Most HOAs use standing committees to distribute governance work beyond the board. Committees are advisory bodies — they make recommendations to the board, which retains final decision-making authority. Common HOA committees include:
• Architectural Review Committee (ARC): Reviews and approves homeowner applications for exterior modifications, additions, and improvements to ensure compliance with the community’s architectural standards. The ARC is one of the most active committees in most HOAs.
• Finance Committee: Works with the treasurer to review the annual budget, monitor financial performance, and make recommendations on reserve funding and special assessments. Common in larger associations.
• Social Committee: Organizes community events, welcome programs for new residents, and activities designed to build community engagement.
• Maintenance and Grounds Committee: Conducts community inspections, identifies common area maintenance needs, and makes recommendations to the board on vendor performance and capital improvements.
• Elections Committee: Administers board elections in accordance with the governing documents and applicable state law, often serving the role of inspector of elections.
Committee members are typically appointed by the board. Board members may serve on committees but serving as committee chair while also serving as a board officer can create governance conflicts — check the governing documents for specific rules on committee composition.
Traditions 