Home Builder vs. HOA: Who's Responsible for What?
October 11, 2024
When building or buying a home in a community with a Homeowners' Association (HOA), it’s easy to get confused about who handles what. While it might seem straightforward at first glance, there are some gray areas where responsibilities overlap, and that’s where most homeowners get stuck.
Here are some key questions you might have when navigating the responsibilities of a builder versus an HOA:
1. Who handles landscaping and outdoor features during construction?
When your home is being built, a builder like Trinity Homes will typically handle things like grading, installing your driveway, and even initial landscaping around the home. However, many HOAs have strict rules about what types of plants or landscaping features you can have—so while the builder installs the basics, you might need to get HOA approval before making changes like adding a fence, deck, or patio.
Tip: Before making any big outdoor decisions, check with the HOA’s design guidelines to avoid costly rework.
2. What about maintaining common areas or roads during construction?
If you’re moving into a new development, you may wonder who’s responsible for maintaining roads, sidewalks, and common areas before the neighborhood is fully built out. In most cases, this is your builder’s responsibility until the HOA officially takes over once a certain number of homes are completed. The transition can be tricky though, so be sure to ask when the HOA will step in.
3. Who enforces neighborhood rules during construction?
Your builder is responsible for following local building codes and adhering to any rules set by the HOA during construction. But once you’ve moved in, the HOA becomes the key enforcer of rules like where to park, what colors you can paint your house, and any changes you want to make to your property. If your builder didn’t follow a certain guideline, the HOA may ask you to correct it—potentially leading to delays.
Example: If your builder installs a mailbox that doesn’t meet HOA standards, you could be on the hook for replacing it.
4. Who deals with drainage and flood concerns?
One of the biggest headaches for homeowners is drainage and water management. At Trinity, we make sure your lot is properly graded, and that water flows away from your home. However, HOAs may have broader responsibilities for your neighborhood’s overall drainage system, especially if there are shared detention ponds or common drainage areas.
If you notice water pooling in your yard or in common areas, you might wonder who to call—builder or HOA? A good rule of thumb: If the issue is on your lot and construction is recent, call your builder. If it’s in a common area or affects multiple homes, the HOA might be your best bet.
5. What if something goes wrong after I move in?
At Trinity, we provide a warranty on the home’s structure and major systems (like plumbing and electrical) for a set period after construction. If you have issues like a roof leak or a faulty water heater, that’s on us—at least until the warranty expires. On the flip side, the HOA manages ongoing maintenance for common areas like pools, sidewalks, and community centers.
Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on your warranty deadlines. Know what’s covered and for how long, so you’re not stuck footing the bill for builder-related repairs after coverage ends.
Bottom Line: While your builder and HOA should certainly work together to create a livable community, their roles diverge once the home is finished. If you're ever unsure about who handles a particular issue, start by reviewing your HOA’s rules and your builder’s contract—and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Getting clarity upfront will save you time, money, and frustration later.
At Trinity Homes , we’re committed to combining your vision with our expertise and dedication to quality in every new home we build. We’re here to provide you with the information and resources you need every step of the way—from choosing the perfect community to designing a semi-custom home that suits your style and your life, beautifully. Here are a few of our most popular articles from this year!
Looking for the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience? Trinity Homes is excited to announce an exclusive Holiday Sale at Woodside at Holton Run ! This is your chance to secure one of our stunning condos in this highly sought-after community, but hurry—this offer ends December 31st. Available Condos: 15 Woodside at Holton Run | $355,000 16 Woodside at Holton Run | $389,000 42 Woodside at Holton Run | $359,000 43 Woodside at Holton Run | $392,775 Each condo features a 30-day close , so you could be moving into your new maintenance-free home just in time for the New Year! 
