Who Can Run For The Board? Understanding HOA Board Nominations

Every association election begins with an HOA board nomination process. Before owners can cast their votes, the HOA must determine who can run, how candidates are nominated, and what steps the association must follow. Understanding these rules can help the community run a fair and consistent election.

 

What is an HOA Board Nomination?

An HOA board nomination is when someone puts a homeowner’s name forward as a candidate for election.

Depending on state laws and the association’s governing documents, owners may nominate themselves or another eligible member. Nominations usually take place before the HOA election. Procedures can vary, but most communities require candidates to submit a nomination form and meet eligibility requirements.

 

Who Can Be on HOA Board?hoa board nomination process

In general, any member in good standing may run for a position on the board, but qualifications can still vary depending on state laws and the governing documents. For instance, in Florida, Section 720.306 allows any member to serve on the board except delinquent owners.

Common eligibility requirements include:

  • Membership. The person must generally be an HOA member, meaning they own a home or unit in the community.
  • Good Standing. Some associations require candidates to be current on dues and assessments.
  • Age Requirements. Some bylaws require board members to be adults.
  • No Disqualifying Conditions. Certain legal circumstances may prevent a person from running, such as being in active litigation with the HOA or having past criminal convictions that would hinder the association from securing fidelity insurance.

 

How to Nominate HOA Board Members

There are several ways to nominate a candidate, including self-nomination, nomination by another member, nomination through the HOA nomination committee, floor nominations, and write-in nominations. The association’s governing documents determine which methods are permitted.

Let’s discuss each one below.

 

1. Self-Nomination

This method allows homeowners to nominate themselves for an open board position. Self-nominations work well because interested homeowners can simply throw their hat into the ring without waiting for someone else to submit their name. To self-nominate, the owner may need to complete a particular form.

 

2. Nomination by Another Member

Homeowners may nominate another eligible member to run for the board. Depending on the rules, the nominee may need to accept the nomination before officially running. It is possible that a nominee may not want to serve on the board and reject the nomination.

Some associations require owners to submit the HOA board candidate nomination in writing. Meanwhile, others allow verbal nominations from the floor.

 

3. HOA Nomination Committee

Some HOAs appoint a nominating committee. This committee is responsible for identifying and recruiting potential candidates. It’s particularly helpful for communities that struggle to attract volunteers.

Nominations by this committee generally work the same way. They must submit the nomination in writing, usually along with the nominee’s written acceptance. Sometimes, the committee is only given advisory authority, providing the board with a list of qualified candidates.

 

4. Floor Nominationshoa candidate nomination form (please make one)

Some associations allow owners to nominate candidates from the floor. Floor nominations can take place either at a scheduled meeting before the actual elections or during the election meeting itself. In the latter case, those who have already submitted their ballots may no longer vote for candidates nominated from the floor.

 

5. HOA Write-in Nomination

A write-in nomination allows a voter to manually enter the name of an owner who isn’t included in the official list of candidates. If an HOA allows write-in candidates, paper ballots must include a blank line, and electronic ballots must include a text box for voters to enter their choices.

Of course, when counting votes, it is important to verify the write-in candidate’s eligibility. Even if they secure enough votes to win, they can’t be counted if they don’t qualify for the position.

 

What are the Steps in the HOA Board Nomination Process?

The HOA board nomination process includes the following steps: reviewing the governing documents, announcing the election and opening nominations, collecting candidate nominations, verifying candidate eligibility, and publishing the final candidate list. From there, the election can proceed as normal.

 

1. Review the Governing Documents

Before opening nominations, the HOA board or election committee must confirm the requirements and procedures set forth in the governing documents. These documents may establish which board seats are up for election, who may qualify as a candidate, and the process and deadline for nominations.

Additionally, the bylaws or election rules typically address the nomination methods that the HOA may use. For example, an HOA may not allow floor nominations if candidates are pre-nominated before the election meeting proper. These documents may also determine if a nominating committee is required.

It is important to establish written nomination rules and procedures that the HOA must follow every year. Changing these rules with each new election can undermine consistency and lead to claims of invalid elections.

 

2. Announce the Election and Open Nominations

After confirming the rules, the HOA must then officially announce the election and open nominations by sending written notice to homeowners. This notice must also identify the open seats, explain how owners can become candidates, and outline the eligibility requirements. Other than that, the notice must clearly state the nomination deadline and the election date.

