HOA Rules in Richmond, VA: What Residents Actually Need to Know
If you live in Richmond or are thinking about moving there, hoa rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Richmond has 5 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of hoa rules, and some of them might surprise you.
Assessment & Dues
HOAs may levy assessments per the recorded declaration under VA Code §55.1-1823. Liens attach automatically for unpaid assessments and may be foreclosed non-judicially after 90 days. Late fees capped at the greater of 50 dollars or 5 percent of the unpaid amount per month.
Key details: Lien statute: VA §55.1-1833. Late fee cap: 50 dollars or 5 percent. Disclosure: VA §55.1-1809. Foreclosure: Non-judicial allowed.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
CC&R Enforcement
Richmond HOAs enforce recorded covenants through fines up to 50 dollars per violation or 10 dollars per day for continuing violations under VA Code §55.1-1819. Owners must receive notice and a hearing before fines are imposed. Total fines cannot exceed 900 dollars per continuing violation.
Key details: Per violation: Up to 50 dollars. Per day: Up to 10 dollars. Total cap: 900 dollars. Hearing: Required.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Architectural Review
Under VA Code §55.1-1819, HOAs may enforce architectural standards through an ARC. Associations must adopt written rules, provide reasonable review timelines, and issue written decisions with reasons. Owners may appeal denials to the board.
Key details: Authority: VA §55.1-1819. Solar: VA §67-701 protections. US Flag: VA §55.1-1820.1. Appeal: Board level.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Dispute Resolution
Owner complaints against Richmond HOAs may be filed with the Virginia Common Interest Community Ombudsman after exhausting internal processes. Associations must adopt a written complaint procedure under VA Code §55.1-1828 and 18 VAC 48-70.
Key details: Ombudsman: CICB. Internal process: Required first. Regulation: 18 VAC 48-70. Attorneys fees: Recoverable.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
Board Procedures
Richmond HOAs are governed by the Virginia Property Owners Association Act (VA Code §55.1-1800 et seq.). Boards must hold at least one annual meeting, provide 14 days written notice, maintain minutes, and allow owner comment periods. Board meetings are open to members except for executive session matters.
Key details: Statute: VA §55.1-1800. Notice: 14 days. Open meetings: Required. Annual meeting: Mandatory.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
The Bottom Line
Richmond's hoa rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Richmond is broadly strict or permissive.
Keep in mind that Richmond can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.