When you’re building a semi-custom home, possibilities abound. Beyond bedrooms and bathrooms, custom spaces allow you to introduce features to your home that reflect your lifestyle, hobbies, and needs. Whether it’s for entertaining, relaxing, or keeping life organized, these tailored spaces can truly elevate your home, enhancing both everyday living and special moments. Here are a few ideas to inspire your design:
Maximizing the value of your Trinity Home means planning for a space that grows with you. By incorporating aging-in-place features, you can ensure your home stays safe, comfortable, and accessible as your needs evolve. Here are some thoughtful customizations to consider: Accessible Entrances and Pathways Creating accessible entrances and pathways can make a big difference for aging in place. Zero-step entries at the front and back doors allow easy access without the need to navigate stairs, while wide doorways and hallways provide ample space for walkers or wheelchairs, making movement throughout the home easier. Adding slip-resistant surfaces to indoor and outdoor flooring can also help reduce the risk of slips—especially in wet conditions—boosting both safety and peace of mind. Smart Home Technology Smart home technology can make life at home so much easier and safer as we age. With voice-activated controls, turning lights on, adjusting the thermostat, or even locking up is just a quick command away. For those living independently, home monitoring systems also offer extra peace of mind, keeping everything secure and connected. And smart appliances—like voice-activated ovens, easy-access fridges, and hands-free faucets—take the hassle out of daily routines, making things simpler and more manageable. Enhanced Lighting Enhanced lighting should also be a top priority to make your home more functional for aging in place. Think motion-sensor lights in hallways, bathrooms, and entryways to automatically illuminate key areas, making it easier to navigate safely, especially at night. Task lighting can also provide bright, focused light in spaces where detailed work happens, like the kitchen, bathroom, and reading areas. And by placing larger windows strategically, you can bring in plenty of natural light, keeping the home bright and welcoming throughout the day. Bathroom Modifications Updating the bathroom with accessibility features can make it both safer and more comfortable, addressing the many hidden dangers common in this space. Curbless showers, for example, remove the need to step over a curb and pair well with seating, making bathing safer and more secure. Grab bars and rails near toilets, showers, and tubs provide extra support to help prevent falls, which are a common risk in the bathroom. Comfort-height toilets reduce strain when sitting and standing, while non-slip flooring lowers the risk of slips in this moisture-prone area. Together, these modifications transform the bathroom into a space that supports changing needs and minimizes hazards. Other Ideas for Aging in Place To make a home more accessible as you age, you may also want to consider adding... First-floor bedroom and bathroom : Having a primary suite on the first floor reduces the need to climb stairs, offering easier access to key areas. Adjustable closet rods and shelves : Makes clothing and accessories reachable without bending or stretching. Stair lifts and handrails : Lifts can provide accessibility to upper floors without needing to navigate stairs, while handrails on both sides can offer better support and balance while using the stairs. Outdoor Ramps: Outdoor ramps can make it easier to enter or exit the home safely, especially where there are stairs involved.  Ultimately, the right customizations can help ensure a home feels comfortable, secure, and accommodating as your physical needs change, all while maintaining style and functionality. At Trinity Homes , we can work with you to customize your home in a way that fits your unique needs, enhancing both comfort and convenience as you move through different stages of life.