 

3. Collect Candidate Nominations

The next step is to collect candidate nominations. Candidates must submit the required materials before the deadline. Depending on the association, these materials can include a nomination form, a candidate statement, and a completed questionnaire.

If the association has a nominating committee, it may interview candidates or review submitted documents. From there, the committee can finalize the slate of candidates for election. Keep in mind that the exact process can vary depending on the governing documents.

 

4. Verify Candidate Eligibility

Not all nominees may move on. Associations generally have qualifications that candidates must meet. Before publishing the official candidate list, the HOA must confirm that each nominee is eligible to serve on the board.

Requirements can vary, but they typically include membership status, good standing, minimum residencies, term limits, and other qualifications. After verifying the nominees, the association can prepare the ballots.

 

5. Publish the Final Candidate Listwho can be on hoa board

Associations must make sure that voters are properly informed. Homeowners must get to know the candidates so they can decide whom to support. The final candidate list should include the candidates’ names, biographical information, and candidate statements.

The HOA must publish this list according to its bylaws. Some post it on the community website or distribute it via written notice. Others include it in their newsletters or hold separate campaign meetings for a more personal experience.

Of course, if an association allows floor nominations (during the election meeting) or write-in candidates, owners may vote for someone not in the final candidate list. That said, even floor and write-in candidates must undergo the same verification process when votes are counted.

While self-managed communities can certainly facilitate the nomination process, hiring an HOA management company can ensure fairness and ease.

 

Sample HOA Candidate Nomination Form

Download Your HOA Candidate Nomination Form Here

sample hoa candidate nomination form

 

For Smooth Nominations

The HOA board nomination process helps associations identify eligible candidates before an election. Board members and nominating committees must follow their governing documents and nomination procedures to avoid problems. Each nominee must be carefully verified so that their qualifications aren’t called into question should they win.

Westward360 is a trusted partner for HOAs and condo associations across the United States. For expert association management, contact us today or request a proposal online!


How Do HOA Elections Work? A Guide For Association Boards

In any planned community, HOA elections play a central role in ensuring continuity of leadership. Board members must understand how the election process works and what requirements must be met. Otherwise, owners can challenge the results, rendering the entire election invalid.

 

What are HOA Elections?

Homeowners association elections are a democratic process in which members vote for candidates to serve on the HOA board.

Every association is governed by a group of leaders known as the HOA board of directors. Board members are responsible for managing the community, including dues collection, rule enforcement, and common-area maintenance. That said, these board members don’t stay in power indefinitely.

After a board member serves out their term, the seat is up for election. Candidates are nominated either by themselves or by their fellow owners. If a candidate secures enough votes, they replace the outgoing director.

 

What are the Steps in an HOA Election Process?

The election process involves identifying open positions, finalizing the electoral roll, opening nominations and notifying owners, sending a pre-ballot notice, voting, counting the votes, announcing and recording the outcome, and electing officers. Let’s discuss each step below.

 

1. Identify Open Positions

First, the board or election committee must determine which seats are up for election in the new year. Most associations stagger term lengths so that not all board seats become vacant at the same time. This ensures that there’s a combination of new and veteran board members.

 

2. Finalize Electoral Roll

The electoral roll is essentially a list of all eligible voters’ names, voter numbers, property or unit numbers, and contact information. It is important to update this list so that the HOA may account for all eligible voters. Associations must add new homeowners to the list and remove any owners who have sold their homes.

Eligibility may not rely solely on ownership, too. Some associations revoke voting rights from delinquent members or those with pending violations. Eligibility requirements ultimately depend on the association’s governing documents.

 

3. Open Nominations and Notify Ownershoa election process

Next, the HOA board or election committee must officially open nominations. Nomination methods and requirements are typically defined in the association’s governing documents.

That said, state laws can also pose certain limitations. For instance, in Florida, floor nominations during the election meeting may be prohibited if the HOA has an established process requiring nominations to occur before the meeting (Section 720.306).

Additionally, owners must be notified of the open positions, the nomination deadline, and the procedures for nominating candidates. Notification periods can vary, but it’s usually 30 days before the nomination deadline.

 

4. Send a Pre-Ballot Notice

After receiving the candidate nominations, the HOA must send a pre-ballot notice to all homeowners. This notice should include the list of candidates officially in the running, how owners can cast their votes, and the meeting details for counting the ballots. Again, notice periods differ by association, but it’s normally 30 days before the distribution of ballots.

