Bylaws

Bylaws are created by a community's homeowners' association to govern activities in the community and to protect the value of the estates. For example, the homeowners' association could have a bylaw stating that homeowners need to maintain their yard or outside appearance of their home. Bylaws are often created to ensure that the neighborhood does not lose value because of any one home falling into disrepair. A home that becomes an eyesore decreases the value of other homes that are near it. The bylaws may also state which areas of the community are "common areas" and, therefore, do not belong to any one specific homeowner. Examples of a common area in a planned community could be a tennis court or swimming pool. Most bylaws follow local and state guidelines but may adapt based on the needs of the community.