My HOA bans pets over 40 pounds Is that legal?

HOA pet size restrictions generally must be waived when a resident has a legitimate service or assistance animal under the Fair Housing Act, which requires housing providers to make reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities. Courts have consistently ruled that allowing assistance animals—even in communities with strict pet rules or bans—is a reasonable accommodation if the animal is necessary for the resident’s use and enjoyment of their home. Because of this, weight or breed limits in HOA documents are often overridden when the animal is related to a disability. Although federal guidance on these issues was withdrawn in 2025, legal experts believe courts would likely still favor allowing assistance animals even if they exceed size restrictions.

Read More: Packerswire

Are Your HOA Fees Hiding a Tax Break?

Most homeowners cannot deduct HOA fees on their taxes if the property is their primary residence. However, deductions may be possible if the home is used for business purposes—such as a dedicated home office for self-employed individuals—or if the property is rented out, where HOA dues can be treated as a rental expense. In cases where only part of the home is used for business or rental purposes, the deduction must be prorated based on square footage or time rented. Additionally, special HOA assessments for repairs may be deductible, while those used for improvements may increase the home’s cost basis and potentially reduce capital gains taxes when the property is sold.

Read More: Realtor.com

The Art of the Professional Pivot: What to Do When the Board Disagrees with You

In community association management, disagreement isn’t a disruption—it’s part of the process. Whether you’re a seasoned manager recommending a course of action, or a Board member in the minority of a vote needing to support the decision, knowing how to move forward with professionalism and unity is essential.

At Association Management Group (AMG), we’ve learned over 40 years that strong communities aren’t built on always being “right.” They’re built on respectful collaboration, clear roles, and knowing when to bring in specialized expertise.

1. Your Opinion Is Professional—Not Personal

Every manager and Board member brings experience and perspective to a decision. One manager might urge a timely roof repair based on wear patterns; one board member might oppose a new rule change because neighbors are concerned about fairness.

When the Board ultimately votes in a direction you didn’t advocate, the transition from debate to support matters. The goal is not to win every argument—but to uphold the community’s collective decision with integrity.

This approach reflects Local Carolina Expertise and the humility that comes with professional maturity.

2. Know Where Expertise Begins—and Ends

The best leaders know when to connect the Board with specialized professionals.

• Legal ambiguity? Recommend a consultation with the association’s attorney.

• Structural or infrastructure concerns? Bring in a licensed engineer.

• Insurance questions? Connect with a dedicated risk specialist.

Imagine a community divided over a new parking enforcement policy. Rather than entrenching opinions, a manager coordinated a session with the association’s attorney and an insurance advisor. The expert input clarified liability concerns and helped the Board adopt a policy everyone could support going forward.

This kind of vendor coordination and documentation helps Boards make informed decisions and protects the association.

3. Stewardship Means Supporting the Decision

Once a decision is made—even one you didn’t vote for—your role is to help implement it clearly and consistently. Draft homeowner communication, schedule services, and ensure financial planning reflects the new direction using Transparent Financial Reporting.

This is especially meaningful for Board members in the minority: unified action maintains confidence and community cohesion. One Board member shared, “I didn’t vote for the approach—but once it passed, I made sure our communication was clear and consistent. That earned trust across the neighborhood.”

4. AMG’s Role: Connector, Steward, Trusted Advisor

At AMG, our CAI‑Accredited Management (AAMC®, PCAM®) professionals aren’t just administrators. They’re trusted partners who provide Board Empowerment Tools, facilitate discussions, and help communities navigate challenges with confidence.

We know that effective management isn’t about having the loudest voice—it’s about facilitating informed decision‑making and helping Boards translate choices into action.

Because in the end, the strength of a community isn’t measured by how often people agree, but by how effectively they move forward—together.

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Note: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, engineering, or financial advice. Boards should consult licensed professionals for guidance in those fields.

Backyard Chickens? Not Without HOA Approval

A Missouri judge has ruled that homeowners associations and local governments can once again regulate backyard chickens, overturning a 2024 state law that allowed property owners to keep up to six hens without restriction. The decision came after Four Seasons Lakesites, a large Lake Ozark community, sued the state, arguing the law interfered with reasonable HOA covenants. Judge Brian Stumpe found the law unconstitutional for violating Missouri’s “single subject” rule, rendering it invalid. The ruling is being hailed as a major victory for community associations and their right to self-govern.

