1. Know the Rules

Follow your HOA’s restrictive covenants, by-laws, and rules. 

(Minnesota Statutes, chapter 515B, Minnesota Common Interest Ownership Act, (MCIOA) applies to all common interest communities created in Minnesota on or after June 1, 1994, except as provided by law, and may apply to common interest communities created in Minnesota before June 1, 1994.) 

2. Pay Assessments on Time

Unpaid assessments can lead to fines, liens, or foreclosure.

(See Minnesota Statutes, section 515B.3-115, 515B.3-1151, and 515B.3-116)

3. Respond to HOA Communications

Don’t ignore notices about violations or fines. HOA boards should manage the community in accordance with the law fairly and consistently, which sometimes means placing liens or even foreclosing if assessments or fines aren’t paid. A small $50 fine can quickly grow into $500 or even $5,000 once legal fees are added. Taking care of issues early can save stress and money.

(See Minnesota Statutes, sections 515B.3-102 and 515B.3-116)

4. Maintain Your Property

Keep your property in compliance with community standards.

(See Minnesota Statutes, section 515B.3-102)

5. Get Architectural Approval Before Improvements

Changes to exterior may require prior approval. This could include sheds, fences, above-ground pools, playground equipment, paint colors, door styles, landscaping, and mailboxes.

(See Minnesota Statutes, sections 515B.3-102 (a)(1) and 515B.3-102 (a)(16))

6. Know the HOA’s Responsibilities 

Associations must follow state law, hold proper elections, maintain fiduciary duties, and allow members to inspect records. Please note, there will likely be fees if you are requesting copies of records.

(See Minnesota Statutes, sections 15B.3-103, 515B.3-110, and 515B.3-118)

7. Stay Informed & Participate

In most instances, you may attend meetings and review minutes. You may also volunteer for committees.

(See Minnesota Statutes, sections 515B.3-106 and 515B.3-108)

8. Maintain Current Contact Information

Ensure the HOA can contact you, even if you don’t live there full-time. This applies to rental properties, second homes, investment properties, or homes used by college-aged children or retired parents.

9. Ensure Tenant/Occupant Compliance

If your property is rented or used by others, make sure they follow HOA rules, including parking, pets, property modifications, and use of common areas like pools, playgrounds, tennis courts, and parking lots.

(See Minnesota Statutes, section 515B.3-102)

10. Know Who is in Charge

Keep current contact information for a board member, property manager, or builder/developer. This ensures you can reach someone when needed.

(See Minnesota Statutes, sections 515B.3-101 and 515B.3-103)

The Minnesota Department of Commerce does not provide legal advice to consumers or associations. The information presented in this document is for informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice.