With the cooler temps, what better time to get together for community activities? There is much to do during the spring and fall months, no matter where you live. Let us talk about some fun events HOA Boards could offer in your community this fall and, most importantly, how to execute them effectively!  Successful HOA events all come down to planning. The more you plan, the better your event will be executed.   Read the article…………………………….

Arizona is home to thousands of community associations, each serving as the backbone of its respective neighborhood. These HOAs/condos, comprised of dedicated volunteer boards, are viewed by courts, the IRS, and vendors as business enterprises. Their primary mission is to maintain, protect, preserve, and enhance the community’s assets—often valued in the millions of dollars. At the head of this enterprise is the board president, a role comparable to that of a CEO.     Read the article…………………………….

Reviewing your HOA’s financial statements isn’t just a best practice—it’s essential for protecting your community’s long-term stability. Whether you’re a seasoned board member or new to HOA leadership, knowing what to look for in your financial reports can help you spot trends, catch inconsistencies, and confidently make informed decisions.    Read the article…………………………….

HOA Board of Directors Duties – Who are they, and what do they do? Generally, an HOA Board of Directors comprises community volunteers elected by fellow residents to serve on the Board and make decisions on the residents’ behalf regarding the HOA.   Read the article…………………………….

Gaining insights from seasoned experts, this article sheds light on crucial considerations for prospective buyers in homeowners associations (HOAs). Without complexity, it focuses squarely on what matters most: understanding bylaws, financials, and community dynamics. This guidance serves as a crucial tool for making informed decisions in the intricate world of HOAs. Read the article…………………………….

Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs) play a pivotal role in maintaining community standards and property values within Arizona neighborhoods. However, disputes between homeowners and HOAs can arise, leading to potential conflicts. Understanding the avenues for resolving these HOA disputes is crucial for maintaining harmony and protecting your rights as a homeowner.   Read the article…………………………….

Despite significant investment in turf reduction measures, the Scottsdale, Ariz., townhome community of Heritage Village IV continued to experience exorbitant water bills and rivers of misdirected water.  In March 2024, the community’s homeowners’ association (HOA) called in Phoenix-based irrigation contractor Ralph M. Holt, CLIA, CLWM, to investigate.   Read the article…………………………….

HOA fees and special assessments are key financial components for homeowners in HOA-managed communities. These payments ensure the upkeep of shared amenities, maintain property values, and cover unexpected expenses, fostering a thriving community environment. Understanding these fees is essential for homeowners to stay informed and compliant.   Read the article…………………………….

The 2025 Arizona Legislature is in session and it is going to be a BIG year for HOA and condo bills! Set forth below is a quick summary of the pending bills. All the bills below apply to planned communities and condominiums unless otherwise indicated.    Read the article…………………………….

HOA selective enforcement involves enforcing some rules more strictly than others or targeting specific homeowners while ignoring others’ violations. This can lead to unfairness and loss of credibility, ultimately undermining homeowners’ trust and confidence in their HOA. Consistent enforcement of the governing documents, including CC&Rs and design guidelines, is essential for building trust and ensuring compliance.    Read the article…………………………….

An HOA estoppel is a vital document in real estate transactions, outlining fees, debts, and compliance issues to protect both buyers and sellers during the closing process   Read the article…………………………….

Whether you are a homeowner living in an HOA, a recently elected Board member, or an aspiring Community Manager, it is important to understand the differences between the multiple governing documents, the HOA Bylaws, CC&Rs, and Rules & Regulations, by which an HOA operates. If you are a homeowner, for example, becoming familiar with your community’s rules, knowing what is and isn’t permitted concerning your home, and knowing where and how to find this information will prevent you from having to deal with the consequences of non-compliance, which in most cases, can include fines and other types of penalties.    Read the article…………………………….

Homeowners Associations (HOAs) comprise a Board of Directors responsible for managing the community. A key component of effectively managing a community is the regular meetings of the Board of Directors. These meetings are vital for the success of a community since they provide a platform for discussion and decisions that shape the community’s future. An HOA management company can assist with Board meetings by providing experienced staff and resources to help the Board prepare and conduct meetings.   Read the article…………………………….

