If you are thinking of moving into an HOA or a planning community, you first need to know the rules and regulations of the place. Different HOAs have different sets of rules. It is important to go through this document before deciding to buy a house.
CC&Rs are governing documents of an HOA where the information about what you can and cannot do with your property is mentioned. It mentions your rights, requirements, and limitations as a homeowner. These rules may seem absurd and unfair to some; however, the board aims to maintain a high quality of living by implementing these.
Board members are usually responsible for ensuring that every homeowner is aware of the CC&R and is following it. However, many HOAs take assistance from Chandler HOA management services as handling so many families can be stressful.
What are CC&Rs?
CC&Rs stand for Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions. In real estate, CC&Rs are the essential rules that a member of a homeowners association or HOA should follow. This document describes what a homeowner can and cannot do in their house while living in the community. Each member of an HOA is legally required to abide by these rules.
Common Regulations Found in CC&Rs
Here are some standard regulations found in most CC&Rs.
- Exterior aesthetics – You may not be allowed to paint certain colors on the exterior wall of your house, pick your choice of fence, etc. This is enforced to maintain the curb appeal of the community.
- Landscaping – You may not be allowed to plant certain plants and trees. Moreover, you would have to mow the grass on your lawn on time and keep it weed-free so that it does not look displeasing.
- Pets – There may be restrictions on how many pets are allowed per house and which pets are allowed. There also may be restrictions on certain kinds of breeds.
- Vehicle parking – Your HOA may allow parking space for only a certain number of vehicles.
- Business – You may not be allowed to start a business from your home if it causes disturbance to your neighbors and other members of the HOA.
What happens when someone violates these rules?
When you buy a house in a planned community, you are required to sign a legal document that states that you agree to all the community policies. For your first violation, you will not likely face any penalties. The board will send you a written or verbal notice informing you about your mistake and requesting you to fix it. If you do not correct your error, you can face several penalties.
- Fines
- Loss of amenities and privileges
- Foreclosure
- Lawsuits
