As a homeowner living in a community governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA), understanding the division of responsibilities can sometimes be confusing—especially when it comes to repairs. The question often arises: what repairs are HOA responsible for? Knowing who handles which repairs is crucial for both the smooth functioning of the community and ensuring homeowners’ peace of mind.
In this blog, we’ll explore the typical responsibilities of an HOA when it comes to repairs, providing you with a clearer picture of what to expect from your association.
Table of Contents
What is an HOA Responsible for?
The fundamental purpose of an HOA is to maintain and manage the community’s shared spaces and infrastructure. These common areas are essential to the community’s overall quality of life, and the HOA is usually responsible for ensuring they remain in good condition.
Common Areas and Shared Spaces
One of the main aspects of HOA responsibility involves repairs to common areas and shared spaces. This includes:
- Landscaping: The upkeep of lawns, trees, and plants within community parks, walkways, and around common buildings falls under the HOA’s purview. This also includes the irrigation systems that keep these areas green.
- Swimming Pools and Recreational Facilities: Regular maintenance, repairs, and any necessary upgrades to community pools, tennis courts, or playgrounds are typically the responsibility of the HOA.
- Clubhouses and Gyms: Whether it’s a roof leak or plumbing issue, repairs and general maintenance of these community amenities fall under HOA obligations.
- Lighting and Security Systems: The repair and replacement of streetlights, security cameras, and access control systems are also part of the HOA’s duty.
By covering these key areas, the HOA ensures that residents can enjoy a safe and pleasant environment.
What Repairs are HOAs Not Responsible For?
While the HOA takes care of common spaces, it’s important to note that they are generally not responsible for repairs within individual homes or private property. Homeowners must typically manage:
- Interior Repairs: Whether it’s plumbing issues, electrical wiring, or HVAC system failures inside the home, the homeowner is responsible for handling these repairs.
- Private Yard Maintenance: Unless your HOA has specific guidelines for landscaping in front of individual homes, any yard or garden space that is part of your property is your responsibility to maintain.
Understanding HOA Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs)
Every HOA operates based on a set of legal documents known as Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). These documents clearly outline what repairs are HOA responsible for and what falls under homeowner duties. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the CC&Rs for your community to avoid confusion or disputes.
For example, some communities may have specific clauses related to exterior repairs, such as roof maintenance or siding. In some cases, the HOA may be responsible for external structural repairs, while in others, homeowners may be required to handle them.
Exterior Repairs: A Gray Area
Exterior repairs, such as roofing, siding, and driveways, often fall into a gray area depending on the community and the specific HOA agreement. While some HOAs may take responsibility for external structural repairs, others may place the onus on individual homeowners. It’s essential to review your HOA’s specific rules and bylaws to determine whether you are responsible for these repairs or if the HOA will handle them.
For townhouses and condominiums, the HOA typically assumes more responsibility for exterior repairs because the structure is shared with multiple units. For single-family homes, however, the responsibility might lean more heavily on the homeowner.
How to Request Repairs from Your HOA
If you believe that a repair within your community is the responsibility of the HOA, it’s essential to follow the proper channels to get the issue resolved. Most HOAs have a system in place for submitting repair requests. This process typically involves filling out a form or contacting the HOA management team directly.
Be sure to provide as much detail as possible when making your request, including photos if necessary, to ensure the repair is addressed efficiently.
Conclusion
Understanding what repairs are HOA responsible for is key to navigating life in a community governed by an association. In general, the HOA takes care of common areas, recreational facilities, and shared infrastructure, while homeowners are responsible for repairs within their own homes.
To avoid any surprises, be sure to review your HOA’s CC&Rs and consult with your HOA board or management company if you’re ever unsure about repair responsibilities. Clear communication and understanding will ensure that your community remains a well-maintained and enjoyable place to live.
If you’re managing an HOA and looking for software to streamline operations, our HOA management software offers all the tools you need to stay on top of maintenance, requests, and more