As a homeowner in a community association, there is much that you can do to ensure everyone in your community enjoys a great neighborhood.

Community Association Institute  put together a great resource guide on Principles for Community Association Success. We've highlighted some key information from that resource guide in this article which will be part of a 3 part series.  To see original document click here.

By understanding your rights and responsibilities, you will help maintain property values, preserve a sense of community, and bring top-quality leadership to your association.

Let's take a look at what you, the homeowner, need to know about your rights as well as your responsibilities.

Rights of Homeowners

As a homeowner, you have many rights that help maintain a peaceful, vibrant community. You need to understand these rights so that you and your neighbors can get the most from your community association.

1. You have the right to a responsive and qualified community association and fair treatment from leaders and managers in your community.

2. You have the right to participate in the association by attending meetings, joining committees, or even running for leadership positions.

3. You should be able to access association records and you deserve fair treatment in regards to financial and other association matters, including the discussion of payments, fees, and expenditures.

4. You have the right to receive all documents that address rules and regulations governing the association. If you don't receive these documents before your purchase, you absolutely have the right to demand these documents when the purchase is made.

5. You have the right to appeal decisions made by leaders in your community that directly affect financial responsibilities and property rights.

These are the basic rights that you hold as a homeowner. Keep these rights in mind and you will have an excellent community for you and your family.

Responsibilities of Homeowners

While you have many rights as a homeowner in a community association, you also have certain responsibilities. Understanding and following through with these responsibilities is essential if you want to have an enjoyable long-term living experience.

1. It is your responsibility to read and respect all the governing documents that apply to your association. These documents will outline standards for your community, and it's your responsibility to keep your property in accordance with these standards. It is also your responsibility to make sure everyone who resides in your home understands and respects these rules and regulations.
2. While you may not always agree with your community leaders, it's your responsibility to treat everyone with honesty and respect.
3. You have a right to voice your opinion, but do so in a manner that benefits the community and helps make a positive difference. Voicing your opinion is essential, so you have a responsibility to vote in community elections and other issues.
4. If needed, it is your responsibility to contact association leaders and managers to discuss financial matters, including payment obligations and alternative arrangements.
5. It is also your responsibility to provide current contact information to association leaders so they can relate news and issues to you as quickly as possible.
6. If a decision made by the community association personally affects you, it is your responsibility to request reconsideration, but always do so in a respectful, constructive manner.

Understanding and respecting your responsibilities is essential to having a happy home and a happy community association!

Work with an Expert Community Association Attorney is always your best option. If you want more information on the rights and responsibilities of community association homeowners, or if you want to discuss a specific matter related to your association, call the office of PeytonBolin today. Contact us now!