 

5. Vote

During the election period, members can either send their ballots or attend the election meeting in person to cast their votes. The appropriate voting method will depend on the association’s governing documents and election rules, but options typically include:

  • Written ballots
  • Electronic ballots
  • Secret ballots
  • Proxy votes

Some associations use a combination of these methods.

 

6. Count the Votes

An HOA must clearly establish a voting deadline. The association will no longer count any ballots submitted by owners after this date.

When counting the votes, it is important to examine each ballot to verify voter eligibility and ballot validity. Some ballots may be invalid if they’ve been faked or there’s a duplicate. Ballot counting typically takes place at the election meeting itself, with candidates and homeowners acting as witnesses. It ultimately depends on the association’s election rules.

 

7. Announce and Record the Outcome

After confirming the count, the HOA board or election committee must announce the results. This usually takes place at the election meeting. Most associations also post the results on the community website or send an official notice to all homeowners.

 

8. Elect Officershoa election of officers

The HOA election of officers is not the same as simply electing board members. While homeowners elect the latter, officer roles are generally determined by the board. For example, if the roles of secretary and treasurer are open, the board votes on who among the two winners will take each seat.

 

What Should HOA Election Rules Include?

Generally, an association’s election rules should address candidate qualifications, nomination procedures, voter eligibility, permitted voting methods, campaign procedures, voting deadlines, and ballot counting procedures.

  • Candidate Qualifications. These determine who may run for open board positions.
  • Nomination Procedures. These explain how owners may nominate candidates for election.
  • Voter Eligibility. This establishes who has a right to vote.
  • Permitted Voting Methods. These identify the voting method/s the association may use, such as written ballots, secret ballots, online voting, and proxy votes.
  • Campaign Procedures. These outline how candidates may run their campaigns, whether they can use common areas, and whether they can utilize HOA resources to spread information.
  • Voting Deadlines. This simply establishes the voting period and the deadline for owners to submit their ballots.
  • Ballot Counting Procedures. These determine how the association must count the votes, where the tabulation should take place, and who may observe the process.

Every community is different, so the specifics of these rules can vary. For instance, one HOA may allow delinquent owners to vote in the elections, while another may revoke their voting rights. The governing documents typically establish the voting rules that an association must follow.

 

How Often are HOA Elections Held?

In general, HOA elections occur at the annual meeting, but associations may skip an election if there are no open seats.

Term lengths are a determining factor. Some associations stagger term lengths into 1-, 2-, or 3-year terms so that seats open every year. Meanwhile, others allow board members to serve concurrent 2- or 3-year terms, meaning elections occur only every 2 or 3 years.

Associations must check their bylaws for term lengths and election requirements.

 

Who Organizes HOA Elections?

It depends on state laws and the governing documents, but most are organized by a separate HOA election committee.

This committee is responsible for overseeing and facilitating a fair and smooth election. Depending on the governing documents, any HOA member may join the election committee. That said, some associations prohibit incumbent directors or candidates from joining to avoid conflicts of interest.

Moreover, some associations hire a third-party inspector to supervise the process and count the ballots. California even requires it (Civil Code Section 5110).

An HOA management company can also help by scheduling elections, sending the required notices, preparing ballots, and ensuring compliance with election rules.

 

A Successful Process

Preparing and holding HOA elections isn’t always smooth sailing, especially when election rules are unclear. Board members can improve the process through careful planning and coordination, all while ensuring compliance with state laws and the governing documents.

Westward360 is a trusted partner for HOAs and condo associations across the United States. For expert association management, contact us today or request a proposal online!


HOA Voting Rules: Who Can Vote And How To Vote?

Every association election relies on a set of HOA voting rules. These rules determine voter eligibility, voting methods, and ballot counting procedures. Board members must understand these rules to facilitate fair elections, minimize challenges, and ensure the validity of the results.

 

What are HOA Voting Rules?

Voting rules are the guiding principles that determine who can vote, how votes are cast, and how the association counts them. These rules can vary depending on state laws and the association’s governing documents.

That said, HOA voting rules commonly address or govern the following:

  • The notice period that the HOA must give before the elections (typically 30 days),
  • How voters can receive and submit their ballots,
  • The minimum number of voters that must be present for elections to proceed (quorum),
  • Who can vote (eligibility requirements),
  • Whether proxy voting or online voting is permitted and how they work,
  • How members can challenge the HOA elections,
  • The deadline for voting,
  • How to count the votes and announce the results, and
  • Other HOA voting process practices as defined by the governing documents.