Source: Komu

Should an HOA Get Involved in Rezoning Matters?

Understanding the Role of Community Associations in Local Development Decisions

The recent lawsuit by residents of New Irving Park in Greensboro, NC, challenging a rezoning decision that would allow eight townhomes in their single-family neighborhood, has raised important questions for homeowner associations (HOAs) and condominium boards. Should your HOA get involved in rezoning efforts? And if so, how? At Association Management Group (AMG), we believe that supporting board members in navigating these complex issues—without overstepping legal or governance boundaries—is part of our value as an accredited, advisory-focused management company. Below, we explore the considerations and the compliant, strategic role HOAs might play.

When and Why HOAs Might Consider Getting Involved

While HOAs are not land-use authorities, their boards may wish to monitor or engage in rezoning proposals that affect property values, neighborhood character, traffic patterns, or infrastructure use.

• Boards may choose to get involved when:

• Rezoning affects property values or the quality of life of homeowners.

• Density increases strain infrastructure, green space, or safety.

• The proposed use contradicts the original development intent that owners relied on when buying homes.

• The association is asked to weigh in by the city, developer, or residents.

How an HOA Can Engage—Without Overstepping

While it may be tempting for a board to speak on behalf of the community, it’s essential to remember that boards must operate within their legal and fiduciary boundaries. AMG helps boards:

• Coordinate with legal counsel to determine what the board is legally permitted to say or do.

• Organize owner forums or surveys to gauge community sentiment.

• Support homeowner education by sharing meeting notices or public hearing details.

• Refer questions to professionals, rather than interpreting zoning laws directly.

• Present well-organized information to the board to support transparent, documented decision-making.

What HOAs Should Avoid

To protect the association from liability or overreach, boards should avoid:

• Issuing blanket positions without a member vote or legal review.

• Making public statements that suggest authority they don’t have.

• Interpreting zoning law or city policies without attorney guidance.

• Engaging in political activity beyond the scope permitted by governing documents.

AMG’s Role: Support Without Overreach

As an accredited AAMC® firm (Accredited Association Management Company) by CAI, managing more than 30,000 homes across the Carolinas, AMG empowers boards with clear, compliant options. With a 4.7-star Google rating and average manager tenure over 10 years, our proven experience helps your board lead with confidence. Here’s what AMG does—and doesn’t do—when zoning issues arise:

• We support boards in understanding how proposed zoning changes may impact their community.

• We help coordinate with legal counsel, city departments, and homeowners.

• We facilitate communications, surveys, and meetings.

• We don’t offer legal opinions, make zoning decisions, or speak for the board without direction.

Final Thoughts: A Strategic, Thoughtful Approach

Whether your board chooses to engage in rezoning issues depends on your community's values, governing documents, and legal advice. But one thing is certain—boards should never navigate these situations alone. As one board president recently said: "AMG helped us stay organized and compliant when development came knocking on our doorstep. They gave us the tools—not just opinions."

Ready for Expert Support?

Schedule a Complimentary Management Assessment to see how AMG can help your board confidently lead through growth and change—without overstepping its authority.

Visit AMGworld.com/info-request-for-proposal to get started.

AMG is Often Asked, “What is a Commercial Vehicle” in an HOA? It Might Be Time to Clarify.

In many established communities, the covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs) were written decades ago—often before today’s mix of residents, vehicles, and lifestyles took shape. It’s not uncommon for HOA boards to find themselves facing gray areas when it comes to enforcing parking restrictions, especially around “commercial vehicles.”

When the Rules Are Vague, Enforcement Gets Risky

One of the most common enforcement challenges for HOA boards is defining what a “commercial vehicle” actually is. The term might be used in your governing documents—but if it’s not clearly defined, and it’s often not, you’re left navigating a moving target.

Here’s where it gets tricky: without a published, board-approved policy or definition, one resident’s work van might be considered acceptable while another’s wrapped SUV draws complaints. The result? Frustration, uneven enforcement, and potential conflict.

Consider These Key Questions

When reviewing or establishing rules around commercial vehicles, boards often ask:

• Is the concern the size of the vehicle, or the fact it’s used for work?