When building a home, there’s a lot to consider – layout, square footage, and style – but one detail that often gets overlooked is the direction your home faces. Orientation might sound like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in comfort, efficiency, and your overall living experience. Natural Light and Warmth Natural light can make a home feel more welcoming and even boost your mood – especially in the colder months – but it’s hard to mimic. That’s why it’s worth considering home orientation when building or purchasing a home, as this can impact how much natural light your home gets. South-facing homes, for example, get more consistent light throughout the day than north-facing homes. This can also affect how much warmth your home gets from sunlight, which brings us to our next point... Energy Efficiency The orientation of your home can also have a noticeable impact on your energy bills. As mentioned, window placement affects how much natural light—and warmth—your home receives, which can mean big savings on heating and cooling. For example... South-facing windows get plenty of sunlight in the winter, reducing heating needs. However, this extra light can also make summers warmer, potentially increasing cooling costs. East-facing windows bring in morning light to gently warm your home at the start of the day. By afternoon, these rooms stay cooler, helping lower cooling costs in the summer. West-facing windows receive intense afternoon and evening sun, especially in warmer months, which can create extra heat in the afternoon and increase cooling needs. Outdoor Living If you’re planning for an outdoor space, like a patio or garden, the right home orientation can also ensure these areas get the sun or shade you want. A south or west-facing backyard might be perfect if you want sun in the afternoon, while a shaded north-facing outdoor space can be comfier in warmer months. Cultural Beliefs Cultural beliefs and traditions may also play a role in determining the desired orientation of your home, as many traditions associate certain directions with harmony, prosperity, and health. In Feng Shui , a Chinese tradition, a home’s orientation affects the flow of “chi” or life energy throughout the home. Room placements are carefully considered to foster balanced energy within the house. Generally speaking, south-facing homes are preferred for warmth and positive energy. In Vastu Shastra , an Indian tradition, each direction is associated with specific elements, influencing room placement. Some practitioners consider Northeast-facing homes to be the most favorable, associating this direction with wealth. Islamic architectural practices often consider orientation in relation to religious practices. Many Islamic homes are designed with consideration of the Qibla, the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca. This orientation ensures that there is a clear area for prayer facing the Qibla.  Whether it’s maximizing natural light, cutting down on energy costs, or embracing cultural traditions, a home’s orientation has the power to elevate your living experience in ways you may not have expected. At Trinity Homes , we build homes in many of the most sought-after neighborhoods in Central Ohio , providing you with the home orientation options you need. Contact a New Home Consultant today to learn more.
The perfect home for your family is waiting in Plain City...
Turning your outdoor space into a beautiful and functional area can take your custom home from Trinity Homes to the next level, boosting its charm and making outdoor living even more enjoyable. Whether you’re hosting friends, hanging out with family, or just relaxing in your own retreat, the right design can make a big difference. Here’s how to create an outdoor oasis that’s both stylish and practical, perfectly complementing your home.  1. Define Your Space: First things first, think about how you want to use your outdoor area. Are you picturing a comfy spot for reading, a lively space for entertaining, a fun zone for the whole family, or all the above? Knowing what you want will help shape your design and make sure it fits your needs perfectly. 2. Choose Durable Furniture: You definitely want your outdoor furniture to look great, but it’s just as important to pick pieces that can stand up to the elements. Go for materials like teak, cedar, or powder-coated metal for lasting durability. Look for weather-resistant cushions and fabrics that are easy to clean or can be removed and stored when you’re not using them. 3. Incorporate Functional Lighting : Just like inside your home, lighting plays a huge role in both function and style. Try mixing ambient lights, task lighting, and some stylish accents to really set the mood. String lights, lanterns, and solar path lights add a cozy, inviting feel. 4. Create Cozy Areas with Fire Features: A fire pit or outdoor fireplace can also enhance your lighting while serving as a focal point for your backyard. Plus, the warmth emitted from these features can extend the usability of your outdoor space into the cooler months and keep pesky bugs at bay. 5: Design an Outdoor Kitchen or Bar: Including an outdoor kitchen or bar that’s designed for both style and functionality can make your backyard the ultimate hangout spot, perfect for everything from casual dinners to lively parties. Include top-notch essentials like a high-performance grill, a handy sink, and ample counter space, as well as clever storage solutions to make cooking and hosting effortless. For a touch of luxury, consider features like a built-in pizza oven or a stylish bar with a draft beer system. 6. Plan for Privacy: It’s simple to create a cozy, secluded feel in your outdoor space with elements like trellises, privacy screens, and tall shrubs or plants. Some of our favorite ideas include vertical gardens or hydrangea limelight bushes, which offer a lush, natural barrier and makes your area feel more intimate and private. 7. Integrate Outdoor Entertainment: Consider adding features like a built-in sound system or an outdoor movie theater with a projector and screen. If you have the space, consider including tiered seating with comfy cushions and blankets for a cozy, cinematic experience under the stars. 8: Add an Enclosed Patio: If you love the idea of enjoying your outdoor space without actually being outside, an enclosed patio with large windows or sliding glass doors might be perfect. For added comfort during cooler months, consider including heating options like a built-in fireplace, electric heaters, or heated floors. This setup lets you experience the outdoors year-round while staying warm and cozy inside. Designing an outdoor living area that’s both beautiful and practical requires a bit of planning and a keen eye for detail. But by paying attention to furniture, lighting, privacy, and functional features, you can create a space that not only enhances your home but also serves as a perfect retreat for any occasion. Contact us today to learn more about our endless customization options.
