WHAT ARE COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS?

This is a legally binding document that is officially recorded and filed with your state. Your Convenants cover the rights and obligations of the homeowners association to its members and vice-versa. They often cover legal issues, such as:

• Property use restrictions

• Clearly defined maintenance obligations for the HOA and individual members

• Mechanisms for rule enforcement and dispute resolution

• Lender protection provisions

• Assessment and insurance obligations

Because this record is kept on file with the state, it can be difficult to amend and requires a vote by the membership to make any changes.

WHAT ARE BYLAWS?

If Covenants cover the “what” of the HOA, the Bylaws cover the “how.” The Neighborhood's bylaws establish the structure of day-to-day governance of your homeowners association. This includes things like:

• Frequency of HOA board elections

• Process for nominating and electing new board members

• Number of members that serve at one time

• Length of board member service terms

• Meeting frequency and quorum requirements

• Duties and responsibilities of board members