The cost of neglecting your property is a low resale value and weak negotiation position. So, property upkeep is crucial. In an HOA, however, it's sometimes unclear who handles which tasks.
Knowing your maintenance duties can keep your home in prime condition, ready to sell or secure a loan. Keep reading to discover all about HOA property maintenance in Houston, Texas.
What HOA Property Maintenance Covers
HOA property maintenance is all about keeping the community looking good and functioning well. It includes care for communal areas like parks, pools, and clubhouses.
It means the grass gets cut, the flowers are watered, and the pool stays clean for everyone to enjoy. When sidewalks crack or street lights flicker out, the HOA steps in to fix these issues, too.
Your Part in HOA Property Maintenance
Owning an HOA property comes with some chores of your own. Even though the HOA manages the exterior work, you must take care of your home's interior maintenance. This includes leaky plumbing, chipped paint, etc.
How HOA Fees Work
HOA fees pay for maintenance costs. Homeowners pool their resources with neighbors to afford big projects, such as repairing the roof of the shared gym.
These fees can change, so always check how much you need to pay and when.
Attending HOA Meetings
By going to HOA meetings, you get a say in how maintenance tasks are handled and how your fees are spent. If you have a suggestion for improving the communal areas or a concern about rising maintenance costs, this is your chance to speak up.
The Importance of HOA Bylaws
Understanding the HOA bylaws can save you a lot of headaches. These rules outline who is responsible for what in terms of maintenance. If you're unsure whether you need to fix something or if the HOA does, check the bylaws.
Handling Maintenance Requests
If you see something in the communal area that needs fixing, report it to the HOA. There's usually a process for submitting maintenance requests.
You might find the submission instructions in your community guidelines. If not, a formal email that details the repair should suffice.
Dispute Resolution
If a dispute arises, start by communicating openly with your HOA. Present your concerns clearly and respectfully in writing. This will help establish a record of your efforts to resolve the issue.
If communication doesn't resolve the issue, consider mediation. In this voluntary process, a neutral third party helps facilitate discussion and agreement.
If your HOA still fails to improve common areas, consider legal action as a last resort. However, this can be time-consuming and expensive.
Effective HOA Property Maintenance Strategies
Living in an HOA community in Houston, Texas, means you're part of a team. Everyone works together to keep the place looking great and functioning smoothly. Understanding your role in HOA property maintenance and attending HOA meetings are key to enjoying your home and neighborhood.
PMI Infinito offers skilled maintenance services to keep your area in top shape. We have over 20 years of experience and are well-equipped to help your community thrive. Contact us today to keep your Texas neighborhood clean and beautiful.