• Are visible logos or mounted equipment the issue?

• Should emergency vehicles like police cruisers or rescue units be treated differently?

• Are there clear safety or parking limitations that make certain vehicles impractical?

Every community is different. For some, aesthetics are the priority. Others focus on preserving space in limited parking areas. Either way, what matters most is consistency—and that starts with clarity and member engagement  

Boards May Have Options—But They Need a Clear Policy

If your CC&Rs don’t define what qualifies as a commercial vehicle, your board may have the authority to adopt community rules or a policy that fills in those gaps. These policies or rules can outline specific characteristics that are prohibited—such as exterior signage, ladder racks, oversized dimensions, or utility trailers.

Important: Coordinate with your HOA attorney to make sure any proposed policy aligns with your governing documents and applicable laws. A written, board-approved rule—especially if recorded or published formally—can go a long way in helping to ensuring enforcement is fair, transparent, and consistent.

How AMG Helps Boards Navigate the Gray Areas

At AMG, we are not lawyers but expert facilitators. We don’t provide legal advice. Instead, we assist you in finding the most effective lawyers for each specific matter, thereby saving you headaches, time, effort, and financial resources. AMG supports your board by helping you get organized around enforcement policies, coordinating with legal counsel when needed, and ensuring homeowners are clearly informed about the board’s decisions.

Our role is to streamline the process, document policies professionally, and support consistent communication and follow-up—always under the direction of the board.

Why Board-Led Policy Matters

• Protects the Board: A clear rule reduces ambiguity—and legal exposure—for board members making enforcement decisions.

• Respects Residents: Everyone knows the standard and can plan accordingly.

• Supports Uniformity: No guessing, no favoritism, no back-and-forth drama.

Ready to Simplify Parking Enforcement?

If your community is wrestling with vehicle rules or any other compliance gray area, AMG can help your board regain clarity and confidence. From policy coordination to documentation and communication support, our team delivers professional, high-touch service that makes self-governance less stressful—and more effective.

“AMG helped us establish a fair and enforceable vehicle policy that finally put an end to confusion and conflict. Their guidance was a game-changer for our board.”

— HOA Board Member, Greensboro, NC

Schedule a Complimentary Management Assessment

Let’s talk about what’s working—and what’s not—in your community. Get expert support without added stress.

Click here to schedule your Complimentary Management Assessment today.

HOA Ruining Your Life? 10 Unenforceable HOA Rules—and How You Can Fight Back

Living in an HOA community can come with great benefits like well-maintained amenities and neighborhood events, but it may also include absurd or unenforceable rules. Some HOA boards overstep their authority by violating legal boundaries or enforcing rules inconsistently, which can open them up to liability or lawsuits. Homeowners have rights protected by state and federal laws, such as the right to fair housing, privacy, and reasonable rule enforcement. If an HOA violates these rights or its own CC&Rs, residents can challenge the rules, request hearings, and even take legal action.

Source: Realtor.com

Can an HOA in SC give you a real speeding ticket?

HOAs in South Carolina have the authority to set speed limits on private roads, but they must obtain approval from the county sheriff and follow proper signage regulations. While HOAs cannot issue state-recognized speeding tickets or make arrests, they can enforce fines for speeding violations as part of their governing documents. Homeowners who receive a fine can dispute it through the HOA’s dispute resolution process, but refusal to pay could lead to further civil penalties, including potential foreclosure in extreme cases. Additionally, HOAs can hire private security or off-duty officers to patrol, but these officers can only issue citations on behalf of the HOA, not the state.

Source: TheIslandPacket

Pickleball Court Costs & HOA Considerations: What Association Leaders Need to Know

By Paul Mengert, CEO of Association Management Group

Thinking of adding a pickleball court to your HOA? Learn about costs, legal considerations, and community impact in this guide for association leaders.

Introduction: The Growing Demand for Pickleball in HOAs

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., and many homeowners’ associations (HOAs) are being asked whether to add courts to their communities. While new amenities can enhance property values and resident engagement, they also require careful financial planning, legal review, and member support analysis.

As the CEO of Association Management Group (AMG)—one of the Carolinas’ leading community association management firms—I frequently advise HOA boards on new amenity projects, including pickleball court construction. This blog provides a general cost breakdown, discusses court construction challenges, and highlights legal and financial considerations for association leaders.

Important Note: Pickleball court costs vary widely by location, surface material, and site conditions. This guide is intended as a starting point—HOA boards should consult legal, financial, and real estate experts before proceeding.

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Pickleball Court?

The cost of constructing a dedicated pickleball court ranges from $35,000 to $80,000. Several factors impact the final price:

1. Court Size & Layout

- Standard court (30' x 60'): $35,000–$50,000

- Larger court (34' x 64'): $40,000–$80,000

- Multi-court complexes save on per-court costs due to shared site preparation.

2. Surface Materials

- Post-Tension Concrete (Best Option) → $20,000+

- Rebar-Reinforced Concrete (Good Option) → $15,000+

- Asphalt (Budget Option) → $10,000+, but higher maintenance costs

- Acrylic Surfacing (Required for Playability) → $5,000–$15,000

3. Fencing & Lighting

- Chain-link fencing (4ft high) → $35 per linear foot

- Vinyl-coated fencing (10ft high) → $125 per linear foot

- Basic LED lighting → $2,500

- Tournament-quality lighting → $12,500

4. Site Preparation & Drainage

- Flat land → Lower costs

- Hilly terrain or poor soil → Adds $10,000+ in grading and drainage solutions

Converting a Tennis Court into Pickleball Courts

A cost-effective alternative is converting an existing tennis court into pickleball courts.

Multi-Use Court Benefits

- A single tennis court (78’ x 36’) can accommodate up to four pickleball courts.

- Dual-use lines allow tennis and pickleball play on the same surface.

- Portable pickleball nets enable easy switching between sports.

**Conversion Cost Estimate:**

- Painting pickleball lines → $1,000–$3,000

- Adjustable net systems → $150–$500 per court

- Total cost: Much lower than building a new court from scratch

Challenges & Considerations for HOA Pickleball Courts

1. Noise Concerns

Pickleball courts generate more noise than tennis due to the hard paddle-and-ball impact. This has led to complaints in some communities.

Mitigation Strategies:

- Locate courts away from homes

- Install noise-reducing barriers

- Restrict play hours

2. Legal & Liability Issues

HOA boards must review governing documents to ensure they can add a pickleball court without violating existing rules.

Consult legal counsel to determine:

- Whether a membership vote is required

- If insurance policies need coverage adjustments

- Any zoning restrictions that apply

3. Impact on Property Values

While amenities generally increase property values, a poorly planned court could do the opposite.

Best Practices:

- Consult real estate professionals for property value impact analysis.

- Survey homeowners to ensure broad support.

- Plan for long-term maintenance costs.

Assessing Community Support for Pickleball Courts

A common challenge HOA leaders face is vocal minority influence—a small but passionate group may push for a pickleball court, while the majority may not actually want or use it.

How to Gauge True Community Interest:

✔ Conduct surveys to measure overall resident support.

✔ Hold town hall meetings to discuss the pros, cons, and costs.

✔ Weigh input from real estate professionals, appraisers, and financial advisors.

Final Thoughts: Proceeding with Expert Guidance

Adding a pickleball court can be a valuable investment for a community, enhancing recreation, social engagement, and property appeal. However, it’s critical to:

✔ Consult an attorney for legal compliance.

✔ Engage real estate and valuation experts to assess impact on property values.

✔ Survey homeowners to ensure broad support for the investment.

✔ Plan for long-term maintenance and costs to protect the association’s financial health.

By taking a thoughtful, well-researched approach, community associations can make informed decisions that best serve their members both now and in the future.

For more insights on association management, amenities, and budgeting, visit www.AMGworld.com.

What Should Your Community Association Do If an Injury Occurs on Common Property?

When someone is injured on common property, it can be a stressful and potentially serious situation. The first priority is always the health and well-being of the injured person. As a board member, you or your management team should begin by providing empathy and immediate assistance. If the injury appears serious, call 911 right away and administer basic first aid if possible and safe to do so. Ensuring that emergency medical services are notified promptly is crucial in safeguarding the individual’s well-being.

Once the situation is under control, the next step is crucial but often overlooked: notify your community association’s insurance provider. This is where many well-meaning boards make costly mistakes by attempting to resolve the issue themselves. Here’s why promptly involving your insurance company is essential for associations in North and South Carolina.