In Arizona, homeowner associations are governed by a multitude of laws including state statutes for planned communities and condominiums, the Arizona Nonprofit Corporation Act and federal laws and regulations. Many associations in Arizona have governing documents that were drafted before certain of these laws were enacted and thus, may contain provisions that are unenforceable or conflict with current law.   Read the article…………………………….

As an HOA Board member, your commitment plays a crucial role in managing your community. Understanding and overseeing the HOA’s insurance policies are fundamental aspects of this responsibility. This guide builds a solid foundation in HOA insurance, empowering you to make informed decisions about your community’s coverage.     Read the article…………………………….

HOA elections are vital to community governance, allowing homeowners to choose representatives to serve on the HOA Board. These elections typically occur at the Annual Meeting, where homeowners vote for candidates through physical or electronic ballots. The Board members selected will be responsible for managing the community, including tasks like budget planning, maintenance management, and covenant enforcement. The governing documents dictate the number of positions up for election.     Read the article…………………………….

Whether by voting, attending a campaign rally or simply talking with their neighbors, Arizonans across the state are making their voices heard.  Another popular method to support a candidate is through putting up a yard sign outside a home. Yard signs are a great way for voters to show support for their candidate or cause and get the word out on the election.  There are policies, however, that govern when and where signs can be placed outside a home.   Read the article…………………………….

HOA reserves play a crucial role in maintaining the financial health and stability of homeowners associations in Arizona. These funds are set aside to cover future repair and replacement costs of community assets, ensuring that unexpected expenses don’t burden homeowners with sudden, hefty assessments. Proper management of HOA reserves is essential for preserving property values and maintaining the quality of life within the community.   Read the article…………………………….

The holiday season is one of the most exciting times of the year, with many people gathering with friends and family and decorating for upcoming celebrations. With all the merriment that’s sure to ensue, it’s also important to be considerate of your neighbors, and take note of your Association’s rules and guidelines governed under both Rules & Regulations and Architecture and Landscape.   Read the article…………………………….

In Arizona, the vast majority of community associations are formed as either Condominiums, which are subject to the Arizona Condominium Act (A.R.S. Section 33-1201, et seq.); or, Planned Communities, which are subject to the Arizona Planned Communities Act (A.R.S. Section 33-1801, et seq.). In many communities, the distinction is clear. However, there are some cases where the classification of Condominium v. Planned Community is less obvious (e.g. townhouses).   Read the article…………………………….

Living in a community governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA) offers numerous benefits, from maintaining common areas to ensuring property values remain high. However, disputes within HOAs are not uncommon. Whether it’s disagreements between neighbors, conflicts with the HOA board, or issues regarding rule enforcement, disputes can disrupt the harmony of a community and lead to significant stress for all parties involved.     Read the article…………………………….

Associations should be working on their 2025 budgets! There are several things for Associations to consider when starting the budgeting process, especially if there have been significant changes in the community or if the community has undergone financial hardship.  Read the article…………………………….

Water conservation has long been a hot topic in Arizona (pun intended), including efforts to reduce the amount of water used to maintain lawns and landscaping. According to Tim Smedley in his book, The Last Drop, lawns are the largest irrigated ‘crop’ in the United States. Yet when you drive around the Valley, there is an astonishing amount of plush, green lawns.   Read the article…………………………….

HOA landscaping rules are designed to maintain the visual harmony and property values within a community. These rules set standards for how homeowners can maintain their lawns, gardens, and other outdoor spaces. Whether it’s guidelines on personal gardens, restrictions on certain types of furniture, or rules about tree removal, understanding these landscaping requirements is essential for any homeowner living in an HOA-governed community.   Read the article…………………………….

Until now, Nevada applied the law of the case doctrine only to appellate cases. The Supreme Court has now applied it to matters pending in district court, creating potential difficulties for clients approaching trial.  Litchfield v. Tucson Ridge Homeowners Association concerned two homeowners’ claims against their HOA. The HOA moved to dismiss, citing a Nevada statute it asserted required the homeowners to first mediate before they could file a complaint. The district court denied the motion    Read the article…………………………….

