THE VILLAS OF
SUNSET GROVE
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of a community association?
For the benefit of its members (owners) an association helps to protect home values in the community, offers amenities for the enjoyment of owners and helps to build a sense of community. Community associations are commonly established as a non-profit corporation that is governed by a set of documents including the Articles of Incorporation, the Bylaws, and the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CCRs). Home values are maintained through the enforcement of community standards spelled out in these governing documents. Generally most standards focus on property maintenance and architectural design of the community.
What is the purpose of the board of directors, and what is their role?
The board of directors is voted on by the membership comprised of homeowners to make decisions for the Association. They are ultimately responsible for the funds and operations of the community. They approve contracts, set the budget, enforce the documents, oversee committees, etc.
Who are members of the Association?
Most community associations require mandatory membership in the association for every owner of a lot within the boundaries of a specific community.
Do the board members get paid?
No. The Villas of Sunset Grove board members offer their time, expertise, and services on a volunteer basis.
Who is entitled to vote?
The property owner with legal title to a parcel of property (lot) and verified as an association member in good standing is entitled to vote.
Do I have to be a member of the Association?
Yes, when your community was built, the association was established with legal governing documents that made your community a deed restricted community; meaning, whoever holds a deed to land in the community must comply with the governing documents. When you purchased your home, your deed to your property obligates you to the association as a member. These governing documents also apply to renters, and it is the homeowner's responsibility to inform their tenants and seasonal renters of these rules. A copy of these rules and regulations must be displayed in all rental units.
What are Deed Restrictions?
Upon acceptance of a deed to property which is subject to conditions, covenants, and restrictions that "run with the land", the owner is responsible for adherence to the provisions set forth in governing documents, which ensure rights of enjoyment and require compliance with specific restrictions.
Is the Association responsible for Member compliance with restrictions?
If an association member fails to comply with any condition, covenant, restriction or rules and regulations, the association board of directors is authorized to require remedy or removal. Specific policies and procedures are established to accomplish violation notification, penalties and legal enforcement.
What are governing documents?
Governing documents are recorded legal documents which may include Articles of Incorporation, Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions, Bylaws, among others which determine structure of an association and establish obligations and responsibilities of its members and elected officers and directors.
Are governing documents received by each Association member?
Copies of governing documents are provided by the title company along with closing documents when a purchase transaction is completed. Additional or replacement copies may be obtained from the association upon request.
What records of the Association are open to members?
Usually, records, contracts, financials, etc., are open to the members for inspection. You would need to provide a written request to the board to inspect the records. You can either send your written request to the P.O. address listed at the bottom of this page or email it to villasofsunsetgrove@gmail.com.
Is the Association annual budget published? How can I get a copy of it?
Each year, a copy of the budget summary is mailed to you for review. Contact the board to get a copy if you did not receive it. You can email us at villasofsunsetgrove@gmail.com to request a copy.
What is a common area?
The term common area is generally used to describe all elements within the community that are owned and maintained by the association, and dedicated to shared use and enjoyment of all owners.
Are architectural modifications or property improvements allowed?
In order to preserve the aesthetic quality of a community, prior approval of any exterior alteration, modification, or addition to individual property is required. Forms and applications for submission of detailed plans and specifications are available on this website or upon phone or email request to the board.
Who should be contacted for association inquiry or service?
The board is responsible for receipt and response of association inquiries and service requests Monday-Friday 8am-5pm via phone or email.
Who has authority to approve exterior modifications?
The authority to review and approve modifications is generally delegated to the HOA board of directors in accordance with the governing documents.
What are assessment fees?
Assessment fees (dues) are fees that are imposed upon individual lots by the association in accordance with the governing documents.
Who determines amount due for assessment fees?
The amount of individual assessment fees is based on income required to cover the expenditures and contingencies required to maintain a sound and prudent financial condition for the association. After comprehensive review and approval of an association annual budget, the board of directors will determine if an increase in individual assessment fees will be necessary to accommodate a balanced budget.
Can assessment fees be increased?
Yes, requirements for approval of an increase in fees are set forth in the Declaration.
How do I pay fees due to the association?
Association assessment fees (dues) are billed by statement and are due no later than April 1st of each year. Any dues that are still owed after 90 days (from January 1st) will be subject to interest and/or late fees. You may pay by check or credit card payable to The Villas of Sunset Grove.
What is my association/bill remittance address?
The Villas of Sunset Grove
P.O. Box 4462
Clearwater, FL 33758
How do I report a violation?
You may either email or call us during normal business hours (M-F 8am-5pm). We will take the address and the concern and make sure it's investigated. For privacy, we cannot divulge the specific steps in the enforcement of that Lot; such as how many times the owner has been fined.
Who do I contact if I want to set up a payment plan to pay my past due assessments?
Please call us at (727) 433-0681 M-F 8am-5pm to discuss the option of a payment plan.