Are you trying to understand HOA maintenance responsibilities? Many homeowners who own property that’s part of an HOA (Homeowners’ Association) find it challenging to understand the various guidelines and role expectations. HOAs and homeowners have different sets of obligations regarding the maintenance, repair, and replacement of elements and areas within the community.
So, let’s take a closer look at the responsibilities and what’s involved in keeping up with the maintenance of properties that are part of an HOA.
HOA communities have three specific areas.
1. Separate Interests
First of all, separate interests are the homeowners’ units. Also, the space included in the delineation depends on the type of property. For condominiums, it consists of the airspace between any unfinished walls, ceilings, and floors of each condo, so it covers wall paint, hardwood floors, etc. Concerning townhomes, the term identifies the condo unit and the land on which the condo sits. For single-family properties in an HOA community, the separate interest encompasses the building, the land, and any other buildings or structures on the land.
2. Common Areas
Secondly, common areas are the parts that the community members share. Therefore, each HOA member has undivided, equal interest and responsibility for the common areas, including:
- Lobby in a building
- Pools, tennis courts, playgrounds, and other areas the entire community is welcome to enjoy
- Community buildings or rooms
- Condo building roof
- Community landscaping
3. Limited Common Areas
Finally, limited common areas are sometimes identified as “exclusive use common areas” or “restricted common areas.” They are the spaces located outside of the boundaries of separate interest areas. Typically, only one or a few of the HOA community members use the space. Examples of limited common areas include:
- Condo balconies
- Telephone wiring in a condominium building
- Door frames and screen doors
- Fences shared by two yards or more
HOA Maintenance Responsibilities within These 3 Areas
HOAs have guidelines to ensure the responsible parties handle maintenance matters right away to keep the entire HOA property looking its best. While certain states have laws dictating the common areas for which the HOA is responsible, not all do. Typically, the responsibilities are clear cut, depending on the space that requires the maintenance:
Unless there is an HOA guideline that states otherwise, each unit or separate interest owner is responsible for repairs, replacements, and maintenance of the unit.
The HOA is responsible for all repairs, replacements, and maintenance for common areas.
When it comes to the exclusive or limited common areas, the owner of the unit that uses the exclusive common area will be responsible for maintenance, while the HOA is responsible for repairs and replacements.
Let Fireside Properties Provide Your HOA Management
So, if you are looking for a team that can expertly handle the professional management services for your HOA, Fireside Properties, Inc. is here to help. We make sure everyone who is part of the HOA understands their roles and responsibilities. Plus, we are specialists in community conflict resolution. We know what it takes to make your HOA as successful as possible. Connect with us today to learn more about HOA maintenance responsibilities.