Who Does What in an HOA?
An HOA works best when everyone knows their role. Here's a quick guide to who does what, and who to contact when you need something.
The four roles
Owners
Owners follow the governing documents, pay assessments, maintain what their documents assign to them, and take part by voting and attending meetings.
The board of directors
The board is made up of elected volunteer owners. Board members review budgets and financials, plan for long-term maintenance, make decisions about common areas and set policies within the community's governing documents.
The management company
The management company handles day-to-day operations, communication, finances and vendor coordination at the board's direction. It doesn't make the rules; it carries them out.
Vendors
Vendors are contractors the association hires for services such as landscaping, snow removal and repairs.
Who should I contact?
For common-area concerns, account questions or architectural requests, reach out to your community manager, who coordinates with vendors on the association's behalf. For any emergency involving safety, call 911 first. For after-hours emergencies in an Accord-managed community, call 720-259-8019.
Making the most of a board meeting
Board meetings are where decisions get made. A few tips:
- Read the agenda ahead of time so you know what's being discussed and decided.
- Watch for the owner comment period. That's your time to share thoughts with the board.
- Keep comments brief and respectful. Your board members are volunteer neighbors.
- Know that some topics, such as legal matters or individual owner accounts, may be handled in a closed executive session.
- Have a specific concern? Reach out to your community manager before the meeting.
Thinking about serving on the board?
The time commitment varies by community, but it usually means attending board meetings and reviewing information between them. Your management company handles the day-to-day work. An engaged, thoughtful board helps keep the community well maintained and financially healthy. Contact your community manager to learn how board elections and openings work in your community.
Related: HOA Board and Meeting Support | Homeowners Hub
