What are CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions)

When many homeowners use the term CC&R, they refer to either of two different things:  

 - The rules of a planned community, or 

 - The HOA document called the Declaration of CC&Rs. 

These rules help regulate various aspects of communal living.

Some of the most common CC&R's include but are not limited to:

- How you maintain your home. 

- Exterior home decor.

- Garbage storage.

- Vehicle parking. 

- Keeping pets. 

- Usage of common areas.

- Parties and social gatherings. 

The HOA enforces CC&Rs and monitor compliance towards rules and regulations through regular inspections. Inspections are, typically, carried out by the property management and the HOA Board of Directors, who reviews how well properties follow the rules and regulations of the association and notifies property owners about any possible violations. The property management team will then notify any homeowner about violations found in their homes. They will inspect whether the violations have been resolved on the next inspection. 

- Verbal or written notices. 

- Fines. 

- Reduction of community privileges.

- Lawsuits.

To summarize:   

- CC&Rs are a legally binding document that regulates what you, as a property owner, can and cannot do with your property.  

- CC&Rs are enforced by the homeowners association (HOA). 

- All properties in the community must abide by the area’s CC&Rs. When buying a property in an HOA community, you will have to sign a document stating that you have read the CC&Rs and agree to abide by them.  

- CC&Rs define how properties can be used and maintained in the community. HOAs might also put in place rules and regulations regarding pets, vehicle parking, and social gatherings.  

- CC&Rs are enforced through property inspections. Failing to abide by the CC&Rs might result in verbal or written warnings, penalties, and even a lawsuit.