 

Who Can Vote in an HOA?

In general, HOA members have the right to vote, but there may be disqualifying factors depending on state law and the governing documents. Let’s take a closer look at those who may be involved in voting.

 

Members of the HOA (Homeowners)

Voting rights typically belong to the association’s members. Members are often defined as anyone who owns a unit or property in the community.

Generally, each unit or home gets one vote, but this may vary by association. Some communities assign voting power based on ownership percentages, with larger units holding more voting power.

 

Co-Owners of a Property

A unit or home may have more than one owner and, therefore, more than one vote. That said, it depends on how voting interests are allocated. For example, an HOA may give one vote per lot or unit regardless of how many people own the property.

 

Tenants and Renters

Can renters vote in an HOA election? In general, renters don’t receive the right to vote simply because they live in the community. Voting rights are reserved for the homeowner, who is the renter’s landlord. That said, some owners/landlords designate their tenant as their proxy.

 

Delinquent Homeowners

Can a homeowner vote if they owe HOA dues? Many associations revoke a member’s right to vote if they are behind on their dues for a certain period. That said, this is not always the case, so board members must check state laws and their governing documents for confirmation.

 

What are the Different HOA Voting Methods?

Voting methods depend on state laws and the governing documents, but they typically include in-person voting, absentee ballots, HOX proxy voting, HOOA electronic voting, and mail-in ballots. Let’s discuss each one below.

 

1. In-Person Voting

With in-person voting, owners may cast their votes at the meeting itself. The association can distribute the ballots either at the meeting or prior to it, but the final submission is made during the meeting proper. Of course, boards must verify voter eligibility when counting votes.

 

2. Absentee Ballots

If an owner can’t attend the meeting, the HOA may allow absentee ballots. This gives the owner a chance to cast their vote in advance. When using absentee ballots, it is important to clearly establish the submission deadline, where ballots must be sent, and how to verify voter eligibility.

 

3. HOA Proxy Voting

Can someone else vote for me in an HOA election? If state laws and the governing documents permit, an owner may authorize someone else to vote on their behalf. This is known as proxy voting. That said, associations must enforce clear HOA proxy voting rules, including how to complete proxy forms, when they expire, and how owners may revoke their proxies.

In Florida, Section 720.306 imposes the following requirements:

  • The proxy must be dated and signed.
  • It must clearly identify the meeting date, time, and location.
  • The proxy generally applies only to that specific meeting, even if the meeting is postponed or reconvened.
  • The proxy automatically expires 90 days after the meeting date.
  • If the proxy form allows it, the person holding the proxy can appoint someone else to vote in their place.
  • The homeowner who gave the proxy can cancel it at any time.

 

4. HOA Electronic Voting

Some states and governing documents allow associations to use HOA online voting under certain conditions. Board members can use an online platform or electronic ballot. That said, this system must be secure and enable the HOA to verify voter eligibility.

 

5. Mail-In Ballots

Depending on state laws and the governing documents, owners may use mail-in ballots. This allows them to cast their votes even without attending the election meeting. Of course, they must complete and submit the ballots by the deadline.

 

What Can HOOA Members Vote On?

In general, members can vote on board elections, amendments to the governing documents, special assessments (if applicable), and other major decisions (if applicable).

Not every decision requires a membership vote. More often than not, routine association business continues even with just a board vote. Seeking homeowner approval for every move only slows things down. That said, member votes may be necessary for:

  • Board Elections. Electing new directors does require member votes. This is the most common use of voting in an HOA.
  • Amendments to the Governing Documents. For changes to the CC&Rs (and even the bylaws), most associations require membership approval.
  • Special Assessments. Depending on the governing documents, special assessments above a certain threshold may need approval from homeowners.
  • Other Major Decisions. Some decisions require a membership vote as stipulated by the CC&Rs and bylaws. Common examples include building a new amenity, selling HOA-owned property, or dissolving the association.

 

HOA Voting Rules FAQs

How many votes does each homeowner get?

It depends on the HOA voting rules, as there is no universal formula that applies to every association. Some communities assign one vote per lot or unit, while others allocate voting percentages based on ownership interests. Board members must check their governing documents for confirmation.

 

What happens if an HOA election does not reach quorum?

If a meeting doesn’t meet quorum requirements, the HOA can’t conduct business or complete the election. Typically, the next step would be to adjourn and postpone the meeting, but the governing documents may give varying instructions.

