Is your family thinking of moving into a community which has a homeowners association? Or maybe you live in such a neighborhood. HOA rules and standards are set up to protect your property value and your quality of life. Here’s a simple list of terms to help you get acquainted with living in an HOA.
AN HOA GLOSSARY
ACC/ARC/MOD Committees & Forms Architectural Control Committee, Architectural Review Committee, Modifications Committee. These named forms are to be used when submitting plans and applications for the construction or modification of improvements within the property.
Association – This refers to the Owners Association in which each owner of record is a member of an existing Texas not-for-profit corporation.
CC&R’s – Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions are established protective standards, restrictions, and obligations in areas ranging from architectural control to prohibitions on various activities in order to promote harmonious living.
Declarant/Developer – Governing body that is in control of the Association until transition when the owners are in control of the decisions as they relate to the Community. Refers to the developer and any of its successors which are designated “Declarant” by the previous Declarant, in a recorded amendment to the declaration.
Easement – Right granted by one property owner to another entity to allow access to a dedicated area.
Fine – A monetary charge issued to an owner’s account when the violation process has been exhausted in accordance with governing documents.
Inoperable Vehicle – Vehicle with flat tire(s), on blocks, with expired registrations and/or inspection stickers.
Property Owner – Developer, builder or owner of record who holds the recorded title to a piece of property or lot.
Self Help Notice – Notification to advise the owner that the Association will be taking necessary action at the expense of the owner in complying with a violation.
Survey Plat/Plot Plan – Certified drawing indicating the location of the home within the property lines, including the fence line boundaries.
Modification – Alteration, change, remodel, restoration, addition or renovation to any building, structure, fence, wall, landscaping or improvement project of any kind.
Violation – Non-compliance with the Community’s standards as dictated by the governing documents and guidelines, (i.e. not maintaining lawn or landscaping).
