Bay Area HOA Inspections & Reserve Studies

All HOAs possess at least two kinds of accounts for managing their finances. The first of these is for ongoing maintenance, including services such as complex cleaning, gardening, and extermination. The second account, known as the “reserve account,” is a special savings fund. This fund is founded on the knowledge that the complex will need major project work in the future, whether for roof replacement or foundation repair. 

To make sure appropriate funds are kept in the account, it is mandated that HOA owners conduct a reserve study. Civ. Code §5550 not only requires this of any type of association but also demands that this study is conducted by experts. The approximated costs must include potential repairs, as well as end-of-life replacements for all critical components. 

How Often Should Reserve Studies & Inspections Be Conducted?

According to Civ. Code §5550(a), the HOA’s board of directors must arrange for a reserve study every three years at the very least. The only exception is if the expenditures for total replacement make up less than half of the association’s gross budget. Inspections, on the other hand, do not have to be conducted until nine years are up. Nevertheless, just because studies and inspections are only mandated at certain dates does not mean this is necessarily the most beneficial. If unexpected events arise, such as a roof collapsing early, it is a good idea to reassess the funds set aside in the reserve. Alternatively, if the HOA inspection checklist shows that everything is maintained well, fewer resources might need to be allocated for the fund. 

Our skilled specialists at Frank Fiala Roofing, Inc. are prepared to work with HOA managers to arrange a plan that works best for their schedule and budget.