In Las Vegas, HOAs are commonplace. Because of that, there are also some common HOA rules you need to know.
In Las Vegas, there’s less of a chance you live in a house you own and run yourself than there is of it ever snowing on low ground. Because of the HOA rules in place, this can be either good or bad.
If you do want to live here, HOA rules are a language you need to learn. The benefits of living in an HOA outweigh the cons, but we’d be remiss to say they’re without downsides.
That said, most HOA rules can be considered constructive rather than restrictive. Also, being aware of them can be the first step to getting HOA approval.
The Most Common HOA Rules
Each Homeowners Association group has its own specific rules that are individual to them. Sometimes they cross over, but there’s no pattern to which association has which rules. All of that is down to the individual.
Some rules, however, you see time and again.
It’s these more common ones that we’re going to take a look at.
1. Occupancy Limitations
It goes without saying that a lot of Homeowners Associations have a limit on the number of occupants that can live inside of one home.
Congestion is a real problem, particularly in cities. By enforcing rules on how many people can live somewhere, you’re putting a stop to congestion before it becomes too big of a problem.
Most HOAs also assess each property as its own entity and judge limitations on size and square-footage. This keeps it fair.
2. Pet Ownership Regulations
Owning a pet is a huge part of the great cycle of life. A lot of families get a pet before they have children and, if not, they get one after.
HOAs get a bad rap for their strict regulations on pet ownership. As a homeowner, you need to implement at least some of their rules when it comes to pets.
Pets are allowed in the majority of HOA dwellings but don’t be afraid to establish a few rules here and there. Some of the more common pet-related rules include keeping your dog on a leash, ensuring all poop is scooped, and keeping a lid on noise.
3. Noise Limitations
Noise, in general, is frowned upon for most HOAs.
Urge your homeowners to keep a lid on noisy activities. For the most part, this is common decency to neighbors and other neighborhood homes. However, because some nights simply call for a birthday party, you can think about implementing “quiet hours”.
Having designated quiet hours may feel restrictive to some homeowners, but others will be grateful to be able to sleep and party.
After all, a symbiotic neighborhood is a happy one.
4. HOA Fees
While HOAs are considered community service, there are particular HOA services or costs that will come into play for homeowners.
These are known in the business as “dues”, and these dues are considered HOA rules that are commonplace throughout the country. Fees added to pay dues will help the HOA to improve and maintain the neighborhoods for the benefit of those living there and future residents.
These fees can be monthly or annual and are a key part in the maintenance of a good community.
5. Property and Grounds Maintenance
Homeowners who own properties in an HOA are required to do certain routine tasks. These tasks might include mowing the lawn or watering the plants.
This ensures the HOA is aesthetically pleasing for prospective buyers and renters. Of course, it’s also up to the homeowner to decide whether or not their home meets HOA standards.
In Conclusion …
Most HOA rules implemented across the board are a matter of common decency. The thing is that owners can forget if there are no HOA rules in place or written down to remind them.
HOA rules can provide structure to your community, whether you’re an owner or a tenant, and structure is always a costworthy benefit.