Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is a Property Management company, what do they do, and how do I contact them?
A. The Board of Directors contracts a management company to handle various services, including assessment collection, subcontractor supervision, obtaining bids for services, financial reporting, and acting as a central hub for problem-solving and communication with homeowners and the Board. The management company advises the Board and reports directly to them, with all decisions made by a majority vote of the Board of Directors.
Q. What is a Homeowners Association?
A. A homeowners association (HOA) is a governing body established within a residential community, typically consisting of homeowners who own property within the community. The HOA is responsible for creating and enforcing rules, managing common areas and amenities, collecting dues and assessments from homeowners, and overseeing the overall maintenance and upkeep of the community.
Q. What are Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&R)?
A. Each community association operates under its own set of unique rules and policies, established by the board and outlined in the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) and bylaws. These regulations clearly delineate acceptable homeowner behavior and actions concerning their properties and the community. By upholding these rules, the community ensures cleanliness, safety, and aesthetics, preserving property values and fostering a harmonious living environment for all residents. The HOA’s board of directors or a designated property management company is responsible for enforcing the CC&Rs, with homeowners obliged to adhere to these regulations, even if they disagree. Non-compliance may lead to fines or legal action.
Q. What are Bylaws?
A. The Bylaws serve as the operational guidelines for the non-profit corporation. They outline the duties of board offices, director terms, membership voting rights, meeting requirements, the Association’s principal office, and other essential elements necessary for running the Association effectively as a business.
Q. What is the Board of Directors?
A. The Homeowner’s Association functions as a corporation and serves as a governing body responsible for managing its affairs. The Board of Directors is elected by homeowners, following procedures outlined in the bylaws or other governing documents.
Q. What are the main HOA board officer positions?
A. The main board officer positions include president, vice-president, treasurer, and secretary.
Q. What does an HOA board president do?
A. The president presides over the Board, managing its procedural tasks and ensuring its effectiveness. To excel in this position, the president must have a thorough understanding of the community’s CC&Rs and governing documents, as well as expertise in conducting meetings. They serve as the authority on all association rules and governing documents and may appoint committees as outlined in the bylaws. Additionally, the president leads community and association meetings, overseeing various responsibilities such as setting the agenda, maintaining order, facilitating discussions, conducting votes, and recognizing speakers.
Q. What does an HOA board vice president do?
A. The Board vice president shares numerous leadership and procedural responsibilities with the president, stepping into the leadership role when necessary. Their duties encompass maintaining order and adherence to parliamentary procedures during meetings, ensuring efficient business operations, and providing expertise on association rules, bylaws, and governing documents.
Q. What does an HOA board treasurer do?
A. The Board treasurer manages the association’s finances, securities, and financial records, overseeing billing, collections, and fund disbursement. They coordinate the development of the association’s annual operating budget and reserve allocations, monitoring budget performance and providing regular financial status updates throughout the year. Additionally, the treasurer oversees year-end reporting and audits, ensuring compliance with bylaws and governing documents. In self-managed communities, where financial tasks may be handled by a property management company, the treasurer ensures accurate collection, disbursement, investment, and reporting of association funds, maintaining compliance with all regulations.
Q. What does an HOA board secretary do?
A. The HOA secretary is responsible for maintaining the association’s meeting minutes and official records, updating and securely storing them for accessibility by association members. They ensure proper notice of meetings and timely distribution of documents, including official records, agendas, and meeting minutes, to members and authorized representatives. Additionally, as the custodian of the association’s official records, the secretary ensures compliance with all legal documentation requirements, including annual filing deadlines.
Q. How do board members get elected?
A. Corporations, community associations, and HOAs rely on strong leadership from board members and officers to guide their operations and decision-making processes. It’s crucial for these entities to regularly introduce new leadership to sustain ongoing success, often through board elections held every few years, typically during the annual meeting. While the specific procedures for board elections may vary based on state laws and association bylaws, common practices include providing equal opportunities for eligible homeowners to run for election, notifying homeowners in advance about the election details, and ensuring a confidential voting process. Homeowners have three voting options: attending the meeting in person, mailing their votes before the election, or voting by proxy, where another member represents them and casts their vote at the meeting.
