Homeowners’ associations have a host of responsibilities. One of these is that they must care for the common areas in the community. Common areas are shared spaces like pools, parks or clubhouses.
One of the major perks of paying HOA dues is that the homeowners are able to use common areas. These areas should be kept in usable and safe shape. As an HOA, these are some of the basic duties you should expect to perform:
Maintenance and repair
HOAs are responsible for keeping common areas in tip-top shape. This means regular cleaning, repairs and ensuring everything meets safety standards.
For example, picture a community pool. As the HOA, your job is to ensure it’s clean, the water’s chemically balanced and any safety hazards are promptly addressed.
If there’s a playground, you’ll ensure it’s safe and well-maintained for kids to play.
Security
Security is another crucial aspect. HOAs often oversee the safety of these areas, maybe through surveillance cameras or security personnel. This helps keep residents safe and deter any unwanted activities.
For instance, if there’s a community gym, it’s in the HOA’s interest to ensure it’s a secure place for residents to exercise at any time. This may include setting open times to enhance safety even more.
Legal compliance
HOAs must comply with local laws and regulations concerning common areas. This includes health and safety codes, accessibility requirements and environmental regulations. It’s about ensuring that the common areas aren’t just enjoyable, but also legally sound.
If an HOA fails to keep up these common areas as they should, the homeowners may choose to take action. This could throw the HOA into a legal battle that might end up being costly and time consuming.