Renting a home or condo in a community with a homeowners
association can have its own set of rules for care and behavior. An HOA can
protect the rights of homeowners and renters, but there’s also a standard set
of responsibilities that the renter and the homeowner share that should be
reviewed and followed.
If you are renting in a multifamily condominium development,
it’s worth spending time reviewing the HOA guidelines so you don’t run afoul of
them or incur fines unexpectedly.
What’s covered in
your HOA: Some homeowners associations include utilities, cable, lawn care
and other costs in their fees. This may save you money or help to decrease your
bills.
Parking: Many
multifamily developments offer assigned parking, and your owner will request
your car’s license plate information for the HOA or security. If you allow
guests to park in your space, you should notify the HOA.
If you are renting a home in a neighborhood with an HOA,
there will be different parking rules about street and driveway parking, and
the length of time that cars are allowed.
HOA violations:
Ask who is notified in the case of a violation. Is your owner/ landlord
contacted or the renter when there’s an issue? How will fines be paid if
there’s a violation?
Read your lease and ask questions about how issues like this
will be handled.