What is an assessment?

Homeowner associations can compel homeowners to pay a share of common expenses, usually per-unit or based on square footage. These expenses generally arise from common property, which varies dramatically depending on the type of association. Some associations are, quite literally, towns, complete with:

  • Amenities
  • Community Buildings
  • Pools
  • Private Roads
  • Schools
  • Services
  • Utilities

Many condominium associations consider the roofs and exteriors of the structures as the responsibility of the association. Other associations have no common property, but may charge for services or other matters.

Show All Answers

1. What is an assessment?
2. Are 'dues' different than 'assessments?'
3. What is a homeowners association (HOA)?
4. What is a community association?
5. What is a neighborhood association?
6. What is the difference between a homeowners association and a neighborhood association?
7. What is association management?
8. What is an association management company and what do they do?
9. Does my community have an association management company, and if so, how do I contact them?
10. What is a 'managing agent'?
11. What is a 'proxy'?
12. What is a 'quorom'?
13. What is a 'recuse'?
14. What is a board of directors?
15. How do I contact my board of directors?
16. What is Community Associations Institute?
17. Is the Community Associations Institute a national organization, or are they local to my area?
18. What are CC&Rs?
19. What are 'bylaws'?
20. What are governing documents?
21. What is a lien?
22. What is the 'declaration'?
23. What is an estoppel letter?
24. What is an 'easement'?
25. What is a 'notice of noncompliance'?
26. What is a 'common area'?
27. What are ordinances?