Most homeowners association boards are made up of volunteers from the community. Chances are, not all members have the same background or level of experience necessary to manage the HOA. Plus, they may have differing approaches and values to management.

No boards are the same and each one is meant to bring great value to their individual communities. Without formal training, they have a hard time keeping everything organised and ensuring that they thrive and survive. None of those are valid excuses for allowing problems to arise and worsen though.

What happens when your HOA has problems?

When problems are allowed to persist by an HOA board, they will only escalate into bigger issues. Complaints will increase along with issues in miscommunication and financing. Lawsuits might even come up when homeowner association problems aren’t resolved.

You don’t want to be in a situation where no one is willing to volunteer, right? That’s why you need to acknowledge common concerns and know the best ways to address them. Bear in mind that issues may vary from one association to another though.

Legislative changes

You must realise that any changes in the law is going to affect the way an HOA must manage a community. Learn which bills or policies are related to homeowners associations and stay updated on any changes. Consult an attorney to better understand how the board has to adjust.

Board fatigue

Many boards are exhausted from the challenges wrought by the pandemic. Some members may have resigned while others have mentally signed out. Combat board fatigue by reducing the time spent on meetings, using virtual platforms, and hiring an HOA manager.

Cybersecurity concerns

Phishing, ransomware, and hacking attacks are becoming more common these days. As a homeowners association, you have to prepare yourself to deal with these types of scams. Warn your members not to click on suspicious links and teach them to identify phishing schemes.

Neighbour disputes

Due to the effects of quarantine protocols, people are feeling more irritable and tired. Realise that you don’t need to be involved all the time though. Determine when you may let neighbours settle things amongst themselves or when the board needs to intervene.

Technological advancements

All HOAs must maximise whichever virtual platforms, software, and other innovations come out to become more efficient in managing the community. There’s been increasing interest in renewable energy so consider installing solar panels and cater to electric vehicle users, as well. Come up with policies for a more inclusive community.

Generation gap

Many from generation Y and Z are becoming homeowners and tenants in HOA communities, meaning you’ll start seeing them in boards too. New ideas for management will be introduced but they may cause some friction. Compromise and collaboration are essential for a smoother management experience.

Financial woes

Every community association goes through some form of financial issue, be it preparing a budget or collecting rental dues. Considering how important money is, the board must never slack in any aspect. Getting help from third parties like collection agencies or remote accountants is a good idea.

Inadequate maintenance

The HOA board is responsible for ensuring that all common areas receive proper maintenance and care. Oversight in maintenance leads to overgrown vegetation, algae, moulds, pests, and other things that cause harm to the residents as well to property values.

Abuse of power

Sometimes, a rogue board member may think that their authority and power are boundless. In this case, it’s your duty to keep them in check and avoid any questionable incidents from happening. Urge homeowners to voice their complaints and the board to fulfil their duties.

Inconsistent enforcement

It’s important for the board to enforce or implement the rules with equality and consistency. You want to be strict in following your governing bylaws and documents and discourage people from breaking the rules for their interest. By avoiding favouritism, residents will be happier with the board.

Unjustified fines

Normally, when someone violates a covenant or rule, a person is imposed a fine. There are some cases when you aren’t allowed fines as much as you might want to. Always refer back to your governing documents when it’s appropriate to charge fines or impose any other penalties.

Complaint handling

As tempting as it might be to disregard complaints especially about minor things, you have to learn to address them properly. Establish a clear process for filing complaints, be it through email, phone call, web form, app, or onsite manager. Communicate this process to all residents and board members.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, both homeowners and the board want the same thing: a community where everyone feels safe and comfortable. Therefore, make it your main goal for everyone to work together in achieving that. Hiring an HOA manager is a smart move to make this easier on all parties involved.

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