Guides
HOA guides
How homeowners associations work, what your documents mean, and how to deal with fines, assessments, records, and the board. Each guide lists its sources, and we point to state law where it matters.
HOA basics
What is an HOA, and what can it actually do?
How homeowners associations are created, what powers they get from the declaration and state law, and where those powers stop.
Read the guide →How to read your HOA documents
Declaration, bylaws, articles, and rules: what each document does, which one wins when they conflict, and the sections worth reading first.
Read the guide →Your rights
How to request HOA records (and what to do if they stall)
Which HOA records owners can see, deadlines in Florida, California, Texas, and Arizona, what can be withheld, and how to follow up.
Read the guide →How to fight an HOA fine
Read the notice, check the rule and your state's hearing requirements, respond in writing, and prepare for the hearing. With Florida, California, and Texas rules.
Read the guide →Resolving HOA disputes: from a letter to mediation
The usual path for HOA disputes: talk, write, internal dispute resolution, state offices, mediation, and when to call a lawyer. With California's IDR rules.
Read the guide →Money
HOA special assessments, explained
Why associations levy special assessments, how your share is calculated, what approval may be required, and how to plan for one.
Read the guide →HOA reserve studies: what they are and how to read one
What a reserve study measures, how often California requires one, what 'percent funded' means, and the warning signs to look for.
Read the guide →HOA dues, late fees, and liens: what happens if you fall behind
How HOA assessments are collected, what late fees and liens mean, state limits in Florida and California, and what to do if you can't pay.
Read the guide →