Unlike a lot of other businesses, HOAs have the unique challenge of managing boundaries between volunteer board members and homeowners. The reason it is important to set boundaries between the HOA and homeowners is so that volunteer board members (and other volunteers) aren’t finding themselves constantly at the beck and call of homeowners.

Today we want to share three simple ways to establish boundaries and ensure a good “work/life” balance for board members.

  • Set office hours! The most common reason for homeowners ‘pestering’ board members is a lack of designated time for questions or conversations. The best way to make sure your board members aren’t pestered every time they walk outside is to share with homeowners when or how board members are to be communicated with. That way board members are never caught off guard and are able to deal with issues professionally.
  • Identify communication channels. Not all issues need to be brought before the whole board. Sometimes a homeowner may just have a quick question or suggestion, so make sure you provide a variety of communicating channels to choose from. This can include an email list, a suggestion box, or hosting a quarterly HOA open house meeting. Giving your community easy ways to reach you will cut down on the pestering.
  • Hire a Manager! Hiring a property management company is the best way to establish boundaries. It gives your homeowners a place to go, no matter what the issues is, and it protects volunteer board members from having their time disrespected. Having a manager also means there is a neutral third party to help mediate between homeowners and volunteers.

Setting boundaries may take time and a bit of work for your board, but in the end the work/life balance will be well worth the effort. As with any change, it won’t happen overnight, so remember to communicate clearly about changes with your community, and be patient as everyone adjusts.

Are you looking for a new HOA management company in San Antonio to help with the day-t0-day operations of your community? Contact Spectrum Association Management today for a free quote and see what makes our services refreshingly different!