8 Frequent HOA Violations & Tips to Steer Clear of Them!
Living in an HOA-managed community comes with many perks like well-maintained surroundings, increased property value, and a sense of community pride.
Yet, in order to maintain those standards, homeowners can find themselves on the receiving end of a violation notice. The good news? Avoiding these common HOA slip-ups is simpler than you think!
Let’s dive into the most frequent HOA violations and explore practical tips to keep you in good standing with your HOA while enjoying your home to the fullest!
1️⃣ Exterior Modifications Without Approval
Dreaming of adding a new fence, swapping house colors, or installing lush landscaping? Great! But keep in mind: your HOA likely has guidelines for maintaining a uniform community aesthetic.
Making changes without proper approval is a common violation that could result in fines or even having to undo your hard work.
How to Avoid It:
✔️ Review the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) of your community to understand what’s allowed.
✔️ Submit modification requests to your HOA board or architectural control committee before starting.
✔️ Keep all communications and approvals on file for future reference.
2️⃣ Improper Lawn & Landscaping Maintenance
Picture a lawn that’s overgrown, and weeds are taking over. Everyone in the neighborhood cringes at the sight of it. That’s not the community aesthetic anyone wants to see or live next door to!
Yet, neglecting your landscaping doesn’t just affect curb appeal, it can also lead to HOA violations.
Community standards often require specific maintenance levels to keep the neighborhood looking pristine.
How to Avoid It:
✔️ Stay on top of routine lawn care and trimming.
✔️ Hire professional landscapers if needed.
✔️ Check HOA landscaping guidelines to ensure compliance.
3️⃣ Parking Violations
Parking is a hot topic in HOA communities!
Whether it’s leaving your car on the street, blocking fire hydrants, or parking in someone else’s spot, improper parking can quickly lead to complaints and violations.
Rules are in place to ensure safety and order, so it’s essential to know the do’s and don’ts.
How to Avoid It:
✔️ Familiarize yourself with your HOA’s parking rules.
✔️ Use designated spaces and ask guests to do the same.
✔️ Avoid restricted areas like fire lanes or unassigned spots.
4️⃣ Trash & Recycling Violations
Overflowing bins, trash cans left out for days, and bulk waste sitting curbside - none of these align with HOA standards.
But these rules aren’t just about appearances. They help prevent pest problems and ensure a clean environment for everyone.
How to Avoid It:
✔️ Put trash and recycling bins out only on collection days.
✔️ Store bins in approved areas when not in use.
✔️ Follow HOA guidelines for disposing of large or bulk items.
5️⃣ Noise Violations
Nobody wants to be “that neighbor”.
Loud music, barking dogs, or late-night gatherings can disrupt the peace and lead to noise complaints. HOAs set quiet hours and noise limits to maintain a harmonious atmosphere for all residents.
How to Avoid It:
✔️ Respect community quiet hours, especially at night.
✔️ Train pets to minimize disruptive barking.
✔️ Give neighbors a heads-up if you’re hosting an event.
6️⃣ Unapproved Rentals
Renting out your property might seem like a simple way to generate income, but in HOA communities, it’s not always straightforward.
Many HOAs have rules about short-term rentals or require approval before leasing your home. Violating these policies can lead to significant penalties.
How to Avoid It:
✔️ Understand your HOA’s rental restrictions.
✔️ Secure approval before leasing your property.
✔️ If rentals are allowed, educate tenants on HOA rules to ensure compliance.
7️⃣ Pet Violations
Pets are family, but even our furry friends need to follow the rules!
Issues like unleashed pets, excessive barking, and failure to clean up after them can lead to HOA violations and strained neighborly relations.
How to Avoid It:
✔️ Keep pets leashed in shared spaces.
✔️ Clean up after your pets promptly.
✔️ Know the HOA’s rules about pet breeds, sizes, and limits.
8️⃣ Signage Violations
Whether it’s a For Sale sign, a political banner, or an ad for your business, signage rules can be surprisingly strict.
HOAs often regulate the type, size, and placement of signs to maintain a cohesive neighborhood look.
How to Avoid It:
✔️ Review signage guidelines in your CC&Rs.
✔️ Seek HOA approval if required.
✔️ Follow rules on display durations.
A Little Effort Goes a Long Way
HOA rules aren’t meant to be a hassle - they’re designed to preserve property values and create a harmonious environment.
By staying proactive, reading your CC&Rs, and keeping open communication with your HOA, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and maintain great relationships with your neighbors.
At RowCal, we’re here to make HOA living stress-free. Whether you’re an HOA board member or a homeowner, our comprehensive management services help keep communities thriving.
Want to learn more about how we can help your HOA? Let’s chat! 💬