Q. What is an annual meeting?
A. Community associations are legally mandated to hold an annual meeting for their members. These meetings primarily serve to update homeowners on the association’s board of directors’ activities and other significant matters. They also offer homeowners a platform to voice concerns, ask questions, and engage in discussions. Typically, annual meetings coincide with board member elections and involve voting on the annual budget.
The board of directors must notify homeowners of the annual meeting within a designated timeframe before the event. This notice can be mailed to homeowners or prominently displayed on the property, detailing the meeting’s date, time, and location. The specific procedures for conducting annual meetings and providing notice vary depending on the association’s governing documents and state/provincial statutes.
Q. What is an annual meeting?
A. Each community association operates under the governance of a board of directors elected by its members. The board convenes regularly, following the guidelines specified in the association’s governing documents. Depending on state/provincial laws and the association’s regulations, all members may attend these meetings. During these sessions, the board addresses various topics including the association budget, proposed policies or rules, updates on capital improvements, committee reports, and other pertinent matters. Additionally, members have the opportunity to voice concerns or suggestions regarding existing rules or policies, or propose new agenda items for the board’s consideration.
Q. What is an special meeting?
A. Between regularly scheduled board meetings, the board may convene a special meeting to address specific problems, concerns, suggestions, or unforeseen events not typically covered in regular sessions. Special meetings are restricted to addressing the issues outlined in the meeting notice, and any additional matters must be deferred for future consideration.
Procedures for calling and conducting special meetings, as well as who has the authority to call them, are outlined in your association’s governing documents. Typically, homeowners must initiate a petition, stating the reason for the meeting and garnering the required number of signatures before presenting it to the board for approval. Once approved, the special meeting is scheduled, with homeowners receiving advance notice, albeit often within a shorter timeframe than regular meetings. It’s essential to adhere to the rules outlined in your governing documents and local laws, and seek guidance from your association attorney if uncertainties arise.
Q. What is an executive “closed” meeting?
A. To address confidential matters, the board may convene an executive session within its regular board meeting, excluding non-board members. Confidential topics, such as litigation, individual homeowner financial matters, criminal investigations, and disciplinary issues, are typically discussed during these closed sessions. However, no official actions are taken during executive meetings; decisions must be made in the open portion of the board meeting.
Q. What is an emergency meeting?
A. Emergency meetings are convened in response to unforeseen situations demanding immediate attention and potential board action. While these meetings are not typically subject to prior notice requirements, state/provincial laws and association bylaws often prescribe specific notification procedures.
Q. How do I know my HOA’s rules?
A. Your HOA’s regulations and guidelines are outlined in the Governing Documents (Articles of Incorporation, Declaration, Bylaws, etc.), which offer comprehensive insight into the association’s operations. Additionally, the Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs) specify policies and procedures regarding architectural guidelines, pets, parking, noise, amenity usage, rentals, fee schedules, non-compliance fines, and more. To obtain access to your community’s governing documents, reach out to your management team.
Q. What are Bylaws?
A. The Bylaws serve as the operational guidelines for the non-profit corporation. They outline the duties of board offices, director terms, membership voting rights, meeting requirements, the Association’s principal office, and other essential elements necessary for running the Association effectively as a business.
Q. Are there any other Rules?
A. Most associations have established Rules and Regulations outlined in the CC&Rs and approved by the Board of Directors. These rules offer guidance to homeowners on common courtesies regarding parking, vehicles, pets, pool use hours, and more. Additionally, Architectural Guidelines are adopted by the Association, detailing procedures for requesting exterior changes to homes, such as patio covers, decks, landscaping, or color alterations. These regulations aim to preserve the community’s aesthetic appeal and integrity, benefiting all owners and safeguarding property values. Violations of these rules may prompt action by the Board of Directors, potentially resulting in fines. Failure to obtain written approval from the Board or Architectural Committee for exterior improvements may require the alteration’s removal or correction, along with associated fines for non-compliance.
Q. How do I become a member of my community’s HOA?
A. Upon purchasing a home within a common interest development (CID), you automatically become a member of the homeowner association and a shareholder. This membership grants you voting rights, allowing you to contribute to the establishment of association rules, policies, and regulations affecting your community. Furthermore, all association members are responsible for sharing the costs associated with operating and maintaining the common areas, systems, equipment, and amenities of the community. These expenses are covered by HOA fees or dues, which each unit owner must pay. Payment frequencies may vary, with options including monthly, bi-monthly, semi-annually, or annually, depending on the community’s regulations.