Homeowners Associations (HOAs) often impose rental restrictions to maintain the community’s integrity and preserve property values. If you’re a property owner or a prospective buyer in Phoenix, Arizona, understanding these restrictions is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid potential legal challenges.   Read the article…………………………….

This year’s Arizona legislative session adjourned on June 15, 2024. The general effective date for new laws is September 14, 2024. Summaries for the new and/or amended statutes that impact planned communities and condominiums are below and the full text of the statutes can be found at www.azleg.gov. Updated copies of the Arizona Condominium Act and Arizona Planned Communities Act are available to view and download on our website under the G|S Resources tab.    Read the article…………………………….

A majority of the board can vote to amend the CC&Rs without a vote of the membership to remove unlawful provisions in the CC&Rs which violate fair housing laws. “Unlawful restriction” means a prohibition, restriction, covenant or condition in a document that interferes with or restricts the transfer, use or occupancy of real property on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, familial status or disability in violation of state or federal law.    Read the article…………………………….

Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs) play a significant role in maintaining order and enhancing property values within communities. However, there may be instances when you find yourself disagreeing with an HOA decision that affects your property or your rights as a homeowner. In such situations, understanding Arizona HOA law and knowing when and how to seek legal action can be crucial.    Read the article…………………………….

Homeownership in a community governed by a Homeowners’ Association (HOA) brings both benefits and responsibilities. Understanding the regulations that come with living in an HOA is crucial to maintaining a harmonious living environment. In Arizona, Degnan Law Group is here to guide you through the intricacies of HOA regulations, ensuring you know your rights and limitations.   Read the article…………………………….

Your community pools are likely very busy right now as residents attempt to beat the heat! Pools can be an attractive, albeit expensive, amenity for potential owners, especially in warmer climates like we have here in Arizona. It is important for communities to manage and maintain their pools in good condition so that owners can continue to enjoy the amenities they anticipate when they purchase within the community.   Read the article…………………………….

Last year, the Arizona State Legislature passed HB2298, now A.R.S. Section 33-1818, which applies to planned communities with public roadways. Now planned communities are faced with figuring out whether they need to worry about this new law.  The first step is determining whether this law applies to your planned community. A.R.S. 33-1818 only applies to planned communities that meet all of the following criteria:     Read the article…………………………….

Our firm has received several questions regarding recent changes in Phoenix and Tucson Law which expand the options for owners to build Alternative or Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) or casitas on their lots. An ADU is an independent housing unit that shares a lot with a primary residence. ADUs typically have their own separate living space, kitchen area, and external entrance. They can be attached or detached from the primary dwelling and are often praised as a solution to address shortages for affordable housing as the costs to rent or purchase a home have increased across the country.    Read the article…………………………….

In the world of Homeowners Associations (HOAs), managing reserve funds effectively is crucial for maintaining property values and ensuring the community’s long-term financial health. A question that often arises is: Can HOAs invest their reserve funds? The answer isn’t straightforward, but understanding the nuances can help HOA boards make informed decisions.  Read the article…………………………….

Have you ever wondered why effective condo association management is crucial?  It ensures that everything runs smoothly in your community. Proper management handles finances, maintenance, and regulations. It keeps the property value high and residents happy. Don’t underestimate its importance.  Learn more and see how you can enjoy top-notch condo association management today!    Read the article…………………………….

The Arizona Legislature passed seven bills, which Governor Hobbs then signed, that have a direct impact on the community association industry.  House Bill 2648, House Bill 2662, House Bill 2698, Senate Bill 1432, Senate Bill 1016, House Bill 2141, and House Bill 2119 will become law on September 14, 2024, which is 90 days after the adjournment of the legislature. Below is an overview of these four new laws.     Read the article…………………………….

As many of Arizona’s community associations may know, Arizona law provides that community associations may not prohibit the display of certain flags. The applicable statutes are A.R.S. § 33-1808(A) and (B) for planned communities, and A.R.S. § 33-1261(A) and (B) for condominiums.   Read the article…………………………….

