What is considered common area?

In the property management world, common area is a widely talked about topic, especially in the HOA space. Within Homeowners Associations, a maintenance issue either falls under the umbrella of common area or the homeowner. Every HOA has a set of CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions). Within this extensive document lies all the rules of the HOA.

A section of the CC&Rs highlights the distinction of maintenance issues contrasting homeowner’s responsibilities and common area issues. If an issue is within the common area then the HOA will be the responsible party to pay and rectify the matter. Although every HOA is unique in certain ways, majority of the specifications are similar.

Typically, any fixtures, building material or tangible items inside the walls of a given unit will fall under the responsibility of the homeowner. Hence, the space outside of the walls will fall within the responsibility of the HOA. All of this sounds complicating, however with the proper resources & research, you can be on your way to becoming an expert.

One vital resource that governs most of these types of laws is the Davis-Stirling Act. This act points out all details regarding Communities & community management companies. If you are part of a board, you are highly advised to familiarize yourself with the Davis-Stirling Act, even if you do have a community management company.

Need an HOA Management company in Los Angeles that is an expert in interpreting CC&Rs as well as all other laws? Please contact us.