Q. What are HOA Dues and what do they cover?
A. HOA fees cover the expenses of ongoing maintenance and repairs for common areas, equipment, systems, and shared amenities within the community. Payment intervals vary, with options including monthly, annually, semi-annually, or quarterly, depending on the community’s regulations. Homeowners benefit from access to community amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, gym memberships, or valet services, which may otherwise be unaffordable or challenging to maintain independently. Additionally, included services may encompass lawn maintenance, snow removal, cable TV, electricity, and more, depending on the HOA’s offerings.
Furthermore, HOA fees contribute to a master insurance policy that safeguards the community’s building structures, exteriors, and property against damage, with additional riders and add-ons as needed. Utility payments for common areas, including electricity, lighting, water, heating, and air conditioning, are also covered by these fees.
Responsible HOAs allocate a portion of homeowner dues to a long-term reserve account for planned renovations or repairs, such as repaving roads or replacing elevator machinery. Monthly contingency funds are also set aside to address unforeseen community expenses and emergencies.
Moreover, HOA fees support salaries, benefits, and services for internal management, maintenance, and janitorial staff. Professional community association management companies may also be retained to oversee operations, maintenance, and enforcement of the board’s rules and decisions.
Q. How can I pay my HOA dues?
A. You can pay your HOA dues with our online portal using a credit card or your bank account. Please be aware that there is a 3.99% Service Fee added to any payments made with a credit card.
Q. What happens if I don’t pay my assessment?
A. The Association relies on timely receipt of assessments from each homeowner to cover maintenance and management services. Late payments will incur a charge, as assessments are due on the first of the month. Furthermore, according to the CC&Rs, the Association has the authority to impose late fees, interest, and pursue a lien or foreclosure for nonpayment of assessments.
Q. How do I submit a maintenance request?
A. You can submit a maintenance request through our online portal.
Q. What is the Board of Directors?
A. The Homeowner’s Association functions as a corporation and serves as a governing body responsible for managing its affairs. The Board of Directors is elected by homeowners, following procedures outlined in the bylaws or other governing documents.
Q. Are board meetings open to the public?
A. No, only Homeowners are allowed to attend a board meeting. Typically, a sign will be posted in your community notifying of the day, location and time of the meeting along with an electronic notification via email or whatever technology platform your association uses.
Q. What are the most commonly misunderstood things about insurance coverage?
A. Understanding insurance can be challenging, and many homeowners and boards may not fully grasp key aspects of ensuring adequate coverage. Here are some common areas that often cause confusion:
- Despite being labeled “All-risk,” policies typically have exclusions, meaning they don’t cover everything.
- Property covered under a master association policy usually only includes common areas and the condominium corporation’s owned property. It’s essential for boards to remind unit owners to obtain their own unit coverage.
- Insurance costs, including premiums and deductibles, directly impact your board’s budget. Ensure you budget for both deductibles and premium payments.
- Not all policies are identical. While insurance is often seen as a commodity, policies and carriers can differ significantly. Working with a reliable broker or agent is crucial for comparing policies and securing appropriate coverage.
- Underinsuring the association can lead to penalties and lawsuits from residents. Therefore, accurate property valuation before obtaining insurance is critical.
Q. What should I know about insurance policies and natural disasters?
A. Various types of natural disasters come with different deductible requirements. For instance, a hurricane or flood policy might have a distinct deductible compared to perils like fire. Catastrophic coverage typically entails high deductibles. Your association’s policy may feature either a percentage or dollar deductible. While opting for a higher deductible can lead to lower premiums, it’s crucial to ensure the association has allocated sufficient funds to cover the deductible in case of a disaster. Stay informed about the financial resources available to your board during emergencies and plan accordingly, considering coverage in unit owners’ homeowner policies (HO-6 policies), which may cover special assessments.
Q. What special requirements may be found in insurance coverage for disasters?
A. In areas prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, separate “named storm” coverage is essential, especially if your association is located in a storm-prone region. While “wind” and “hail” coverage is typically included in most places, certain areas like Virginia may require separate policies for “wind” and “hail.” Snowstorms are generally covered in standard policies, typically under “wind” and possibly “collapse” provisions if snow accumulation leads to roof damage.
