What documents cover a community association?
Answer:
A community’s governing framework may include a condominium master deed or recorded declaration of covenants, association bylaws, and applicable rules. Those documents work with state law to define owners’ obligations and the board’s authority, while a property manager may handle daily operations.
The documents governing a community depend in part on the type of property involved. A condominium typically has a recorded master deed establishing the regime under South Carolina law. A subdivision of single-family homes commonly has recorded covenants and restrictions.
These documents establish the community’s legal framework and may address permitted uses and restrictions affecting individual properties. They should be read with the association’s bylaws, applicable rules, and state law.
Owners may become members of the association by owning property subject to the declaration. Where the association is incorporated as a nonprofit, the South Carolina Nonprofit Corporation Act also forms part of the legal framework.
The board governs the association within its lawful authority. A property manager may carry out day-to-day work under a management contract, while the board retains its governance responsibilities.
A community association attorney can help interpret the recorded documents, distinguish board and management roles, and assess what enforcement procedures are available.