With Arizona’s 2024 Legislative session in full swing, we review twenty-four bills that include proposed amendments or additions to Arizona’s Planned Communities Statutes and Condominium Act. At Carpenter, Hazlewood, Delgado & Bolen, we strive to provide the community association industry the most recent updates to the Arizona Legislative session and the bills that may affect community association operations.    Read the article…………………………….

Many condominium associations are finding that insurance premiums for their buildings are drastically increasing or that the insurance carriers are not offering to write any insurance coverage, regardless of cost. There are numerous reasons why insurance premiums have increased such as natural disasters around the country, insurers pulling out of the market leaving less competition, and inflation.   Read the article…………………………….

There are several legislative changes from the Arizona Legislature in 2024 that could potentially affect your HOA or Condominium Association. Click the link below to read our summary of these changes.    Legislative Changes 2024………….

Two of HOAleader.com’s expert community managers say they’re seeing a notable spike in recall elections.  Is it possible these two managers are somehow in the eye of recall tornadoes that have touched down only in their states—Oregon and Florida?  Unfortunately, no. Some of our other experts are also tracking these events that can leave destruction in their wake. Here’s their advice to help you avoid these conflicts in the first place.     Read the article…………………………….

In Arizona, where natural disasters such as wildfires and floods are not uncommon, an effectively tailored emergency response plan is imperative for Homeowners Associations (HOAs) to safeguard lives, properties, and maintain order amidst chaos. These plans are critical in reducing confusion, preventing unnecessary expenses, and minimizing the risks of fraud during and after a disaster.    Read the article…………………………….

HOA management in AZ has transformed with the advent of technology, providing homeowners associations (HOAs) and property management services an edge in administrative efficiency and community engagement. Technology streamlines the exhaustive processes involved in HOA management, from financial record-keeping and dues processing to maintenance coordination and community oversight.    Read the article…………………………….

In a recent case out of New Jersey, Players Place II Condominium Association Inc., v. K.P., No. 088139 (N.J. March 13, 2024), the New Jersey Supreme Court evaluated whether an emotional support pet, which exceeded the community’s weight restrictions, was permissible under The Fair Housing Act (“FHA”).  The association in this case had a rule limiting pets to a maximum weight of 30 pounds. The owners in this case adopted a dog weighting 63 pounds and requested an accommodation under the FHA.     Read the article…………………………….

Navigating the responsibilities of an Arizona HOA, transparency and trust emerge as pillars essential to cultivating a thriving community. Governed by the Arizona Planned Community and Condominium Acts, these associations are not just about enforcing rules or managing common areas; they’re also about fostering an environment where every member feels heard, valued, and engaged.   Read the article…………………………….

While HOAs can sometimes be subject to misconceptions, cultivating community cohesion can transform them into vibrant, valuable communities. Community cohesion entails a sense of solidarity, trust, and active participation among residents, ultimately elevating the HOA experience. Here are five compelling reasons why nurturing community cohesion can propel an HOA in Arizona to new heights:    Read the article…………………………….

Effective communication stands as the cornerstone of success for HOA/condo associations. From fostering transparency to nurturing a sense of community, clear and consistent communication channels can distinguish excellent associations from mediocre ones. Set forth below are some strategies to promote outstanding communication skills within your community:   Read the article…………………………….

It’s Annual Meeting Season! Our firm has been busy helping clients prepare for and execute successful annual meetings. After all, the Association’s annual meeting is the Association’s TIME TO SHINE!    Read the article…………………………….

In Arizona, homeowners’ associations are governed by a law that promotes transparency and resident participation. The statute, A.R.S. § 33-1804, is part of the state’s Planned Community Act and requires associations to conduct open meetings with only a few narrow exceptions.  Subsection (A) of the law sets forth the general rule: all meetings of an association and its board must be open to all members, who are entitled to attend and speak.     Read the article…………………………….

As a member of a homeowners association (HOA), it’s important to understand the financial health of your community. One key document that provides insight into an HOA’s financial position is the balance sheet. In this post, we’ll explain what an HOA balance sheet is, review its key components, and provide tips on how to read and interpret this important financial statement.     Read the article…………………………….