Whether it’s due to rain, snow, or simply improper sewage systems, drainage problems in HOA communities are not unheard of. In fact, they can be fairly common in low-lying or poorly constructed neighborhoods. What do you do when it happens? Let’s find out.   The Impact of Drainage Problems in HOA Communities Drainage problems in HOA communities can have a significant impact on community living and property. The following are the most common consequences of improper drainage: Poor Aesthetics. Improper drainage can lead to unsightly standing water in the community’s yards and common areas ..read more

No matter how pretty or well-maintained a community is, improper or haphazard parking can hamper an HOA’s curb appeal. Poor parking habits can also obstruct entrances and roads, inconveniencing the neighborhood’s residents. For these reasons, communities should enforce proper HOA parking rules.   What HOA Parking Rules Should You Have? If you live in an HOA, you might know that parking issues in neighborhoods can cause many headaches. Homeowners may buy too many cars than their garage can fit. Meanwhile, some homeowners might not even have a garage to begin with. They might park their car ..read more

Can an HOA restrict security cameras? This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask. Planned communities are known for having stringent rules about what residents can and can’t do. When it comes to security cameras, though, the answer isn’t always straightforward.   Can an HOA Restrict Security Cameras? Security cameras have become widely accessible over the past few decades. Compared to the ones that came before, security cameras nowadays are smaller, easier to install, and more versatile. Thanks to Internet capabilities, owners can also access footage through smart devices. Gi ..read more

What should homeowners do if a neighbors tree is overhanging, encroaching, or has caused property damage? Let’s explore how neighborhood trees can cause conflict and what to do about them.   Neighbors Tree Disputes in HOAs Many homeowners plant trees on their property to beautify their yard’s landscaping. Some even plant trees for privacy from neighbors. However, as people do, trees do not follow the governing documents or encroachment laws. They grow tall and wide and do not obey property lines. This is why conflict regarding trees is one of the most common sources of disputes in HOA com ..read more

It’s no secret that many states have a bug problem in spring. After all, insects usually die off during the winter and increase in number during the springtime. As such, HOAs must watch out for bug infestations in their common areas during the season.   Bug Problem in Spring: The Buggiest States According to search data, the pesky bug problem in spring is more prevalent in certain states. Let’s examine which states have the most online monthly searches regarding pest control. California. Each month, the residents of California log roughly 47,000 searches for pest control. The predominant ..read more

HOA sidewalk maintenance is often a topic of debate in planned communities. But, who is really responsible for sidewalks? Is it the HOA, the homeowner, or the city? Let’s find out.   Who Is Responsible for HOA Sidewalk Maintenance? Is the sidewalk in front of your house your property? If not, is HOA responsible for sidewalks or is the city responsible for sidewalk repair and maintenance? Unfortunately, there is no straight answer to this because it varies depending on the circumstances. In fact, HOA sidewalk repair and maintenance can even be shared responsibilities in some communities. H ..read more

Homeowners should familiarize themselves with the most common HOA violations. In doing so, they can take the proper precautions to avoid committing these violations, thereby protecting themselves from potential penalties. It also saves their HOA the headache and contributes to a better community.   Common HOA Violations That Homeowners Commit Homeowners associations are known for their many rules and regulations. When a resident breaks a rule, it results in a violation, which comes with certain penalties. These rules, though, can vary from one community to another. That said, some violati ..read more

How do you remove an HOA board member? Homeowners might ask this question when board members aren’t fulfilling their duties. While the process may be challenging, it’s not impossible.   Can an HOA Board Member Be Removed? At first, removing an HOA board member may seem out of the question, especially since the community elected them. However, it may be possible depending on the reason. The governing documents and state law may outline various acceptable grounds for removing HOA officers. Many governing documents will allow the community members to remove a board member if they fail to mee ..read more

Is hiring an HOA pool lifeguard necessary for safety? Homeowners associations must act in the residents’ best interest. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean every community with a pool needs one. HOAs must consider several factors before they hire an HOA pool lifeguard.   Should You Hire an HOA Pool Lifeguard? Do HOA pools have to have lifeguards? It often depends on the specific circumstances of the community. A dedicated lifeguard has its pros and cons. Before your community rushes to make a decision, consider these factors first.   1. Safety Drowning is always a big problem when ..read more

HOA disaster management is a vital part of running a community. The board has to create an emergency plan in case natural disasters or calamities strike. Doing so can help the community navigate the aftermath and quickly get back on its feet.   How to Create an HOA Disaster Management Plan Natural disasters come and go every year. They can come in small calamities like thunderstorms or larger ones like tornadoes and blazing wildfires. The most common ones in the United States come in the form of severe thunderstorms. However, certain parts of the country are more prone to specific disaste ..read more