Why Self-Help Solutions Can Be Risky

It may seem tempting to handle the situation within the board or management team. You might want to offer compensation or agree to cover medical costs out of goodwill. However, doing so can create unintended legal and financial consequences. Any statements made, promises given, or payments offered could be seen as admissions of liability. This can complicate the situation and expose your community to significant risks, including lawsuits or excessive claims.

A Cautionary Tale: When a Board Tried to Handle an Injury on Their Own

A few years ago, a resident named Sarah slipped on a wet spot near the pool in her community in Greensboro, NC. The board members on-site, wanting to help, quickly reassured Sarah that the association would cover her medical bills. They even offered her a small payment to cover initial expenses, thinking it would resolve the situation amicably.

However, things became more complicated than they realized. Sarah had a pre-existing ankle injury from years earlier, which contributed to the severity of her condition and the need for surgery. When the board later tried to argue that the injury was only partially related to the fall, their previous promises undermined their position. Since they had already offered compensation without involving the insurance company, the association was seen as having admitted full liability.

Without proper documentation or an official investigation, the insurance provider had limited options to defend the claim. The case ended up in court, and the association faced not only costly legal fees but a large settlement. This ultimately led to a special assessment on homeowners to cover the expenses.

This situation could have been avoided had the board followed protocol by offering immediate empathy and support while referring the claim to their insurance provider. By doing so, the association would have ensured a thorough investigation, accurate liability assessment, and professional claim management.

How Insurance Protects Your Association

Your insurance provider plays several key roles in managing incidents on common property:
1. Investigation and Evidence Collection: Adjusters and investigators can quickly gather the facts, ensuring an accurate and thorough understanding of the incident.
2. Liability Assessment: They determine whether the association may be held responsible and handle communications with the injured party.
3. Legal Defense: If the injury leads to a lawsuit, your insurance coverage typically includes legal defense. Without this protection, the association could face steep legal fees and court costs.
4. Settlement Negotiation: Insurers have extensive experience negotiating fair settlements, often achieving better outcomes than what a board might secure on its own.

Compliance with Policy Terms

Most insurance policies include provisions that require prompt notification of potential claims. Failure to comply can jeopardize coverage, meaning the association could be left paying out-of-pocket for damages, legal fees, or medical expenses. By reporting the incident immediately, you ensure that your association remains in compliance with its policy, protecting your financial interests.

What to Do After an Injury

Here’s a quick checklist for boards and community managers:
1. Prioritize Safety and Health: Provide first aid and call emergency services if needed.
2. Document the Incident: Record details such as the time, location, nature of the injury, and any witnesses.
3. Notify Your Insurance Provider: Report the incident promptly, allowing them to take over claim management.
4. Avoid Direct Negotiations: Refrain from making promises, admitting fault, or offering compensation. Leave all communications regarding liability to your insurance company.
5. Follow Up: Work with your insurance provider and management team to stay updated on the claim’s progress.

Final Thoughts

As a community association board member, you have a fiduciary duty to protect the association’s resources and legal standing. Accidents can happen, but how you respond can make all the difference. By prioritizing the injured person’s health and promptly involving your insurance provider, you minimize risks, protect your community, and ensure that the situation is handled professionally and compassionately.

At Association Management Group, we specialize in helping associations in Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Charlotte, and Greenville develop effective risk management procedures. Our experienced team works closely with communities to ensure they’re prepared for any situation that may arise.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your community!

Can an HOA in SC make you take down your Christmas lights and decorations when it wants?

Homeowners in neighborhoods with HOAs should be mindful of restrictions on holiday decorations, as most HOAs limit the time they can remain up. Columbia attorney Kathleen McDaniel notes that HOAs can regulate outdoor decorations, flags, and displays if allowed by their restrictive covenants, which commonly include such provisions. HOAs help maintain community standards, which can boost property values.

In South Carolina, about 25% of homes are under HOA regulation, and many allow holiday lights from 30 days before the holiday until the second week of the new year. Non-compliance may result in fines. The South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs oversees HOA-related complaints but lacks enforcement power, instead tracking and reporting issues to the General Assembly.

Read More: TheState