Rules to Assist in Interpreting Confusing HOA Governing Documents

People who live in common interest communities that are governed by a homeowners association and those who are responsible for managing the association such as directors, officers, committee members, and management personnel, frequently deal with issues that require them to review and interpret the association’s governing documents such as articles of incorporation, bylaws, covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs), policies and rules. Reviewing and understanding the content of an association’s governing documents is not an easy task as they are complex legal instruments that have been drafted by lawyers and professionals who possess specialized knowledge about the topics that is well beyond the expertise of the average homeowner, director, officer or management person of the association.