An HOA Board typically runs homeowners’ associations (HOAs). The Board holds ultimate responsibility for the community and is responsible for managing both day-to-day tasks and long-term planning for the HOA. However, the Board does not have to shoulder every task alone.
Forming effective committees can significantly help the Board complete its tasks. Committees are an ideal way to increase volunteer participation, distribute the workload of running the community, and allow the Board to make smarter, more inclusive decisions.
Learn how to use committees as an asset in your HOA by following the tips in this article.
What are HOA Committees?
HOA committees are separate from the Board that governs HOA communities. They are typically comprised of groups of volunteer homeowners who assist the HOA Board by focusing on specific areas of community management and operations.
The Board retains decision-making authority, but the committees assist in carrying out tasks and provide recommendations that can make the HOA a better place for all residents.
Common Types of HOA Committees
Every HOA community has different needs, and thus will require different committees. However, a few committees are common across HOAs of different sizes and types. The following are common HOA committees.
- Architectural review committee (ARC): Responsible for overseeing exterior modification requests and ensuring compliance with the design community design guidelines.
- Social or events committees: Plans community events, seasonal gatherings, and resident engagement activities.
- Finance committee: Assists the Board with budgeting, reserve planning, and reviewing financial reports.
- Maintenance/Landscaping committee: Helps monitor common areas, track vendor performance, and track ongoing maintenance needs.
- Welcome committee: Responsible for greeting new homeowners and sharing important community resources and guidelines with them.
Tips for Building Effective Committees
It really doesn’t matter what types of communities your HOA develops. The most important this is that they are effective and help take some of the stress and pressure off of Board members.
To get the most out of your HOA committees, follow these tips.
- Define roles and responsibilities. Each committee should have a clearly written charter or description that outlines its goal, decision-making authority, and how it reports to the Board.
- Recruit the right volunteers. The committee will only be as strong as the people on it. Look for homeowners who bring relevant experience, interest, or availability to the role.
- Provide guidance. To ensure that each committee achieves its aims and works effectively with the Board, it is recommended that a Board liaison be assigned to facilitate communication and provide oversight.
- Keep meetings productive. Every meeting of the committee should be productive, with an agenda and minutes. Make sure each committee also reports its progress to the Board and homeowners.
- Recognize contributions. Your committees will be more popular with homeowners if the work of committee volunteers is recognized publicly. Recognition builds morale and encourages future participation.
- Partner with a professional community association management company, such as ACRI Community Realty. A professional property management company, such as ACRI Community Realty, will work closely with the HOA Board to build strong committees. With our help, your committees will increase homeowner involvement and improve the long-term health of your HOA.
Contact ACRI Community Realty today to learn more.