Flood insurance is crucial as flooding poses a significant risk to all communities. For instance, damages from water entering through a broken window during a hurricane would be covered by the association’s hurricane policy, while water entering under the clubhouse door due to overflowing rivers or canals would require flood insurance coverage.
Different markets may necessitate separate policies for various catastrophic losses. It’s important to ensure your broker or agent is experienced in insuring your community type and understands the unique needs of your location.
Q. Are there requirements my association must always meet to be eligible for coverage?
A. First and foremost, ensure timely payment of premiums. Missed or overdue payments can lead to issues with claims or even the cancellation of coverage. Insurance companies typically conduct building inspections to verify adequate coverage. Accuracy is crucial on all insurance applications to avoid claim denials. Your association must adhere to safety recommendations, regulations, and local laws, such as ensuring sprinkler system valves remain on and smoke alarms are operational. Additionally, there may be market-specific requirements to consider; for instance, in Florida, insurance policies cannot be obtained after a named storm has been announced.
Q. What can my association do to save money on our insurance policy?
A. We all aim to cut costs on insurance whenever possible! Enhancing the safety of your community and minimizing the risk of loss can potentially lower the premiums your association pays. This may involve installing security alarms, utilizing specific roof attachments, implementing storm shutters or impact-resistant windows, and adhering to other safety measures.
Furthermore, the more homeowners in your association who purchase their own insurance coverage, the more beneficial it is for the association. Ultimately, it boils down to loss experience – the frequency and amount of claims filed. Lowering both the frequency and dollar amount of claims can result in reduced premiums for the association.
Q. What is HO-6 coverage and why is it important for condo owners to have it?
A. Many condo owners think the association’s policy covers their units, but that’s false. The association’s insurance policies typically only cover the exterior of the building, common areas, and landscaping. HO-6 policies cover the unit owner’s personal belongings, personal liability, and any additions or improvements made to the unit (upgrading finishes and fixtures, for example). Suppose an owner’s unit is unlivable due to a disaster or other reason out of their control. In that case, HO-6 insurance will help cover those living expenses, including the rental of another residence while the insured unit is being repaired.
Your condo association benefits from unit owners having HO-6 coverage in two primary ways:
- If a disaster strikes your association building, and your insurance has a high deductible, the HO-6 policies of your unit owners can help cover that deductible. The association levies a special assessment on the owners to cover the deductible, which is then paid through the owners’ HO-6 policies.
- The percentage of your association’s residents who have that coverage can affect your association’s insurance premiums.
Q. What is a Property Management company and what do they do?
A. A property management company is responsible for overseeing and maintaining real estate properties on behalf of property owners. They handle various tasks such as rent collection, property maintenance, tenant relations, and financial management to ensure the smooth operation and upkeep of the properties.
Q. Who is responsible for maintenance on the property?
A. As the homeowner, you are typically responsible for covering the expense of most repairs, unless they are caused by tenants. Tenants, on the other hand, are responsible for tasks such as changing A/C filters, replacing light bulbs, smoke detector batteries, lawn maintenance, and landscaping. We manage all maintenance tasks on your behalf and coordinate with trusted vendors to handle repairs. This means you won’t have to deal with late-night calls about a broken A/C. Additionally, we troubleshoot common maintenance issues with tenants before arranging for service, which often helps prevent unnecessary calls, such as resetting the garbage disposal.
Q. Can I do my own maintenance?
A. During periods of vacancy, you have the option to perform maintenance tasks yourself or hire your preferred vendors. However, once the property is occupied by tenants, we will exclusively utilize our approved vendors. This protocol is in place to safeguard you, the homeowner, as we mandate that all our vendors possess adequate insurance and licenses, and adhere to our standards of workmanship and professionalism when servicing your property and interacting with tenants.
Q. Who pays taxes, HOA dues, etc?
A. As the homeowner, you will still be responsible for paying these.
Q. What is the Board of Directors?
A. The tenants will be responsible for paying the utilities, lawn care and pool service unless otherwise negotiated.
Q. Should I allow pets?
A. We do recommend that you allow pets unless your property is within an association that does not permit tenants to have them. About 70% of the tenant pool will have pets, so by not allowing them, you’ll typically have less applicants to choose from. You can place restrictions on size and type of pet. We advise our Landlords to require a $500-1,000 pet deposit which you can elect to make refundable or nonrefundable. Ultimately, the choice to allow pets is up to you and we will support either decision.
