For Homeowners and Board Members
HOA Rights & Responsibilities in California & Texas
Attending and Participating in Board Meetings
- California: Homeowners have the right to attend all open board meetings and speak during open forum, as required by Civil Code §4925.
- Texas: Homeowners may attend most board meetings except for executive sessions on sensitive issues. This right is protected under Property Code §209.0051.
Accessing HOA Records and Governing Documents
- California: The Davis-Stirling Act (Civil Code §5200–5240) gives homeowners access to financials, minutes, and governing documents. Associations must respond to requests within the timelines specified by law.
- Texas: Property Code §209.005 requires HOAs to provide access to records and to post governing documents online for member access.
Paying Dues and Assessments
Homeowners must pay dues as required by their association’s governing documents. Payments may be made online through a secure portal, by check, or by electronic transfer. Payment deadlines, late fees, and available payment plan options are determined by the HOA’s policies and applicable state laws.
Homeowners may submit maintenance requests through the secure portal or by phone. Comuneo provides updates and tracks progress to ensure timely responses and resolution.
- California: Homeowners must submit applications for exterior changes or modifications. Boards or architectural committees review these requests for compliance with the CC&Rs and Civil Code.
- Texas: Homeowners must submit written applications for modifications. Boards or committees must review them reasonably and within timelines established by the Texas Property Code.
- California: Under AB 130, homeowners must be given time to cure non–health and safety violations before fines are imposed. Fines for these violations are capped at $100 per incident. Health and safety violations may result in immediate enforcement and higher fines. Boards must also provide notice and an opportunity for a hearing before fines are finalized.
- Texas: Boards must issue written notice of a violation and provide homeowners the opportunity for a hearing before fines are imposed. This is required by Property Code §209.006.
- California: Elections must comply with SB 323, requiring secret ballots, independent inspectors, and updated bylaws or a stand-alone election policy. Recall procedures are also outlined under the Davis-Stirling Act.
- Texas: Homeowners in good standing have the right to run for the board and vote in elections, as outlined in Property Code §209.00593. Procedures for recalls and replacements are guided by the bylaws and state law.
Homeowners are encouraged to participate in their community by volunteering for committees, attending board meetings, or running for a board seat. Active participation strengthens the community, improves communication, and ensures that homeowner voices are heard in decision-making.
