California Home Owner Association Law

An overview of the California Homeowners Association Law.

The California Corporation's code, State of California Business and Professions Code, and the California Civil Code are among the several that govern the California Homeowners Associations. Other basic rules apply based on federal laws concerning safety, parking and satellite dishes.

CC&Rs/Bylaws

Associations have conditions, restrictions and bylaws.

Community Codes and Regulations (CC&Rs) help the Association form rules and regulations of how the Association will be governed and what measures it will assume in the event of a disaster, whether it be a mudslide or a fire. The CC&Rs are recorded with the County Recorder along with the title when the property is sold. This document unites the homeowners and ensures that even if the property is sold to a new resident, the rules and regulations will continue to be followed accordingly. The Bylaws work as an extension of the rules and regulations within the CC&Rs.

Membership

Associations enjoy several membership benefits and services.

The California Association of Homeowners Associations provides several services for each association under membership, such as extensive review of records and documents. In doing so, they will make any necessary recommendations for improvement. Upon specific request, minutes of meetings, financial studies and an annual disclosure report will be provided. Free consultation may be included depending on the matter requested for review.

Costs

Utilities, parking and maintenance are important for associations.

Community Associations cost money to run properly. For instance, there is the cost of insurance for any major disasters that may occur. There are costs for the utilities management uses, such as trash and sewage. Some associations have park(s) within their community that may need to be maintained via gardeners and/or other maintenance workers. Some associations provide security for the community, either safety or parking. Whatever the unique amenities included within the community, there will generally be a need for upkeep and security.

Legal Issues

Legal counsel and solutions are provided to associations.

The California Association of Homeowners Associations understands that legal issues are bound to surface, and needing legal counsel is inevitable. Affordable legal advice is provided to associations to assist certain matters involving CC&Rs, Bylaws, Rules and Regulations or even, under such circumstances, the collection of association dues. Legal advice is essential when resolving complex homeowner problems, dealing with vendors and insurance claims.

Financial Services

Accounting, budgeting and reports are crucial for a successful association.

The California Association recognizes that thorough bookkeeping and adequate financial resources are crucial to any successful business or organization. Financial consulting is available for associations, along with handling accounts receivable, budget maintenance, cash flow reports and analysis studies to help associations self-manage themselves.

References

• California Association of Homeowners Associations, Inc: Overview