Obtain and read the full CC&Rs document before making an offerCriticalCC&Rs are legally binding restrictions that run with the land. They often limit exterior modifications, landscaping, parking, rentals, and building additions.
Check for rental restrictions (short-term and long-term)CriticalMany HOAs prohibit or limit Airbnb/VRBO rentals. Some restrict long-term rentals entirely or cap the percentage of rental units in the community.
Review architectural review requirements and approval processesMost HOAs require architectural committee approval for exterior changes including paint colors, fencing, roofing, solar panels, and landscaping.
Check for restrictions on ADUs, sheds, and accessory structuresCriticalEven if local zoning permits ADUs, HOA CC&Rs may prohibit them. HOA restrictions can be more restrictive than zoning.
Verify pet policies, including breed, size, and number restrictionsSome HOAs restrict dog breeds, impose weight limits, or limit the number of pets. Service animals are protected under the Fair Housing Act.
Check for vehicle and parking restrictionsMany HOAs restrict commercial vehicles, RVs, boats, and trailer parking. Some limit the number of vehicles per unit or prohibit street parking.

Review the HOA's most recent financial statements and budgetCriticalLook for adequate reserve funds (typically 20-40% of the annual budget), balanced budgets, and no pattern of deficit spending.
Check for pending or planned special assessmentsCriticalSpecial assessments can cost homeowners thousands to tens of thousands of dollars for major repairs. Ask the board about any planned assessments.
Review the reserve study (if available)A professional reserve study projects future maintenance costs and determines if the HOA is adequately funded. Underfunded reserves signal future fee increases or special assessments.
Understand current monthly/quarterly dues and fee historyCheck how frequently and by how much dues have increased over the past 5-10 years. Rapid increases may indicate financial problems.
Check the delinquency rate among current homeownersA high delinquency rate (above 10-15%) can strain HOA finances and shift costs to paying homeowners.

Read the bylaws and current rules and regulationsBylaws govern how the HOA operates (elections, meetings, quorums). Rules may cover noise, trash, holiday decorations, home businesses, and more.
Review meeting minutes from the past 12 monthsMeeting minutes reveal current disputes, planned projects, litigation, and the general tone of the community. Request these from the HOA management company.
Check for any pending litigation involving the HOACriticalOngoing lawsuits can drain reserves and lead to special assessments. Common issues include construction defect claims, disputes with developers, and discrimination complaints.
Understand the violation enforcement process and fine scheduleKnow how violations are reported, investigated, and fined. Some HOAs are notoriously strict; others are lenient. Both extremes can cause problems.
Verify voting rights and amendment proceduresUnderstand how CC&Rs can be changed (typically requires 67-75% of homeowners to vote). Check if the developer still controls the board.

Review the HOA's master insurance policy coverageThe master policy typically covers common areas and the building exterior. Understand what's covered and what you need to insure separately with an HO-6 policy.
Determine if an HO-6 (condo/HOA) insurance policy is requiredYou'll need an HO-6 policy to cover your unit's interior, personal property, and liability. Your lender will likely require this.
Check for adequate umbrella/liability coverage in the master policyThe master policy should carry sufficient liability coverage for common area injuries. Inadequate coverage exposes all homeowners to risk.

HOA Restrictions Checklist