When is the last time you checked out your HOA’s covenants, conditions, and restrictions?
These are also known as CC&Rs, and if it has been a while since you reviewed them, it’s a good idea to check out the things you can and cannot do in your Tampa HOA community. These rules are usually, easy to accept, but you have to make sure you know what they are. You also want to be informed when they change.
CC&Rs Keep a Tampa Association Accountable
CC&Rs play an important role in keeping the homeowner’s association or condo association running efficiently and correctly. CC&Rs are legally binding rules and regulations, and when you buy a property in an association, you’re agreeing to these requirements and prohibitions. You’ll be provided with a complete copy of the CC&Rs and bylaws before you buy a property in an HOA community. And, when you have a tenant living in your home, you’ll be responsible for sharing this information with that tenant. Your resident is responsible for following all the same rules that other members of the association follow.
Governing a Tampa HOA
The rules and regulations are in place to protect your property value and the values of other homes in the community. Most of the requirements are sensible and easy to understand. Many associations have a rule about keeping the lawn neat and trimmed. You’ll have instructions on when it’s appropriate to put the trash out and whether you can have signs in your yard.
Other CC&R requirements are a bit more complicated. For example, you’ll probably see information and stipulations concerning property assessments, guidelines for building designs and additions, and clauses that speak to the governance of the association. Sometimes, it’s hard to understand the expectations and your own responsibilities. When you have tenants living in your HOA property, you need to make sure they understand everything that’s included in their lease agreement.
Violating the CC&Rs or Other HOA Rules
All residents need to avoid violating the CC&Rs. Your community board can fine you for violating any of the rules. While it’s less common, you can also be sued for noncompliance by your association. If your tenant violates a rule or incurs a fine, you will be responsible for those penalties because you are the property owner and the association member.
Most Tampa associations keep their rules current, and they communicate any changes. It’s an important role of the governing body to know how to change or amend a rule that no longer applies to the community or its owners. While some of these requirements might seem strange, they are legally enforceable and they ensure the association can thrive. Under any HOA CC&Rs, all members should be treated fairly and equally.
If you have any questions about the CC&Rs in your HOA or you’re thinking about buying a property in an HOA, please contact us at HomeRiver Group in Tampa. We’d be happy to tell you more.
