Your HOA board does more than make decisions—it lays the foundation for a strong, thriving community.
What Do HOA Board Members Actually Do?
The short answer: a lot. Board members help shape policies, manage finances, support residents, and oversee the day-to-day operations that keep the community running smoothly.
1. Fiduciary Duties
Board members are expected to act with care, loyalty, and integrity—always putting the community first. That includes:
- Duty of Care: Making informed, thoughtful decisions by reviewing materials, attending meetings, and understanding the issues.
- Duty of Loyalty: Prioritizing the HOA’s interests over personal gain and avoiding conflicts of interest.
- Duty of Obedience: Following the community’s governing documents and staying compliant with local and state laws.
2. Financial Oversight
Managing the association’s finances is one of the board’s most critical roles. That means:
- Creating and approving the annual budget
- Setting assessments (dues) fairly and transparently
- Ensuring reserve funds are in place for long-term repairs or capital improvements
Learn more: Financial Success Starts with Responsible Budgeting
3. Administrative & Operational Responsibilities
From enforcing community rules to coordinating maintenance, boards keep things running. This includes:
- Hiring and overseeing a management company
- Reviewing vendor contracts
- Handling resident concerns or violations professionally and consistently
Board Roles Explained
Each position on the board plays a distinct role in day-to-day governance:
- President – Leads meetings, sets agendas, and often acts as the board’s spokesperson.
- Vice President – Supports the president and steps in when needed. May lead specific initiatives.
- Secretary – Maintains records, minutes, and documents.
- Treasurer – Oversees budgeting, reserve funding, and financial reporting.
How Decisions Get Made
A well-run board uses clear processes to make decisions that benefit the entire community.
Board Meetings
Held regularly to discuss updates, review finances, and make decisions. These should follow your HOA's formal protocols and be open for homeowner input.
Committee Collaboration
Committees (like landscape, architecture, or social events) help lighten the load and bring more voices into the conversation.
Strategic Planning
Boards that think long-term set a positive course for the community. This includes setting goals for amenities, improvements, and financial health.
Ethical Leadership Matters
Being a board member isn’t just about doing the job—it’s about doing it the right way.
- Transparency – Keep homeowners informed with regular updates.
- Accountability – Own your decisions and be responsive to feedback.
- Fairness – Treat all homeowners equally and apply rules consistently.
Related read: How to Be an Effective HOA Board Member: Roles, Responsibilities & Best Practices (link to internal article that needs to be posted)
Strong Boards Build Strong Communities
Board service is one of the most meaningful ways you can give back to your neighborhood. And you don’t have to do it alone. At Crummack Huseby, we offer trusted guidance, clear processes, and personalized support—so your board can lead with confidence and integrity.
Ready to lead with clarity and confidence?
Let Crummack Huseby be your trusted partner in building a stronger, more connected community. Contact us today to learn how we can support your board’s goals.
About Crummack Huseby
Crummack Huseby is an award-winning property management and consulting firm serving homeowners associations and builder communities across Southern California. Since 1999, we’ve partnered with HOA boards, developers, and homeowners to provide personalized management, strategic guidance, and exceptional service. Our team believes in building strong relationships, transparent communication, and custom solutions that help communities thrive.
To learn more about how we can support your HOA or builder project, click here.