Q. Do I need a different insurance policy once my property becomes a rental?
A. Yes, you’ll need to talk to your insurance carrier and get a landlord policy and umbrella policy.
Q. What does an HOA board vice president do?
A. Given our rigorous tenant selection process, the probability of such occurrences is exceptionally slim. However, we completely understand your concerns. To further ensure the property’s proper upkeep, we conduct at least two semi-annual property inspections, providing you with photos and a comprehensive report. Additionally, we collect a substantial security deposit to cover any damage caused by tenants, offering financial protection in such instances.
Q. What items should I leave behind for the tenants?
A. You will want to leave the kitchen appliances for the tenants (refrigerator, range, built in microwave, dishwasher), washer and dryer.
Q. What does an HOA board secretary do?
A. No, it is not recommended to leave the furniture for the tenants. Long term tenants will have their own furniture to bring into the property and if you leave yours behind, you can’t count on it being preserved for later use.
Q. How do board members get elected?
A. We have had ZERO evictions. Our rental screening process is higher than normal and we’re very picky about the tenants we choose for your property.
Q. What are the property managers responsibilities vs my responsibilities?
A. Essentially, you are hiring us to take care of the property for you, so we do just that. From finding you a qualified tenant, to handling rent collections, maintenance, and all tenant relations – we do it all! You will never have contact with the tenant, and we take care of all of the day-to-day headaches for you.
Q. I want to rent my property. When should I get started?
A. Once you have a clear timeline for when the property will be available for a tenant, we can initiate the process. We’ll assist in identifying any necessary tasks to ensure the property is “rent ready”, and once completed, we can commence marketing the property. I suggest informing us as soon as you confirm your decision to proceed, as we consistently have prospective tenants on the lookout. Even if the property isn’t officially listed yet, we may already have interested parties lined up.
Q. How much do you charge to manage the property?
A. We charge 9-10% of the monthly rent depending on the property type and the amount of rent being charged.
Q. How much do you charge to lease the property?
A. We charge 1 month’s rent to lease the property which is taken out of the first month’s rent on the day the tenant receives the keys.
Q. How do I know you’ll find me a qualified tenant?
A. Making sure you have a good, qualified tenant is just about the most important part of our job, and something we don’t take lightly! Our standards are high. We have a meticulous tenant screening process and everything is properly vetted (employment records, rental references, credit and background checks, social media checks, etc). Our history speaks for itself – we have ZERO EVICTIONS!
Q. Who sets the rent price on the property?
A. We want to get you as much as we possibly can, in the shortest period of time. We run a full rental analysis of the property, and provide you with the pricing recommendation. While we all have expectations on what the property should rent for, the market will dictate the price.
Q. How long will it take you to rent my property?
A. It typically takes us about 1-3 weeks to obtain a signed lease.
Q. Am I locked into a long term contract with Cozi Property Management?
A. No! You can cancel any time with 30 days notice.
Q. What if the tenant doesn’t pay their rent?
A. Again, because of our high standards, this rarely happens. If your tenant doesn’t pay their rent, they are sent late notices and we are calling them personally to find out why rent hasn’t been paid. This typically resolves the problem. If it gets to be mid month and rent still isn’t paid and there has been no communication from the tenant, then we will contact an eviction attorney to start the eviction process. Even during this process, the tenant may end up catching up on rent. If they don’t, then the attorney goes to court and represents you during the eviction hearing. We handle all this for you.
Q. How can I pay my rent?
A. You can pay your rent with our online portal using a credit card or your bank account. Please be aware that there is a 3.99% Service Fee added to any payments made with a credit card.
Q. How do I submit a maintenance request?
A. You can submit a maintenance request through our online portal.
Q. Is renter’s insurance required?
A. Yes, we require all tenants to maintain renter’s insurance for the duration of their lease. Renter’s insurance provides valuable protection for your personal belongings and liability coverage in case of accidents.
Q. What are the terms of the lease agreement?
A. Our lease agreements typically have a duration of 1 year with options for renewal upon expiration. Specific terms and conditions will be outlined in your lease agreement.
Q. Are pets allowed in the property?
A. Pets may be allowed with prior approval and the payment of a pet deposit or additional fees. This varies property to property depending on the Landlords preference.
