Understanding the role of the HOA president is critical in ensuring accountability and attracting the right volunteers. The president’s job isn’t easy, so not everyone is cut out for it. Yet, learning the responsibilities that come with the position is a good first step.
What is an HOA President?
The homeowners association president leads the HOA board. They are the head honcho, the chief executive officer, and the top brass. That said, the HOA president works hand-in-hand with other board members. They can’t call the shots unilaterally.
Is an HOA President Required?
The requirement to elect an HOA president depends on state law and the governing documents.
In Virginia, an association structured as a nonstock corporation must follow the Virginia Nonstock Corporation Act. This Act requires corporations to have officers with titles as specified in the bylaws (Section 13.1-872).
Maryland has similar laws, but they are more specific. Under the Maryland Nonstock Corporations Act, associations organized as nonstock corporations must elect at least a president, a secretary, and a treasurer (Section 2–412).
Even if state laws are silent, an association’s governing documents may require it. Check the CC&Rs and bylaws to see whether electing an HOA president is mandatory.
What are the Duties of an HOA President?
The president of HOA duties can vary depending on the association, but they typically include leading meetings, representing the HOA, executing decisions, overseeing operations, working with other directors, delegating tasks, and signing documents.
1. Leads Meetings
One of the most common responsibilities of an HOA president is presiding over meetings. The president sets the agenda, guides board and membership meetings, and keeps discussions on track. If the HOA follows parliamentary procedure, the president usually has to recognize someone to officially give them the floor.
2. Represents the HOA
Another primary role of the HOA president is to represent the association. The president serves as the community’s face and spokesperson. They liaise with homeowners, HOA management companies, vendors, and local authorities. As a result, the president must exercise utmost professionalism at all times.
3. Executes Decisions
The HOA president generally implements the decisions or resolutions the board has passed. For example, if the board approves a landscaping project, the president oversees the vendor-hiring process and the project’s progress, typically with help from other directors or an HOA manager.
4. Oversees Operations
An association president supervises overall community activities and functions. This includes maintenance of common areas, committee projects, and other events. Generally, the president oversees operations with help from fellow officers or an HOA management company.
5. Working with Other Directors
The president does not act alone. Despite the job title, the president should not make decisions without collaborating with the rest of the board. Everyone on the board has an equal say and vote on issues, and the president must work well with other directors.
6. Delegating Tasks
The HOA president typically assigns specific tasks to other directors and officers. For example, the vice president is usually a fluid role, so the president may ask them to oversee various committees.
7. Signing Documents
As the HOA’s representative, the president generally co-signs contracts, checks, and documents. Their name appears on legal records, along with one other director (usually the secretary or treasurer).
Understanding HOA Board President Authority
While the president may be the board’s CEO, they don’t have unlimited authority. The president works with the rest of the board, so they can’t make decisions unilaterally. The board must vote on and approve a proposal before executing it.
This is where checks and balances come in. Board members must hold each other accountable and keep decisions within their authority. If the president steps out of line, the remaining directors must rein them in and remind them to stay within their boundaries.
How is the HOA Board President Chosen?
The HOA president is generally elected, but in some cases, appointment is allowed.
To become president, a homeowner must first meet all eligibility requirements. These requirements can vary depending on the association’s bylaws, but they usually include the following:
- Must own a lot or unit within the association
- Be current on all dues and assessments
- Be in good standing with the association
- Must not have pending litigation with the association
From there, the homeowner may submit a candidacy request for the next election. Once nominated, they may campaign for a position on the board. If the president’s seat is vacant, fellow board members may elect a newly minted director to fill the role.
In some cases, the president may resign before the end of their term. It’s also possible that no one wants to run for office. If these happen, some bylaws allow the rest of the board to appoint someone to the job, provided they meet eligibility requirements.
Does HOA President Get Paid?
Generally, the HOA president does not receive any kind of compensation in exchange for their service.
Board members are volunteers, which means they don’t get paid. That said, state laws and the association’s governing documents may permit a salary or a waiver of dues, but this is rare.
Certain legal protections apply to volunteers. If they receive compensation, they lose this protection and may become personally liable.
Can the HOA President Break Tie Votes?
Whether the HOA president has tie-breaking authority depends on state law and the governing documents.
Typically, the president possesses the same voting power as other board members (everyone gets one vote). In some associations, the president can break a tie with a second vote. This is called a casting vote.
Of course, a casting vote only comes into play if there’s an actual board tie vote. The president doesn’t automatically get two votes every time.
A Leader of the Community
The HOA president role can confuse owners, especially when the bylaws are unclear. While exact duties can change from one community to another, some general responsibilities remain the same. The president leads the board and guides meetings, decision-making, and operations.
Keymont Community Management offers expert management services to associations in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, DC. Call us today at 703.752.8300 or request a proposal to get started!
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