In HOA-managed neighborhoods, the success and harmony of the community often depend on a group of volunteers working behind the scenes, your HOA Board. These elected residents are more than just names on a ballot; they are the individuals responsible for making key decisions, enforcing policies, managing finances, and ensuring the overall well-being of your community.
Whether you’re a new homeowner or considering running for a position yourself, understanding the HOA board roles, responsibilities, and duties can give you a clearer picture of how your neighborhood operates, and how you can get involved.
What Is an HOA Board and Who Serves on It?
An HOA (Homeowners Association) board is a governing body made up of elected homeowners from within the community. These board members are volunteers who commit their time to serve the association’s needs and act in the best interest of the neighborhood.
Common HOA Board Positions:
- President: Leads meetings, oversees board actions, and represents the HOA in legal matters and contract signings.
- Vice President: Supports the president and assumes their duties when they are unavailable.
- Secretary: Maintains records, meeting minutes, and ensures compliance with document retention laws.
- Treasurer: Manages finances, including budgeting, dues collection, and financial reporting.
Most Texas HOAs are required to have at least three board members, though the specific number may be outlined in the association’s bylaws.
Key Responsibilities of the HOA Board
While responsibilities can vary based on the community’s size, needs, and governing documents, most boards share the following core duties:
- Maintaining Community Spaces
- HOA board members coordinate maintenance of shared areas such as parks, pools, walking trails, and clubhouses. This includes hiring vendors for landscaping, repairs, and general upkeep.
- Enforcing Rules and Regulations
- The board enforces the HOA’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs), ensuring homeowners follow community standards on things like lawn care, home exteriors, and pet policies. Violations are typically addressed through notices or fines.
- Managing HOA Finances
- Boards are responsible for setting annual budgets, collecting dues, and ensuring that funds are properly allocated for operational expenses and reserves. The treasurer often plays a key role in this process, but the entire board reviews and approves financial decisions.
- Communicating with Homeowners
- From community updates to annual meetings, board members must keep residents informed and involved. Transparency builds trust and encourages homeowner engagement.
Fiduciary Duties and Legal Obligations
Serving on the board means taking on a fiduciary duty, a legal responsibility to act in the best interest of the HOA as a whole. These duties are typically broken down into three categories:
- Duty of Care: Make informed decisions based on research, expert advice, and community input.
- Duty of Loyalty: Prioritize the community’s needs over personal interests. Disclose and avoid conflicts of interest.
- Duty to Act Within Authority: Follow federal, state, and local laws, as well as the HOA’s governing documents – when making decisions.
Texas law also outlines specific guidelines for board eligibility and term lengths, as well as processes for board member removal or resignation. For example, board members cannot have recent felony convictions involving moral turpitude and must comply with certain conflict-of-interest regulations.
Why HOA Boards Matter
Your HOA board plays a critical role in shaping the experience of living in a managed community. From maintaining property values to fostering a sense of community and safety, their work ensures that neighborhoods remain desirable and well-kept.
Understanding the HOA board duties, roles, and responsibilities not only helps residents appreciate the effort behind daily operations, it also empowers more homeowners to get involved and contribute to their community’s future.
If your Houston-area HOA needs expert guidance or support, Creative Management is here to help. Our experienced team provides tailored HOA management services to keep your community running smoothly year-round.
Need help managing your HOA? Contact us today to learn how Creative Management can support your board and residents.