HOA Glossary
The terms every board member and homeowner eventually runs into — defined in plain English, without the legalese. For the systems side of running a community, see the HOA management software guide and the self-managed HOA playbook.
- HOA (Homeowners Association)
- A private organization that governs a residential community, maintains common areas, and enforces shared rules. Membership is typically mandatory for owners in the community.
- CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions)
- The recorded legal document that sets the rules owners agree to by buying in the community — use restrictions, architectural standards, and assessment obligations. An AI document assistant is useful here because boards and residents constantly need to look up specific CC&R clauses.
- Bylaws
- The document governing how the HOA operates as an organization: board structure, elections, meeting and quorum rules, and officer duties. Distinct from the CC&Rs, which govern the property and owners.
- Reserve Study
- A professional assessment of major common-area components (roofs, roads, pools) and their remaining life, used to plan how much the HOA must save for future repairs and replacements.
- Special Assessment
- A one-time charge to owners, beyond regular dues, to fund a large or unexpected expense not covered by reserves.
- Quorum
- The minimum number of members or directors who must be present for a meeting's votes and decisions to be valid.
- Proxy
- A written authorization letting one member vote on another's behalf, often used to reach quorum at member meetings.
- Fiduciary Duty
- The legal obligation of board members to act in good faith and in the best interest of the association rather than their own.
- Architectural Review (ARC)
- The process by which owners get approval for exterior changes so they meet the standards set in the CC&Rs.
- Assessment / Dues
- The recurring fees owners pay to fund the HOA's operating budget and reserves.
- Lien
- A legal claim the HOA can place on a property for unpaid assessments, which can affect sale or refinancing.
- Self-Managed HOA
- An HOA operated directly by its volunteer board rather than a hired professional management company. See the self-managed HOA playbook.