secretary of state.