If you’re establishing a homeowner’s association, creating a dedicated website for it needs to be part of your agenda. HOAs are required to have websites under certain circumstances. Those conditions vary by state and other factors. Even HOAs that don’t fall under those regulations should consider making a website available to their members. Doing so can help keep transparency at the forefront and ensure everyone in the neighbourhood is up to date on the latest pertinent information among other benefits.
What Needs to Be Included in an HOA Website?
Every HOA is different, and so are the neighbourhoods they govern. That means no two homeowners association websites will be exactly the same. That said, certain features are essential, so they should be universally included.
Resident Portal
All HOA websites should have a resident portal. This is a secure, private area where members can sign in to view important information. Through the resident portal of an hoa website, members should be able to view their accounts, pay fees, see maintenance schedules, and submit complaints or requests among other tasks. Each member needs to be able to create a secure login and password for the portal to which board members and other residences don’t have access.
Important Documents
Homeowner’s associations’ governing documents should also be made available through their websites. Those include the official declaration, bylaws, and rules and regulations. HOAs’ Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions need to be readily available to members as well. Other documents to include in the website are financial statements, meeting minutes, and architectural guidelines. Document requirements may vary by location, so it’s important to do your research to find out which ones are necessary in your area.
Contact Information and Form
Additionally, HOA websites should provide contact information for board members. They must also provide contact forms through which members can communicate with those in charge of their HOA. That makes it easier for members to submit their questions and concerns and provides a definitive record of their submission dates and responses or lack of such as the case may be. This can be particularly important if legal issues arise, but it’s always a good idea to have a solid record of communication between an HOA and its members.
Community Announcements and Events Calendar
Furthermore, an HOA website should include community announcements. Those might pertain to upcoming meetings, new amenities that are coming to the neighbourhood, changes in rules or fees, and other information members need to know. Displaying an events calendar and keeping it up to date is recommended as well. Alternatively, you could make note of upcoming events in the community announcements section of the website. Be sure to include dates, times, and other necessary details.
Creating an Inclusive Website for Your HOA
Though not all HOAs are required to have a website, it’s certainly a good idea. It’ll help keep members up to date on important events and information and give them a secure area through which to pay their fees along with other features. Including the right elements in the website is crucial. It’ll facilitate communication, support transparency, and help bring the community together.
