Owning a rental property governed by a homeowners association (HOA) can provide steady long-term income, but it also comes with a side of strict rules that your tenants must follow. Unlike standard rentals, HOAs impose covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) that govern everything from landscaping to lease terms. Failing to comply with the rules can lead to fines, legal disputes, and even forced corrective actions.
It’s time-consuming enough to manage tenants. Handling HOA complaints is a drag. That’s why smart investors hire a property manager to ensure tenants comply with the lease and HOA rules. For instance, Houston property management company Green Residential supports real estate investors by taking over management tasks, including enforcing HOA and lease terms. Without a property manager, you’re on the hook for following up with every complaint.
Whether you currently own property inside an HOA or you’re considering it, here are some common complaints you might face when your rental property is governed by an HOA.
1. Noise disturbance complaints
Noise disturbances are one of the most frequent complaints any landlord will encounter, but it’s especially common when there’s an HOA involved. Many HOA homeowners tend to be far less tolerant of loud music, parties, and late-night gatherings. Even the slightest disturbance might end up in a formal violation letter from the HOA. If you don’t handle these complaints immediately, they can result in fines and enforcement actions.
It’s critical to outline quiet hours and noise rules in your lease and go over these rules verbally in-person with your tenants. Make sure they understand what constitutes a noise violation and include consequences like warnings and fines. Let your tenants know the HOA will come down on you for their violations and don’t make any exceptions.
Choosing renters with a stable rental history is a good way to screen out potentially problematic tenants. However, if something does go wrong, you’ll need a plan in place to address the issues promptly to avoid consequences.
2. Parking and vehicle violations
Parking and vehicle disputes are another common complaint you may need to handle when you own rental property governed by an HOA. Many associations have strict rules about where vehicles can be parked and may require guest parking passes for cars not owned by your tenant. Many HOAs also ban RV storage and don’t allow commercial vehicles.
In your lease agreement, outline the parking rules, including authorized spots, prohibited vehicles, and actions tenants must take (like displaying HOA permits). Make sure to include guest parking policies in the parking section. Set clear guest limits and require tenants to register guests with you for overnight stays.
3. Landscaping and exterior maintenance
HOAs enforce strict aesthetic standards to protect curb appeal and property values. Tenants who neglect the lawn, leave trash on the front porch, or ignore upkeep can end up getting a violation letter.
Decide whether landscaping is your responsibility or your tenant’s responsibility. If up to your tenant, include specific standards and consequences in the lease. If you’re going to handle all the landscaping, consider hiring a property manager or landscaping company to come out on a regular basis to avoid HOA fines.
4. Unauthorized subletting
Short-term rentals and unregistered tenants will generate HOA violations and fines. Many HOAs restrict homeowners from subletting to short-term renters, including rentals through Airbnb. To avoid this issue, include rules regarding short-term rentals in your lease agreement that align with HOA policies and your preferences as a landlord. It’s usually best to ban all short-term rentals outright.
5. Pet complaints
Complaints about pets can range from a tenant having an excessive number of animals to leash violations and unmanaged waste. Make sure you outline a pet policy in your lease that matches the HOA’s rules to avoid violations and fines. The HOA might have breed restrictions so don’t forget to include that. If you do receive a letter of complaint from the HOA, respond quickly and resolve the situation with your tenant.
6. Non-payment of dues
When you own a home governed by an HOA, you need to pay all dues, penalties, and assessments on time or you risk the HOA foreclosing on your property. In many states, this is legal, although it’s a last resort after a homeowner repeatedly fails to respond to collection attempts. These fees aren’t your tenant’s responsibility unless you specifically include the fees in the lease.
Proactive compliance will keep your rentals problem-free
Landlords renting property under an HOA face a unique set of challenges due to strict rules and serious consequences for violations. The key to avoiding fines and legal issues is to be proactive about compliance. Know the rules, educate your tenants, and respond to complaints fast.
With the right systems in place, you can mitigate most common issues before they become costly HOA violations.
