The Importance of Animal Guidelines and Policies in HOAs and COAs

Pets are a beloved part of many households, but in shared communities like those governed by Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and Condominium Owners Associations (COAs), unmanaged pet behavior can quickly lead to safety risks, liability claims, and tension among residents. For these reasons, it’s crucial that associations establish clear and enforceable animal guidelines and policies to protect residents, pets, and property alike.

1. Promoting Safety for Residents and Pets

Without proper rules in place, even well-intentioned pet owners may unintentionally create unsafe conditions. Incidents such as dog bites, leash trips, or pets attacking other animals are unfortunately common sources of injury and insurance claims.

Establishing clear policies—such as leash requirements, pet registration, designated pet areas, and restrictions on aggressive behavior/breeds—helps prevent accidents before they happen. When everyone understands and follows the same rules, residents can feel safe walking their property or enjoying shared amenities without fear of encountering uncontrolled animals.

2. Reducing Liability and Insurance Claims

Every incident involving a pet, especially a dog bite or injury, exposes the association and its members to potential liability. Even if the incident occurs between residents, the association can still be named in claims due to its role in maintaining the common areas where the event took place.

By implementing and consistently enforcing animal guidelines, HOAs and COAs demonstrate due diligence in protecting residents—something that can be critical in mitigating liability exposure and keeping insurance premiums stable. Clear documentation of pet policies, along with records of enforcement, shows insurers and courts that the association actively works to prevent foreseeable risks. This proactive approach can also help the association qualify for more favorable insurance terms and, in some cases, remove animal-related exclusions with certain carriers.

3. Maintaining Cleanliness and Property Standards

Another key reason to adopt strong animal policies is to preserve the appearance and condition of shared spaces. Uncontrolled pet waste, noise disturbances, and property damage from animals can quickly degrade the community’s appeal and negatively affect property values.

Rules that require owners to pick up after their pets, limit the number or size of animals, and prohibit nuisance behavior help maintain a pleasant environment for all residents—pet owners and non–pet owners alike.

4. Encouraging Responsible Pet Ownership

Animal policies aren’t just about restriction—they also promote education and responsibility. By setting expectations around licensing, vaccinations, and leash control, associations help ensure that all pets in the community are healthy, socialized, and under proper supervision.

These guidelines can also include resources or partnerships with local animal services, making it easier for residents to comply and fostering a culture of responsible pet care.

5. Strengthening Community Harmony

Disputes involving pets can escalate quickly and damage neighbor relationships. Noise complaints, off-leash dogs, and aggression toward other pets are some of the most common sources of conflict in shared communities.

A well-written and consistently enforced pet policy provides a neutral framework for resolving disputes fairly. It also removes subjectivity from enforcement—protecting the association from accusations of favoritism or inconsistency.

In Summary

Pets bring companionship and joy, but in multifamily and shared-living environments, they also introduce unique challenges. HOAs and COAs have a duty to create and uphold animal policies that balance the rights of pet owners with the safety and comfort of all residents.

By setting clear expectations and taking a proactive approach, associations can reduce claims, protect property values, and foster a safer, more harmonious community where both people and pets can thrive.

Meet the Author

Olivia Rowe

Olivia Rowe is a graduate of Baylor University. She is a licensed 2-20 Agent with 2 years of insurance experience. Her role at Travers Hartnett is Account Manager & Account Executive Support. Olivia upholds the Agency’s high standard in customer service & maintaining relationships with our clients.