 

Can an HOA deny a homeowner the right to vote?

Depending on state laws and the governing documents, an HOA may have grounds to determine that an owner is ineligible to vote. For example, the person may not be an HOA member or may have had their voting rights temporarily suspended due to delinquent dues. That said, the board can’t simply revoke voting rights based on arbitrary rules or personal judgment.

 

Can an HOA board change the voting rules?

No, board members generally can’t change the HOA voting rules without an amendment. To amend the CC&Rs and bylaws, homeowner approval is typically required.

 

Can an HOA reject a ballot?

An HOA may reject a ballot if it fails to meet voting requirements. Common examples include late ballot submissions or votes by an ineligible voter. It is essential to adhere to state laws and the governing documents when determining the validity of a ballot.

 

Can homeowners challenge an HOA election?

If state laws and the governing documents permit, owners may challenge an HOA election. For instance, in Florida, Section 720.306 states that owners have 60 days after the election results are announced to challenge the election process. The governing documents typically outline other requirements and procedures for challenging an election.

 

Free HOA Voting Ballot Template

Download Your HOA Election Ballot Template Here

free hoa voting ballot template

 

Professional Assistance

Navigating HOA voting rules isn’t always easy, especially for self-managed boards. There are several factors to consider, and enforcement requires careful planning and organization. When in doubt, hiring an HOA management company is the best way forward.

Westward360 is a trusted partner for HOAs and condo associations across the United States. For expert association management, contact us today or request a proposal online!


HOA Ballot Counting Procedure: From Ballot Collection To Final Results

Associations must follow the proper HOA ballot counting procedure that state laws and their governing documents set forth. Skipping a step or disregarding the requirements altogether can render the entire process null and void. That said, exact steps can vary depending on the association and the voting method.

 

What is an HOA Ballot Counting Procedure?

Simply put, the ballot counting procedure is the process that an HOA follows to collect, verify, count, and record votes during an election or membership vote.

This procedure helps ensure that the association only counts valid votes and that the final results are accurate. Typically, the board members are responsible for facilitating this process, but responsibility may also fall on the election committee, an HOA management company, or a third-party inspector.

The steps involved in an HOA ballot counting procedure can vary from one association to another. It ultimately depends on the community’s governing documents, specifically the CC&Rs and bylaws.

 

Who Should Count HOA Ballots?

In general, ballots are counted by the HOA board, the election committee, an independent inspector, or an HOA management company. Associations must check their governing documents to determine who the responsible party is. Let’s discuss each one below.

 

HOA Board Members

If state laws and the governing documents permit, board members may count the ballots. This is typically popular among smaller associations that don’t have the manpower or resources to form a separate election committee or hire an independent inspector.

That said, the main concern with this setup is a potential conflict of interest. If incumbent board members are candidates in the election, some may perceive the count as impartial. To avoid this, it is best for board members who are also running for re-election to recuse themselves from the count.

 

Election Committeehoa ballot tabulation

An election committee is a separate group of people working independently of the board. This committee oversees the election. Tasks often include receiving ballots, verifying voter eligibility, counting the votes, and documenting the results.

Establishing a separate election committee can help ensure the HOA ballot-counting process is fair and transparent. It prevents claims of ballot tampering or manipulation. That said, candidates running in the election must not be allowed to join the committee.

 

Independent Election Inspectors

In some associations, hiring a third-party election inspector is necessary. California, for instance, requires associations to select an independent third party to act as the inspector of elections (Civil Code Section 5110).

This inspector is completely neutral and independent of the association. They must have no affiliation with the board or any of the candidates.

An independent inspector is more common among larger communities or contested elections. This person or people can receive the ballots, keep them secure, verify voter eligibility, oversee the count, and certify the results. They can also answer any questions regarding the HOA ballot counting procedure.

 

HOA Management Company

An HOA management company can help facilitate the election on the association’s behalf. Depending on the service agreement, this company may distribute ballots, collect votes, verify voter eligibility, assist with the count, and record the results. It can also prepare any necessary election materials and maintain accurate recordkeeping.

That said, the HOA management company must still follow the association’s governing documents. It can’t make and enforce its own voting procedures. Moreover, the company must never act with bias, favoritism, or personal judgment. Neutrality is key.

 

Who Can Be HOA Ballot Counting Witnesses?

Generally, all members of the association may observe the HOA ballot counting procedure. This includes board members, candidates, and the voters themselves. As for lawyers or legal representatives, state laws and the association’s governing documents determine if they may witness the count.

