The Challenges of Pets and HOAs

by rcpmanagemedev, February, 15 2023

The Challenges of Pets and Homeowners Associations (HOAs)

Welcoming pets into association communities is not an easy task. Many homeowners’ association (HOA) communities are struggling to find a balance between accommodating pets and maintaining community standards. RCP Management, a property management company, is well aware of the challenges that HOAs face in managing pets and has identified several key issues that should be incorporated into clear policies.

Pet Registration
One way to keep track of animals in an HOAs and maintain rule implementation is to know how many animals live in a community. Associations can ask new homeowners to register their pets. This allows for the HOA to easily monitor the animals and follow up with homeowners who violate policies. It also makes it easy to maintain pets’ vaccinations schedules.

Manage Noise 
One of the biggest challenges is managing noise. Pets can be noisy, especially dogs, and their barking can disturb. This is a problem in densely populated communities where homes are close together. RCP Management suggests that HOAs can address this issue by implementing rules that require pet owners to control their pets’ noise levels. This may include mandating training and requiring them to use anti-bark collars.

Manage Waste
Pet owners must clean up after their pets, but some pet owners do not always comply. RCP Management recommends that HOAs enforce pet waste cleanup rules by imposing fines for non-compliance. Additionally, some HOAs have installed pet waste stations throughout their communities.

HOAs should also consider potential property damage caused by pets. This can include damage to landscaping, common areas, and even other homeowners’ property. To address this, RCP Management suggests that HOAs require pet owners to carry liability insurance and that they establish clear guidelines for reimbursing homeowners for any pet-related property damage.

Managing pets in HOAs requires a delicate balance between accommodating pet owners and maintaining community standards. By addressing these challenges HOAs can create a harmonious community where both pet owners and non-pet owners can coexist. RCP Management is committed to helping HOAs find solutions to these challenges.

RCP’s team of management professionals have extensive experience and industry knowledge when it comes to managing everything from high-rise condominium communities to HOA’s and beyond. Contact us today and learn how we can help.