More than a destination at the end of the day, a community is a place people want to call home and where they feel at home. This goal is best achieved when homeowners, non-owner residents and association leaders recognize and accept their rights and responsibilities. This entails striking a reasonable balance between the preferences of individual homeowners and the best interests of the community as a whole. It is with this challenge in mind that CAI developed “Rights and Responsibilities for Better Communities.”

Homeowners have the right to:

• A responsive and competent community association.

• Honest, fair and respectful treatment by community leaders and managers.

• Participate in governing the community association by attending meetings, serving on committees and standing for election.

• Access appropriate association books and records.

• Prudent expenditure of fees and other assessments.

• Live in a community where the property is maintained according to established standards.

• Fair treatment regarding financial and other association obligations, including the opportunity to discuss payment plans and options with the association before foreclosure is initiated.

• Receive all documents that address rules and regulations governing the community association – if not prior to purchase and settlement by a real estate agent or attorney, then upon joining the community.

• Appeal to appropriate community leaders those decisions affecting non-routine financial responsibilities or property rights.

Homeowners have the responsibility to:

• Read and comply with the governing documents of the community.

• Maintain their property according to established standards.

• Treat association leaders honestly and with respect.

• Vote in community elections and on other issues.

• Pay association assessments and charges on time.

• Contact association leaders or managers, if necessary, to discuss financial obligations and alternative payment arrangements.

• Request reconsideration of material decisions that personally affect them.

• Provide current contact information to association leaders or managers to help ensure they receive information from the community.

• Ensure that those who reside on their property (e.g. tenants, relatives, friends) adhere to all rules and regulations.

For a complete listing of the CAI Rights and Responsibilities visit www.caionline.org.