Of course, witnesses are not participants. They must not interfere with or disrupt the ballot counting process. Anyone who does may be removed from the area by the association. Depending on the rules, the HOA may also levy a fine against that person.

 

How Does HOA Count Votes?

In general, the HOA ballot counting procedure involves 10 steps: collecting the ballots, securing the ballots, verifying voter eligibility, checking ballot validity, separating and recording invalid ballots, counting the valid ballots, reconciling the vote, handling ties or disputed results, certifying the election results, and announcing the final results.

 

1.  Collect the Ballots

First, the association collects the ballots on or before the submission deadline. Depending on the voting method, this may take the form of in-person ballots, mail-in ballots, proxy forms (if applicable), or electronic ballots.

 

2. Secure the Ballotshoa ballot counting witnesses

Once collected, the ballots must be properly secured until it’s time to count them. The association must store them in a secure place where only authorized individuals can access them. It is also important to document who received and stored these ballots.

 

3. Verify Voter Eligibility

Next, the election officials must confirm that each ballot was cast by an eligible voter. This includes cross-referencing membership status, ownership records, and voting rights or interests. Proxies must also be evaluated and documented. This step helps minimize duplicate or invalid ballots.

 

4. Check Ballot Validity

To meet HOA balloting requirements, the association must confirm the validity of each vote. Ballots must come from an eligible voter. Potential issues that may invalidate a ballot include missing information, selecting too many candidates, voting for an ineligible candidate, altered or duplicate ballots, and late submissions.

 

5. Separate and Record Invalid Ballots

If the association identifies any questionable ballots, it is important to keep them separate from the rest. An election official can review these ballots to confirm that they are invalid. Make sure not to discard them, as these invalid ballots must be stored and documented as well. Furthermore, the association must record the reasons for rejecting each ballot.

 

6. Count the Valid Ballots

Next comes the HOA vote counting step. This is fairly straightforward, as votes are tallied for each candidate. If the association allows write-in candidates, the election committee must verify candidates’ qualifications and then count the votes. After the first count, it is best to conduct a second count for accuracy.

 

7. Reconcile the Vote

The HOA ballot counting procedure doesn’t stop after tallying the votes. It is important to ensure that the number of ballots received matches the number of ballots counted plus any invalid ballots set aside. If there are any discrepancies, the election officials must investigate further. It could be due to missing or duplicate ballots.

 

8. Handle Ties and Disputed Results

Tie votes or challenged elections can happen. When they do, board members must review state laws and the governing documents for the next steps. Most CC&Rs and bylaws address how to break ties, document challenges and decisions, and consider recount procedures to resolve disputes.

 

9. Certify the Election Results

From there, the election officials must formally confirm the results. This includes the final vote totals, number of valid ballots, number of rejected ballots, and the candidates elected. Certification typically requires the authorized officials to sign a document or report.

 

10. Announce the Final Resultshoa vote counting

Following the HOA ballot tabulation, the association must then communicate the results to all homeowners. This usually takes place at the election meeting. Many associations also announce the results via the community website, newsletter, member portal, or written notice. This way, even those who failed to attend the meeting are informed.

 

HOA Ballot Counting Procedure Based on Voting Method

Ballot counting may differ depending on the voting method.

  • In-Person Paper Ballots. These are easy to count, as each ballot is physically reviewed and manually tallied.
  • Mailed Ballots. After receiving a mail-in ballot, the HOA must secure the ballot until the election meeting, where it is counted and tallied manually. Do not open the ballot before the election meeting.
  • Electronic Ballots. Most online voting platforms tabulate the votes electronically. Still, the HOA must use a platform that allows for the verification of voter eligibility and prevents duplicate ballots.
  • Proxy Votes. This is trickier because it requires confirming that the proxy has been properly completed and remains valid before tallying the vote. Additionally, if the person who gave the proxy decides to vote in person, that vote overrides the proxy.

Of course, regardless of the method, associations must still secure every ballot, verify voter eligibility, review ballots for validity, recount the votes for accuracy, and certify the results.

 

Doing Things Right

Board members must understand and enforce the HOA’s ballot-counting procedure. Failure to do so can invalidate the whole election, costing the association both time and resources. When in doubt, hiring an HOA management company can prove useful.

Westward360 is a trusted partner for HOAs and condo associations across the United States. For expert association management, contact us today or request a proposal online!


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