Q. How are security deposits handled?
A. Security deposits are held in a separate escrow account and will be returned to you within 15 days of move-out unless the landlord intends to impose a claim on the deposit for damages beyond normal wear and tear. As per the Florida Landlord Tenant Act Chapter 83, the landlord has 30 days after move-out to notify you of any claims that he’s making and the tenant has 15 days to respond. Please read the Act for specific guidance or seek the advice of an attorney.
Q. Who should I contact for emergency maintenance issues?
A. For emergency maintenance issues outside of regular office hours, please contact our emergency maintenance hotline at 305-111-2222. Our team is available 24/7 to address urgent issues.
Q. Are there any rules or regulations I should be aware of?
A. Yes, we have specific rules and regulations regarding noise, parking, property upkeep, and other common areas. These guidelines are outlined in your lease agreement and community rules.
Q. How often are property inspections conducted?
A. Property inspections are typically conducted semi-annualy and you will be notified in advance of any scheduled inspections. These inspections help ensure the property is well-maintained and in compliance with lease terms.
Q. How can I request changes to the lease agreement?
A. If you need to request changes to your lease agreement, please contact our office to discuss your specific situation. We will work with you to address your concerns and make any necessary amendments.
Q. What amenities or services are included with the rental property?
A. Amenities and services vary by property but may include lawn care, trash removal, and access to community facilities such as a pool or fitness center. Specific amenities will be outlined in your lease agreement.
Q. What should I do if I have a dispute or disagreement?
A. If you have a dispute or disagreement, please contact our office to discuss the issue. We will work with you to resolve the matter promptly and fairly.
Q. What is the process for ending the lease early or subletting the property?
A. The process for ending a lease early or subletting the property varies depending on the terms outlined in the lease agreement and the policies of the property management company. Typically, tenants interested in such actions should contact the property management company to discuss their options. If the lease permits early termination or subletting, tenants may need to provide written notice, find a suitable replacement tenant, pay a lease termination fee, or fulfill other specified requirements. It’s crucial for tenants to carefully review their lease agreement and consult with the property management company to understand the process, including any associated fees or obligations.
Q. Are there any extra fees not included in the rent, such as utilities or HOA fees?
A. Yes, there may be additional fees or charges not included in the rent such as utilities. The specific fees and charges vary depending on the property and the terms outlined in the lease agreement. Tenants are typically responsible for paying their utility bills, which may include electricity, water, gas, and internet services. HOA fees are generally paid by the landlord but it’s important for tenants to review their lease agreement carefully to understand any additional fees or charges that may apply.
Q. Can I make changes to the property such as painting or installing fixtures?
A. Any alterations or modifications to the property must be approved by the property management company in advance. Tenants should submit a written request detailing the proposed changes, and approval will be granted based on the terms outlined in the lease agreement.
Q. How do I report noise complaints or concerns about my neighbors?
A. Tenants should contact the property management company to report noise complaints or concerns about neighbors. The property management team will address the issue promptly and take appropriate action to resolve the situation, in accordance with community rules and regulations.
Q. What is the process for renewing my lease agreement?
A. 60 days prior to the expiration of the lease agreement, tenants will receive information from the property management company regarding lease renewal options. Tenants interested in renewing their lease should notify the property management team in advance to discuss the terms and sign a new lease agreement if desired.
Q. Are there any restrictions on decorating or furnishing the rental property?
A. Tenants are generally allowed to decorate and furnish the rental property to their liking, within reason. However, any alterations or additions must be reversible and cannot cause damage to the property. Tenants should review the lease agreement or contact the property management company for specific guidelines on decorating and furnishing the property.
Q. What is the policy regarding guests staying overnight in the rental property?
A. Guests are typically allowed to stay overnight in the rental property for a limited duration, usually specified in the lease agreement. However, extended stays may require approval from the property management company. Tenants should review the lease agreement or contact the property management team for specific guidelines on guest accommodations.
Q. Are there any restrictions on the use of common areas, parking spaces or amenities?
A. Tenants should be aware of any guidelines or rules regarding the use of common areas or facilities outlined in the lease agreement or community regulations. Restrictions may include designated parking spaces, guest parking policies, pool or gym hours and noise regulations for shared spaces. Understanding these rules can help tenants avoid conflicts with neighbors and ensure a harmonious living environment within the community.