Board of Directors (Board)

Elected homeowners who govern the HOA, make decisions on behalf of the community, and enforce governing documents.

Assessment (Dues)

Regular payments made by homeowners to the association to cover operating expenses, maintenance, and reserves.

Bylaws

The rules that outline how the HOA operates, including board structure, elections, and meeting procedures.

CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions)

The governing legal documents that outline property use, restrictions, and homeowner obligations within the community.

Common Area or Greenspace

Property or spaces owned collectively by the HOA for use by all residents (e.g., clubhouse, pool, landscaping, parking lots).

Delinquency

Failure of a homeowner to pay HOA assessments or fines by the due date.

Easement

A legal right for someone to use a portion of property for a specific purpose (e.g., utility access).

Fiduciary Duty

The legal obligation of board members to act in the best interest of the HOA and its members.

Fine

A monetary penalty assessed to a homeowner for violating HOA rules or CC&Rs.

Governing Documents

The collection of documents that establish and regulate the HOA, typically including the Articles of Incorporation, CC&Rs, Bylaws, and Rules & Regulations.

Lien

A legal claim placed on a homeowner’s property for unpaid HOA assessments or fines, which can lead to foreclosure if unresolved.

Proxy

A written authorization allowing one person to vote on behalf of another at an HOA meeting.

Quorum

The minimum number of members or board members required to be present at a meeting to conduct official business.

Reserve Fund

A savings account maintained by the HOA to pay for future major repairs or replacements (e.g., roofs, roads, pools).

Rules & Regulations

Day-to-day guidelines adopted by the board to supplement CC&Rs, covering community standards (e.g., parking, pets, noise).

Special Assessment

An additional charge levied on homeowners to cover unexpected or large expenses not covered by regular dues.

Violation

A breach of HOA governing documents or rules by a homeowner or resident.