Election Check: An Insider’s Guide to HOA Elections
Community living is oh-so-easy—but while enjoying the many perks of this lifestyle, residents tend to overlook what goes on behind the scenes. Back there, your association’s board of directors is hard at work maintaining the community and keeping operations on track. But how are these board members chosen, and what role do you play in the selection process? If you have questions about the HOA election process, read on for answers!
What Is an HOA Election?
An HOA election is the formal process of selecting HOA board members to lead your community. Volunteer residents run for one of the available positions—typically president, vice president, secretary, or treasurer—and campaign for votes. Every association is unique, so elections can look different from one community to the next. However, there’s always an official voting process to designate who will take roles and serve on the board.
When and How Often Do HOA Elections Happen?
When and how often do elections happen? The short answer is once a year. Communities usually elect a new board of directors during the annual meeting, when the majority of residents are present. But there are exceptions. Some associations hold elections every two or three years, and there could be special elections if a position opens unexpectedly. Your relevant laws and governing documents will have additional information on when and how often elections happen.
Who Gets to Vote in an HOA election?
Who gets to vote in an HOA election? Here’s the exciting part—you! Those who own property in an association get to choose who sits on their HOA’s board of directors. Because owners understand their community’s needs more than anyone, it only makes sense that they vote for the candidates they trust to make the best decisions. A certain percentage of owners must vote for the HOA election to be valid, making your participation vital. If an owner can’t vote themselves, your association may allow proxy voting, which means an appointed person can cast your vote on your behalf. Check your community’s rules to learn who that appointed person can be.
Where Does HOA Voting Take Place?
Where does voting take place? In many communities, residents fill out a physical ballot and submit their votes in person wherever the annual meeting is held. The votes are then tallied to determine the winners. Some associations use mail-in ballots, electronic ballots, or online voting methods to make voting convenient for busy residents.
Keep an eye out for HOA election announcements, including specifics on where you’ll vote. Of course, you can check your governing documents or ask current leaders for guidance, too.
How Does an HOA Election Work?
Association elections take careful planning and attention to detail to go off without a hitch. Luckily, your community will have voting procedures to ensure everything goes smoothly. Here’s what happens during an election:
- Election announcements. A few weeks before the HOA election, you’ll receive an announcement about the upcoming vote. Mark your calendar and plan on attending the meeting to vote.
- Campaigning. In some communities, candidates campaign for residents’ votes. You may get candidate information in the mail or even see that person around the neighborhood sharing insights and goals as the election date approaches.
- The voting process. Election day is here! Whether you vote at the annual meeting, have a proxy, or use an online platform, follow your association’s rules so your vote counts.
- Vote tallying. After the election ends, the final votes are totaled, and winners are announced. Bigger communities may partner with a third-party company for assistance.
- Leadership transition. Your association should have a transition plan to help new HOA board members find their footing and keep projects moving forward.
Why Do HOA Elections Matter?
Strong leadership is the backbone of every community. The HOA board is tasked with key duties, such as handling finances, enhancing existing amenities, spearheading projects, managing committees, and promoting residential harmony. If leaders lack experience or a passion for the job, it can affect your community in more ways than one. An association election isn’t just a formality—it’s your opportunity to steer the community in the right direction. Supporting the candidates who align with your goals can shape the association into a thriving community for years to come.
Running for an HOA Board Position
Thinking about running for your association’s board? Great idea! Communities always need qualified candidates to join in on the fun. Here’s a quick checklist to help you get started on your HOA election journey:
- Know the issues. Attend meetings and talk to current HOA board members about the issues that matter most to your community.
- Understand the process. Dust off your governing documents and dig into association rules and election guidelines.
- Be prepared. Learn about the position you’re running for and the duties you’ll be expected to fulfill.
- Connect. Put yourself out there! Go to events and talk to other residents to build trust and visibility within the community.
- Follow the rules. Respect and adhere to official election, nomination, and voting procedures.
- Generate enthusiasm. Hype up the election and confirm residents know when, where, and how to vote.
Reasons to Run for the Board in Your Next HOA Election
Now you’ve learned all about the HOA election process and what you should do if you’re considering running. Still hesitant? We’ve got even more reasons for you to put your name in your next HOA election. Check out our list of “7 Reasons Why You Should Join Your HOA Board” today for more information!
HOA Election FAQs
How to find an HOA election inspector?
In some states, the law requires that HOAs hire election inspectors to conduct an independent, unbiased vote for their board members. To find a good HOA elections inspector, associations should seek someone with:
- Professional memberships related to their job
- Strong knowledge of election laws
- Listed experience and references
HOA election how often?
Most HOAs hold elections annually, but some hold elections every two to three years or multiple times in a year due to special circumstances.
How to hold an HOA election?
Most HOA board elections are run under the same process to ensure fairness and consistency across election cycles. Typically:
- A few weeks before the election, you’ll receive an announcement about the upcoming vote.
- Candidates campaign for residents’ votes
- Members of the association vote on election day, usually at the annual meeting, through a proxy, or by using an online platform
- After the election ends, the final votes are totaled, and winners are announced
- A transition plan helps new board members find their footing and keeps projects moving forward
How to vote for HOA board members?
Voting for HOA board members usually happens in one of three ways:
- The vote is a part of the HOA’s annual meeting
- Community members who can’t attend the vote submit their vote by proxy (allowing someone who can attend to vote on their behalf)
- Community members are given the option to vote online