Breaking Down HOA Landscaping Duties: Yours vs. Theirs

As an owner of a Homeowners Associations (HOA) you know that when it comes to landscaping, you need to follow one of two models. Knowing which type your community subscribes to makes all the difference in understanding who maintains your yard, who makes design decisions, and what your personal responsibilities are. At Blade Runner Landscapes we are ready to serve in the model that works best for your HOA.

1. Full-Service HOA Communities

In this model, the HOA contracts with a professional landscaping firm to care for individual home lots—often including front yards, side yards, and sometimes even backyards. Homeowners pay monthly or quarterly fees that cover the following:

• Routine Lawn Care & Plantings
  Mulching, mowing, edging, fertilization, seasonal color rotations, and shrub pruning are all handled on a schedule set by the HOA.
• Uniform Aesthetic
  The board may choose a consistent palette of flowers, shrubs, and hardscape elements. This ensures a cohesive streetscape and can boost curb appeal across the entire neighborhood.
• No-Work Perk
  This arrangement is especially popular with retirees, busy professionals, or anyone who prefers a turnkey approach. Homeowners enjoy a well-groomed yard without lifting a finger.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Zero upkeep burden for homeowners
• Consistent, high-quality appearance
• Often includes pest control and irrigation maintenance

Cons:

• Limited customization—individual homeowners cannot alter plantings or layouts
• Higher HOA dues to cover comprehensive services
• Potential conflicts if neighbors have differing aesthetic preferences

2. Common-Area Only HOA Communities

Under this model, the HOA’s landscaping contractor is responsible for shared spaces only—entrances, parks, sidewalks, amenity areas, and right-of-ways. Homeowners assume full responsibility for their private yards, with options to:

• DIY or Hire Independently
  Homeowners can maintain their own lawns or choose any landscaper they prefer. The HOA may offer an “in-house” option at a discounted rate, but it isn’t mandatory.
• Follow CC&R Guidelines
  Despite full control, homeowners must still comply with the HOA’s covenants regarding approved plant species, xeriscape limits, irrigation methods, and hardscape features.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Greater freedom to customize your yard
• Potential cost savings by shopping for competitive landscaping bids
• Flexibility to implement personal design ideas

Cons:

• Homeowners bear the time and expense of yard maintenance
• Risk of non-compliance with HOA rules resulting in fines or required re-work
• Variable quality if using non-vetted contractors

Finding Your Fit

To determine which model applies to your neighborhood, review your HOA’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) or speak with your board. Key indicators include:

• HOA Fee Structure: Higher dues often imply full-service yard care.
• CC&R Language: Look for phrases like “the association shall maintain…yards” versus “homeowner is responsible for…yards.”
• Service Contracts: Ask whether your HOA’s landscaping contract includes private lots or is limited to common areas.

Making the Most of Your HOA’s Model

• Full-Service Communities: Engage with your HOA board during plant-selection meetings. Express preferences early in the planning cycle.
• Common-Area Only Communities: Vet contractors thoroughly. Ensure any landscaper you hire understands your HOA’s rules and will maintain detailed records to demonstrate compliance.

Understanding whether your HOA handles private yards or only the common areas empowers you to plan, budget, and communicate effectively. Whichever model you belong to, a clear grasp of roles and responsibilities lays the groundwork for a beautiful, harmonious community.

If you’re unsure which landscaping responsibilities fall under your HOA or you’re looking for professional support to maintain your community’s standards, we’re here to help. Contact us at 512-222-2200 or reach out to Bobby Montagne directly at bobby@bladerunneratx.com. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation and get personalized guidance tailored to your HOA’s needs. Let’s keep your neighborhood looking its best—together.