How To Change Your HOA's Rules

Don’t like one of your HOA’s rules? Here’s how you can help change them.

Rules. Every homeowners association (HOA) has them. They’re meant to preserve the character of your neighborhood and your home’s value, as well as to reflect the wishes of your community’s residents.

But what happens when some of those rules no longer meet these goals? Then it may be time for a change. Changing your HOA’s rules can be a slow process, but it can be done. Here’s how.

1. Be prepared. Know your HOA’s rules, CC&Rs and other governing documents. Understand the protocol for requesting a rule change and fill out any appropriate paperwork.
2. Be practical. You may not get everything you want in a rule change, so be willing to compromise. Want to show your patriotism by painting your house as the stars & stripes? You may want to scale that back and ask to be able to fly the flag in your yard.
3. Be a petitioner. You’ll have better luck in changing a rule if you can show that the majority of homeowners support your suggestion. Talk with your neighbors, start a petition, encourage them to attend board meetings—the more support you have, the more likely you’ll be successful.
4. Be patient. HOA boards are made up of volunteers who typically meet once a month at most and sometimes much less. It will take time to review your request, research its implications to the HOA and its residents, and then make a decision.
5. Be part of the process.Don’t like the way the HOA is updating and evolving its rules to meet current standards? Then volunteer to be a board member. Members typically serve from one to three year terms.

This article contains general information. Individual situations are unique.

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