Most HOAs keep their rules and policies in their Declaration of Covenants and Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs). Sometimes referred to as the HOA covenant or the governing documents, depending on how an HOA is managed, they can be updated as needs arise.
If you're looking at homes in a managed community, your real estate agent can give you a copy to review before you buy.
Some basic rules and conditions a homeowner can expect to find in CC&Rs include:
Living and dwelling limitations (think: the home’s design, landscaping options, aesthetic exterior choices and the number of pets allowed) Use of liens How violations will be enforced or penalized Whether a home can be rented out short term or long term Expected fees (including annual fees and fines related to HOA rule violations)