brown wooden hand tool on white printer paper The governing documents of a homeowner or condominium association in Washington State are important legal documents that outline the rights and responsibilities of homeowners and the association. They are typically comprised of four main documents:

  • Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs): This document establishes the fundamental rules and restrictions that apply to all homeowners in the community. It typically covers things like property use, maintenance responsibilities, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
  • Bylaws: This document outlines the internal structure and processes of the association. It specifies how the board is elected, meeting procedures, officer roles, and voting rights.
  • Articles of Incorporation: This document establishes the association as a legal entity. It outlines the association’s purpose, powers, and limitations.
  • Rules and Regulations: These are more specific rules that address day-to-day matters such as parking, noise levels, pet policies, and common area usage. Rules and regulations can be created and amended by the board within the framework set by the CC&Rs and bylaws.

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines, and the specific governing documents of your association may vary. If you have any questions about your association’s governing documents, you should consult with an attorney.