Transitioning Off of the HOA Board

Serving on the HOA board can be a very rewarding experience. You’re part of the decision-making process and the creation of a community that is more enjoyable for all. But sometimes life, work, family obligations, or personal reasons can interfere with your ability to truly dedicate yourself to your service.

Remember, HOA board membership is voluntary; don’t feel as though you’re obligated to stay or leave. Focus on the best interests of everyone involved. If you feel as though you’re no longer able to dedicate the time and effort required to be an effective member of the board, you’re moving, or you simply feel as though you’ve put in your time and are ready to let someone else step up, it’s your decision. But rather than just up and leaving, follow proper protocol and remain professional in resigning.

  • Craft a formal written notice of your resignation. You may want to include your reason for stepping down, or you may choose to keep it to yourself. In either case, maintain a professional tone, keep it short, and state that you will be resigning and the date that it goes into effect. It is common courtesy to give advance notice so that the board can seek a replacement and you have the opportunity to tie up loose ends.
  • Notify the community members. HOA members have a right to know that you are resigning. Your notice may be distributed via email, newsletter, or posted on the community website. You may also choose to announce it during an upcoming meeting. This gives others a chance to process the information and decide if they would like to seek a spot on the board.
  • Ease the transition by supporting whomever will be taking your place or filling in during the interim. You may want to update them on projects you were working on, tips for being more successful, or other tidbits you want to impart.

Your resignation doesn’t have to be a big issue, especially if you take the time to help things run more smoothly. Be respectful of those still on the board just as you want them to be respectful of your decision. Before stepping down, make sure you are doing so for the right reasons, and not out of haste or a snap decision. As a board member you are an integral part of the community and its wellbeing. But if it’s in everyone’s best interest that you step down, following the right procedures and can minimize disruptions.

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Bryan Kuester

Bryan Kuester

Bryan is the CEO of Kuester Management Group. He has over 15 years of managing community associations throughout North and South Carolina.

His specialties include Community Association Management - maintenance, budgeting for operational and reserve funding, long-range planning, covenant enforcement, amenity management, onsite management, large scale management.