HOA Member Responsibilities: pay dues, follow CC&Rs, attend meetings

Last updated: August 25, 2025

New to an HOA? Focus on simple habits. Pay on time, follow posted rules, and keep your place tidy. Use meetings and messages to solve issues early. This guide explains hoa member responsibilities, why they exist, and easy ways to stay compliant without stress.

Answer key: Pay on time, follow CC&Rs, maintain your lot, respect parking and amenities, participate, communicate, and be a good neighbor.

TL;DR

• Autopay dues; save receipts and statements.
• Read CC&Rs; get ARC approval before exterior changes.
• Fix cited issues within 7–15 days unless your notice says otherwise.
• Follow parking and amenity rules—guests too.
• Attend the annual meeting and vote every year.

People also ask

• What happens if I pay HOA dues late?
• Do I need ARC approval for paint or fencing?
• Can an HOA tow my car?
• Why does quorum matter at HOA meetings?
• How do I dispute a violation?

Track your hoa member responsibilities

• Enable autopay and reminders; save receipts.
• Bookmark CC&Rs, bylaws, and rules.
• Walk your exterior monthly; photograph issues.
• Know guest parking and amenity limits.
• Add meeting dates to your calendar.

Quick Q: How often should I review rules?
Answer: At move-in, before any project, and yearly for updates.

1) Paying HOA dues and assessments

• Pay monthly/quarterly as scheduled; watch for special assessments.
• Update your mailing and email addresses.
• Ask early about payment plans if needed.

Quick Q: What if I can’t pay this month?
Answer: Contact the manager/board immediately; many offer plans if you ask early.

See also: Dues & assessments basics.

2) Complying with CC&Rs and community rules

• Read CC&Rs, bylaws, and rules. Save a local copy.
• Get ARC/ACC approval in writing before exterior work.
• Know noise, pet, trash, and sign rules.

Key claim: Before fines, owners typically get written notice and a chance to be heard.

Helpful: Find your governing documents.

Quick Q: Is email approval enough?
Answer: Yes if issued per policy. Keep the email or signed PDF on file.

3) Maintaining your property

• Mow, edge, and weed; trim trees and shrubs.
• Repair paint, fencing, roofs, and mailboxes when worn.
• Match approved colors/materials; photograph before/after.

Quick Q: How fast must I fix a cited issue?
Answer: Cure windows often run 7–15 days. Your letter will list the date.

4) Following parking regulations

• Check street, driveway, and guest-lot rules; note overnight limits.
• Don’t store RVs/boats/trailers unless allowed.
• Tell guests where they may park.

Quick Q: Can the HOA tow?
Answer: If rules and local law allow and notice/sign posting requirements are met.

5) Participating in HOA meetings and elections

• Attend the annual meeting; read the budget and reserve plan.
• Vote for directors; submit proxies/ballots on time.
• Volunteer for a committee if you can.

Quick Q: Do my votes matter?
Answer: Yes—quorum can fail without them, delaying budgets and projects.

Try: RunHOA e-Voting and the shared HOA calendar.

6) Respecting common areas and amenities

• Follow posted hours, guest limits, and reservation steps.
• Clean up after use; report damage or safety hazards.
• Supervise kids and pets per rules.

Quick Q: Can rules differ by amenity?
Answer: Yes—pools, gyms, and rooms often have separate rules.

7) Communicating with the HOA board

• Use official channels for requests and complaints.
• Keep messages short, factual, and polite. Attach photos.
• Track case numbers and response dates.

Quick Q: How long should I wait for a reply?
Answer: Many HOAs respond within 3–7 business days; ask for the policy.

See: Better HOA communications • Requests & work orders

8) Respecting your neighbors

• Keep noise down, especially late evenings and early mornings.
• Leash and clean up after pets; follow breed/number limits.
• Address small issues early and directly; be kind.

Quick Q: When should I involve the HOA?
Answer: If safety is at risk, rules are repeatedly ignored, or talks fail.

Key numbers

• Notice cure windows often run 7–15 days (see your letter).
• ARC reviews commonly take 1–4 weeks.
• Budgets, elections, and reports occur at least annually.
• Unpaid balances can trigger late fees and collections.

HowTo: Stay compliant each month

1. Open your portal; confirm balance and due date.
2. Skim new notices and any posted rule updates.
3. Walk your exterior; list quick fixes and schedule work.
4. Check amenity reservations and guest plans.
5. Add board/committee dates to your calendar.
6. File receipts, approvals, and photos in one folder.

Bonus: Use RunHOA Calendar and Docs to keep everything in one place.

HowTo: Dispute a violation (fast and polite)

1. Read the notice. Note the rule cited and cure date.
2. Gather proof: photos, receipts, approvals, or timelines.
3. Reply in writing before the deadline; ask for a hearing if needed.
4. Attend the hearing; stay factual and brief.
5. Agree on a cure plan or appeal per policy.

Learn more: Violation process • Message templates

FAQ

Can the HOA fine me without a hearing?
Many states and CC&Rs require notice and an opportunity to be heard. Check your documents and local law.

Do I need ARC approval for landscaping?
Often yes for trees, hardscape, or major changes. Simple plant swaps may be exempt—verify first.

What counts as “common area”?
Shared spaces like parks, pools, streetscapes, and clubhouses. The plat/map and CC&Rs define the boundaries.

Will a late fee hurt my credit?
Late HOA charges can be sent to collections. Ask your board/manager about reporting practices and payment plans.

How do I see where dues go?
Review the budget, financials, and reserve study. Ask for a summary and year-to-date reports.

Helpful RunHOA tools

• Stay current: Autopay, reminders, and clear ledgers in RunHOA Accounting.
• Stay organized and engaged: Docs, e-Voting & proxies, and a shared calendar.

Further reading

• Nolo — Understanding HOAs
• Community Associations Institute (CAI)
• CFPB — Debt collection basics
• HUD — Fair Housing Act resources