What Repairs Are The HOA’s Responsibility?

Have you ever received a surprise bill for a repair, only to wonder if it's something your Homeowners Association (HOA) should have covered? If you're like many homeowners, navigating HOA responsibilities can feel like a mystery. 

Most residents aren't entirely sure what their HOA is responsible for maintaining or repairing. Knowing the answer could save you thousands of dollars—or at least spare you a lot of frustration.

So, what repairs are the HOA’s responsibility?

HOAs are generally responsible for maintaining common areas, exterior building structures, landscaping, and shared amenities within the community. Homeowners usually are responsible for interior and private property repairs.

Let's break down the specifics of HOA maintenance responsibilities and clarify what you can expect from your HOA versus what you, as the homeowner, are responsible for.

Understanding HOA Maintenance Responsibilities

At its core, an HOA is tasked with preserving property values and ensuring the community remains a safe, appealing, and functional place to live. That means the HOA covers a broad range of maintenance duties, but where do their responsibilities end and yours begin?

In most cases, an HOA's maintenance responsibilities extend to common areas and shared amenities. These include community pools, clubhouses, landscaping, and external building structures like roofs or facades. If these benefit all residents, the HOA will likely keep them in working order.

The average HOA in Florida spends a significant portion of its budget on maintenance and repairs, with estimates ranging from 25% to 40% of the annual budget. This varies depending on the size, age, and amenities of the HOA community.

While the exact percentage can fluctuate, it's clear that maintaining shared spaces and structures is a major expense for HOAs in Florida. This ensures the safety, functionality, and overall value of the community.

What Repairs Are HOAs Responsible For?

The exact nature of what repairs the HOA is answerable for can vary depending on the association's governing documents, including the covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs). However, HOAs are generally responsible for:

1. Common Areas Maintenance

Common areas are the lifeblood of any community. These include:

• Parks and Playgrounds: Regular upkeep ensures these spaces remain safe and enjoyable for families.

• Swimming Pools: Maintenance includes cleaning, chemical balancing, and repairs to pool equipment.

• Sidewalks and Roads: The HOA is responsible for repairing cracks and potholes and ensuring safe passage for all residents.

According to research conducted by the Community Associations Institute, a significant majority of homeowners (89%) believe that the rules in their communities protect and enhance property values, with 68% specifically indicating that these rules have a positive impact. 

This statistic underscores the critical role that effective maintenance of common areas plays in preserving property values within community associations. 

2. Landscaping and Groundskeeping

A vibrant landscape beautifies a community and contributes to its overall value. HOAs typically handle:

• Lawn Care: Regular mowing, fertilization, and pest control.

• Tree Maintenance: Trimming overgrown branches to prevent hazards.

• Seasonal Planting: Ensuring flower beds are colorful and inviting throughout the year.

Proper landscaping helps prevent safety hazards such as overgrown trees or poorly maintained sidewalks, which can lead to accidents.

3. Infrastructure Repairs

Infrastructure maintenance is another critical area where HOAs play a vital role. Responsibilities often include:

• Road Repairs: Fixing potholes and ensuring smooth surfaces for vehicles.

• Utility Maintenance: Overseeing repairs for shared plumbing and electrical systems.

• Building Exteriors: Maintaining roofs, siding, and other structural components that affect common buildings.

4. Maintenance Structure HOA

Understanding the maintenance structure within an HOA can clarify who is responsible for what. Typically, responsibilities are divided into three categories:

• Common Areas: Managed entirely by the HOA.

• Limited Common Areas: These are shared between specific homeowners and the HOA, such as balconies or patios that only certain residents can access.

• Individual Units: Homeowners are responsible for their own property maintenance unless specified otherwise in the CC&Rs.

Pro Tip: Always review your HOA's governing documents to understand specific maintenance structure HOA guidelines, as these can vary between communities!

What Is the Homeowner Responsible For?

While HOAs handle many aspects of community upkeep, homeowners are responsible for their own units or properties. This means:

• Interior Repairs: If there's damage inside your home, such as a leaky faucet, broken windows, or an electrical issue, you're likely responsible for fixing it.

• Private Yard Maintenance (If Applicable): In some communities, homeowners are expected to maintain their individual yards or gardens, though the HOA may cover the front yards or common greenery.

• Exterior Modifications: Any personal modifications to the property, such as adding a deck or changing paint colors, are typically the homeowner's responsibility. In fact, many HOAs have strict guidelines about these changes.

Did you know that 53% of homeowners report being confused about the exact responsibilities of their HOA? That's why understanding the boundaries between your responsibilities and those of the HOA can be key to avoiding costly surprises.

What Happens If the HOA Doesn't Make Necessary Repairs?

What if something breaks—a roof leak, for example—and the HOA doesn't act? Most HOAs are required to respond to maintenance issues within a reasonable timeframe. If they fail to do so, homeowners may have legal recourse, such as withholding fees or seeking compensation for damages.

However, it's best to try mediation before jumping to legal action. File a formal request to the HOA board in writing, citing the specific repair needed and its urgency. Open communication often leads to faster resolutions.

Why Understanding HOA Repairs is Crucial for Homeowners

The line between the repairs the HOA is responsible for and what falls under the homeowner's domain can sometimes be blurred. However, being informed about your HOA's maintenance structure and understanding the specifics of what the HOA is responsible for can prevent unnecessary stress and confusion.

Imagine discovering water damage in your ceiling and assuming it's your responsibility to repair it. Without checking your HOA's guidelines, you may spend thousands fixing an issue the association should have covered. That's why knowing where the responsibilities lie and when you can rely on your HOA to step in is crucial.

Conclusion: Take Action Today!

Understanding what repairs an HOA is responsible for is essential for maintaining a harmonious living environment. If you're part of an HOA or considering joining one, familiarize yourself with your community's CC&Rs to know your rights and responsibilities.

For property management solutions that streamline communication and enhance community engagement, look no further than Mosaic Services. Our platform simplifies maintenance tracking and fosters collaboration between residents and management.

Ready to elevate your community management experience? Contact Mosaic Services today!

Uncover More Information:

• Do Property Managers Pay for Repairs & Bills?

• Types of Unenforceable HOA Rules (Explained)

• What Happens If You Don't Pay HOA Fees?