General Safety Rules of an HOA
A townhouse or condominium community is a shared living environment with rules set and enforced by a Homeowners Association, also known as an HOA. Made up of community members, the HOA is guided by a set of by-laws and restrictions developed in the best interests of all residents. According to the National Homeowners Association of America, it is "the duty of each association to provide home owners with quality and safe living." Thus, many HOAs establish rules for residents to follow that address safety issues throughout the community.
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Personal Responsibility
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Each owner is usually responsible for his own safety and that of other tenants or occupants of her home, including family members. This includes the installation and maintenance of smoke detectors, burglar alarms and other safety devices in the home.
Community Access/Traffic
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For communities with roads, parking garages and/or outdoor parking, the HOA will establish rules regarding speed limits, directional arrows and signage. In addition, for communities that are gated or restrict access into the building or community, rules are established regarding visitor identification and sign in.
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Common Areas
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According to sample covenants and restrictions available from the California Association of Homeowners Associations, an HOA generally maintains common areas to "ensure the safety of residents and visitors." Thus, the HOA will establish and enforce rules regarding repairs, loitering, behavior of children---even types and lighting of holiday decorations.
Neighborhood Watch
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HOAs often set up a neighborhood watch group and encourage owners to participate. Such groups observe activity within the community and report suspicious behavior to local law enforcement.
Pools
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If the community has a pool, it is common that the HOA establish safety rules regarding pool use while making it clear that all residents and visitors use the facilities at their own risk. Some of these rules address monitoring of children, use of alcohol and unbreakable beverage containers, safe conduct and safety equipment to be available in case of an emergency.
Pets
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HOA rules can cover behavior of pets and their owners and include rules about leash usage, pet confinement and pets around or in the pool. Some HOAs and their boards of directors may put in place rules that prohibit specific breeds of aggressive dogs from the property.
Firearms and Weapons
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Sample by-laws provided by CondoAssociation.com ban the use of "any firearms, air rifles, pellet guns, B-B-guns, bows and arrows" by owners, residents, guests and family members. To ensure the safety of everyone within the community, an HOA may also restrict use of illegal fireworks and other dangerous weapons.
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