Beginner's Flashcards

A board wishes to amend the CC&Rs of their community. This typically requires:

Answer: A supermajority vote of the total membership, often 67% or more

Amending CC&Rs is intentionally difficult and usually requires a high percentage of homeowner approval—commonly two-thirds or more—because they are foundational legal documents.

What is 'aging in place' and why is it relevant to community association managers?

Answer: The trend of older residents remaining in their homes longer, requiring accessibility accommodations

As populations age, managers must understand how to address accessibility needs, Fair Housing Act accommodations, and service modifications for elderly residents who stay in their homes.

Which scenario would most likely constitute selective enforcement by an HOA?

Answer: Enforcing a landscaping rule against one neighbor but ignoring the same violation by another

Selective enforcement occurs when rules are applied inconsistently against specific individuals, which can expose the association to discrimination claims and legal liability.

An HOA board wants to enter a multi-year contract with a landscaping company. What governance step is most important before signing?

Answer: Ensuring the board has authority under the governing documents and passes a formal board resolution

The board must confirm it has contractual authority under the governing documents and document its decision with a formal resolution to protect the association legally.

What does 'estoppel certificate' refer to in community association management?

Answer: A document confirming a homeowner's current assessment status and any outstanding balances at the time of a property sale

An estoppel certificate is issued by the association at closing to certify the amounts owed or paid by the seller, preventing later disputes about unpaid balances.

Under the Fair Housing Act, which of the following requests by a homeowner with a disability must generally be granted?

Answer: Installing a grab bar in their own unit bathroom at their own expense

The Fair Housing Act requires associations to allow reasonable modifications to a unit by a person with a disability, typically at the homeowner's expense.

What is the primary purpose of the CMCA credential for community association managers?

Answer: To demonstrate baseline professional competency and commitment to ethical community management

The CMCA credential, issued by CAMICB, validates that a manager possesses foundational knowledge and meets ethical standards required to professionally manage community associations.