Homeowner associations (HOAs) are organizations that oversee and enforce the rules for living in certain houses, condominiums, or other homes. You join an HOA and agree to its terms and fees when you buy a home in a community governed by one.
In North Carolina, HOAs are governed by a few statutes:
- North Carolina Planned Community Act
- North Carolina Condominium Act
- North Carolina Unit Ownership Act
- North Carolina Nonprofit Corporation Act (because every HOA must be incorporated as a nonprofit)
HOAs are not regulated by any state or federal government office, so if you have a dispute with your HOA, the best thing to do is consult with an attorney.
If you simply want more information about how HOAs operate, here are some resources that may help:
- Homeowners Protection Bureau – A nonprofit organization that answers HOA questions
- NC Real Estate Commission
- North Carolina chapter of the Community Associations Institute
- HOA FAQs – An extensive list of HOA-related questions and answers
Finally, according to the North Carolina Secretary of State, “sometimes there are local government ordinances that may apply to HOAs.” Thus, you could try contacting your mayor and/or city or county commissioner to discuss your concern.