BASIC HOA TERMS & DEFINITIONS
Before we introduce the questions, it's important to review some words and phrases that are unique to HOA
communities. Below are definitions of the most commonly used HOA terms to help homeowners better
understand their new association.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
To function correctly, an HOA is required to have a
board of directors. This board is authorized to act on
a community's behalf to create and enforce
community guidelines and maintain shared spaces.
Boards consist of volunteer homeowners from the
community who are elected into the position by other
members of the association.
BOARD MEMBER
Volunteers serving on the HOA board are called board
members. Every board includes four central officer
positions—president, vice president, treasurer, and
secretary.
QUORUM
A quorum is the minimum number of owners required
to be present to hold an official meeting for the
association. Having a proper quorum is critical any
time an HOA board wants to conduct official business,
change rules, or vote on new board officers.
FIDUCIARY RESPONSIBILITY
Fiduciary responsibility means the board has an
ethical and moral obligation to make decisions for the
benefit of everyone in the community, not just for a
single home.
GOVERNING DOCUMENTS
This collection of documents includes the declaration,
bylaws, operation rules, articles of incorporation,
and other materials which govern the day-to-day
operation of the HOA.
