The health of a homeowner association is important to measure from time to time. Fortunately, even poor health is curable but identifying the problem precedes the cure. Here are a series of self-diagnosis questions to help you out:
1. Are all board meetings open to members?
Yes___ No___
2. Are all rules necessary, reasonable, uniformly enforced and include a right of appeal?
Yes___ No___
3. Do owners have an opportunity for input before or during board meetings?
Yes___ No___
4. Are draft board meeting minutes made available to members within 1-2 weeks?
Yes___ No___
5. Do new owners receive informational packets to get them started on the right foot?
Yes___ No___
6.Is there an Owner Forum provided at board meetings to allow member comment?
Yes___ No___
7. Does your HOA have and follow a Reserve Study (30 year plan to schedule periodic repairs and replacements like painting, roofing, etc.?
Yes___ No___
8. Does the board consult with an knowledgeable HOA attorney when proposing to new policies or rules?
Yes___ No___
9. If self managed, does the HOA have a reliable system for emergency response?
Yes___ No___
10. Do you have a reliable volunteer recruitment program?
Yes___ No___
11. Does the board compile and distribute an Annual Planning Calendar?
Yes___ No___
12. Are regular financial statements reviewed by the board and then made available to the members?
Yes___ No___
13. Are HOA records (other than highly sensitive ones like collections, litigation, contracts under negotiation) available for inspection by members?
Yes___ No___
14. Is a newsletter distributed on a regular basis?
Yes___ No___
15. Are rules and architectural guidelines that are easily available to the owners? And,
Yes___ No___
16. Are they written in a positive tone to encourage compliance rather than dictatorial that promotes defiance?
Yes___ No___
17. Do your members receive timely notice of rules and policies affecting their lifestyle or ownership responsibilities?
Yes___ No___
18. Are members kept informed of ongoing litigation?
Yes___ No___
19. Are members given a chance to comment on proposed rules and policies?
Yes___ No___
20. Does the HOA have a website to archive HOA information and for communication purposes?
Yes___ No___
Now add up the “Yes” answers. If you totaled 15-20, you're on track with only a few tweeks needed. If you are 10-14, you've got work to do. If 9 or less, roll up your sleeves for a major overhaul. This survey could serve as the basis for an excellent Board Planning Retreat. It hits on many things that smooth out HOA business. Or with some creative rewording, it could be turned into a questionnaire to be distributed to the members for comment. Requesting feedback is an important step to promoting volunteers. Dr. HOA says "Heed the prescription and heal thyself!"
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