Complex Documents. Defined Simply.
Whether you're a seasoned board member or serving your first term, knowing the
purpose each governing document is meant to fulfill ensures that all community
members are on the same page. Because the names of the three main governing
documents – Codes, Covenants and Restrictions (CC&Rs), Bylaws, and Rules and
Regulations don't detail all of the nuances that these documents hold, we reached
out to our VP of Government Affairs, John Krueger, for clarification.
"Residents new to association living and even some inexperienced board
members can get overwhelmed by their community's documents. While it's
important for association board members and residents to read and understand
all of their association's documents, a good way to differentiate them is by
remembering that the Codes, Covenants and Restrictions (known as the CC&Rs)
are the legally filed documents that establish the association, the community and
the expectations of the residents. Usually, they also provide a legal description of
the common areas and amenities along with the process of levying and collecting
assessments. The Bylaws establish the board of directors and their selection as
well as the process of governance of the community. The Rules establish more
specific regulations of the association and its members. There are also different
procedures used to change any of these documents. The CC&Rs and the Bylaws
usually require approval of a specific percentage of residents, while the Rules can
normally be changed by a majority vote of the board. In the end, knowledge and
engagement by an association's members are key to a well-run association."
— John Krueger, VP of Government Affairs
Quick and Easy Guide to Decoding Your Governing Documents
