Governing Docs/Rules & Regs

Here’s a simple explanation for the three main governing documents for a condo association:

1. Articles of Incorporation – “The Birth Certificate”
This document officially creates the condo association as a legal entity (usually a nonprofit corporation). It’s filed with the state and says basic things like the association’s name, address, and purpose.
➡️ Think of it as the association’s birth certificate — it brings the condo association into existence.

2. Declaration (or Declaration of Condominium) – “The Rulebook for the Property”
This is the core legal document that describes the property itself and the rights and responsibilities of all unit owners. It explains:

What parts are individually owned vs. shared (common areas).

What owners can and cannot do with their units.

How maintenance, assessments, and insurance are handled.
➡️ Think of it as the constitution or master rulebook for how the property is set up and used.

3. Bylaws – “The Operating Manual”
The bylaws explain how the association is run day-to-day. They cover things like:

How the board of directors is elected.

How meetings are held and votes are taken.

The powers and duties of the board and officers.
➡️ Think of it as the owner’s manual for running the association.

In short:

Articles = Create the association.

Declaration = Define the property and owners’ rights.

Bylaws = Explain how the association operates.