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How do I know if my HOA is voluntary?

My condo has an HOA. I don’t know if I want to join it, but I’ve heard they’re usually voluntary or mandatory. How do I know if my HOA is voluntary?

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Emily Maracle · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
You’re right! There are two types of HOAs or homeowners associations. To know whether your HOA is voluntary, you’ll need to reach out to your board.
In all likelihood, if you haven’t been asked to pay fees or sign a contract upon moving into your home, your HOA is voluntary. If you move into a home with a mandatory HOA, you’d be required to pay dues immediately and sign a contract regarding membership and HOA bylaws.
Most HOAs are mandatory, especially for condos or gated communities. That said, if you’re simply renting a home, the owner may be a member of a mandatory HOA, but as a renter, you don’t have any responsibility beyond following the bylaws or rules in your lease.
If you’re still unsure about the status of your HOA, you can find the contact information for your board and find out whether it’s voluntary.
Regardless of whether your HOA is voluntary or mandatory, it’s important that you have the right
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to protect your home.
If you want to save money on home, renters, or car insurance, the
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