What Do HOA Rules Cover for a Townhome?

Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) help maintain the quality of life in a community and the value of its homes. They may enforce rules determining where residents can park, fencing heights, yard decorations, or a home’s exterior appearance. In townhome communities, HOAs also make sure community amenities are maintained and the property remains clean. Here are some standard HOA rules for townhomes for rent:

Exterior Appearance

A townhome HOA usually maintains the exterior appearance of all properties in the community, including paint and landscaping. It also has guidelines for front and backyard maintenance, such as rules for planting gardens or altering the ground cover. Decoration restrictions may limit seasonal flags, signage, and decorations visible from the outside. HOAs also approve and fund specific modifications to exterior structures, such as windows, patios, and fences. These guidelines help homes look consistent and well-maintained as renters come and go.

Property Maintenance

Leading townhomes for rent maintain the community’s property, including repairing and replacing roofs, sidewalks, and roads. They also make sure that common areas, such as shared gardens, parking areas, and walkways, remain clean and functional. If any of these spaces are damaged, the HOA is responsible for scheduling repairs.

The associations also repair units’ shared walls, roofs, and utilities. HOAs can also schedule communitywide renovations to improve and maintain the appearance of buildings and other structures. Renters usually pay monthly HOA fees to cover these maintenance costs.

Parking and Vehicles

Many homeowners’ associations have rules governing parking restrictions for residents and guests. Depending on the property, most renters are provided with designated parking spaces for one, two, or more vehicles. Two—and three-bedroom properties may have street parking in addition to private garages.

Some HOAs also restrict the type of vehicle you can park within the property. They may prohibit RVs, boats, and trailers from parking in visible areas. Others require prior notification before parking these vehicles within the community.

Noise and Conduct

HOA rules usually feature policies that address unsafe or disruptive behavior. Some properties designate quiet hours that aim to limit noise during specific times. Other HOAs set a maximum decibel limit within the community. If you have a party, family gathering, or social event, inform all guests about the noise and conduct rules to avoid complaints from neighbors.

Pets and Community

Leading HOAs allow various pets within their communities, including dogs, cats, birds, and reptiles. Restrictions might limit the number, size, and breed of pets allowed. Many communities also have rules for leashing pets in common areas and cleaning up after them to keep the property clean. Community rules cover codes of conduct for using community facilities, such as pools, gyms, clubhouses, and grills. HOAs also feature guidelines for hosting events in shared spaces.

Dues and Leases

Most leasing contracts outline renters’ required HOA fees or dues, which may be paid monthly or annually. They detail penalties for non-compliance with financial obligations and grace periods for late payments. Contracts also explain rules about subleasing, lease termination, and tenant screening requirements.

Enforcement and Penalties

Failing to comply with HOA rules usually results in fines, penalties, and contract termination if warranted. You must accept the tenancy rules and regulations when signing a rental lease. Many HOAs also have provisions for resolving disputes among homeowners or between homeowners and the association. Before signing, review your contract’s covenants, conditions, and restrictions to learn about the rules, enforcements, and penalties.

Find Townhomes For Rent Today

HOA rules and restrictions help create a sustainable community of friendly neighbors. The terms also provide a structure for repairs, dispute resolution, and payments. Speak to a property management company today to learn more about the rules used to manage townhomes for rent.