Building a home is about more than just choosing the right finishes and fixtures; it’s about designing spaces that work for your family currently – and in the future. Whether you’re welcoming a newborn, managing the chaos of the back-to-school season, or preparing for an empty nest, the right spaces can make all the difference. When building your custom home with Trinity Homes, consider incorporating the following amenities to ensure it adapts as your family grows. 1. The Mudroom: Anyone with kids (and pets) knows that life can get messy – fast. That’s where the mudroom comes in, helping to organize some of the chaos. This room is more than an area to dump shoes and backpacks though, it’s a space designed to keep your home organized and your sanity intact. Whether it’s adding a drop zone for keys and mail, cubbies for shoes, or a pet washing station (because muddy paws are a real thing), we love customizing this functional area to fit your family’s routine. To inspire you, here’s even more ideas to personalize your home’s mudroom: Lockers or cubbies to keep each family member’s gear in check Hooks for everything from coats to leashes Bench seating with storage underneath A small utility sink for rinsing off dirty hands, shoes, or even rinsing out paintbrushes or gardening tools.
As the school year kicks off, it's not just about new backpacks and sharpened pencils – it might be the perfect time for a new home too! At Trinity Homes, we know how important it is to be in a great school district. Whether you’re thinking about your growing family or looking for a cozy community, we’ve got homes in some of the best districts in Central Ohio. Let’s explore a few of our available gems. Big Walnut School District 591 Parker Run, Galena, OH 43021 Palmetto, Estates at Blackhawk A classic, cozy two-story home, the Palmetto provides the space you need while not skimping on any of the modern must-haves. This home’s open concept design provides a comfortable environment for everyday living, featuring a beautiful great room flowing into the kitchen, with plenty of natural light throughout. With 4 bedrooms, including a second-level primary suite, there is plenty of room for your growing family. Dublin City School District 9300 Hildebrand Drive, Plain City, OH 43064 Biscayne, Mitchell Crossing  If a second-floor laundry is a must-have on your house-hunting list, this is the perfect floor plan for you. The Biscayne features 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, and a 3-car garage. This cozy house adds up to 3,400 square feet and features cathedral primary bedroom ceilings and a spacious mudroom to keep the chaos of a busy life contained and organized in its own space. Hilliard City School District 5232 Estuary Lane, Dublin, OH 43016 Cortez, Lakeside at Avondale This beautiful two-story home has three bedrooms, including a highly sought after first floor primary suite. With 2 ½ baths, over 2,114 square feet of living space, a basement, and a 2-car garage, the Cortez offers the space you need within a cozy footprint. With a flexible design, this home can be customized to meet your family’s unique needs. Olentangy Local School District 6017 Heather Ridge Drive, Delaware, OH 43015 Biscayne, Heather Ridge This 3,400-square-foot home offers four bedrooms, 2 ½ baths, and a three-car garage, all wrapped in cozy charm. Enjoy soaring cathedral ceilings in the primary bedroom and a spacious mudroom, perfect for keeping the hustle and bustle of daily life under control. Plus, second-floor laundry! South-Western City School District 3362 Joberry Loop, Grove City, OH 43123 Newport, Woodside at Holton Run The Newport takes classic design and mixes it with fresh, modern vibes. Part of our 55+ Cottage Collection, this home offers all the open spaces you want with the amenities you need. From the private patio to the light-filled rooms, it’s the perfect retreat for your next chapter. View our entire lineup of available inventory homes.
Before buying an inventory home, it's essential to ask the right questions. You’ll want to have conversations with your realtor, lender, and especially your builder so that you understand what to expect and make informed decisions throughout the process. To help you get started, we've highlighted some key questions to discuss with your builder to ensure everything goes smoothly: Ask to see previous work: To assess the quality of construction and materials, ask to view examples of homes and subdivisions previously built by the builder. A reputable builder will provide you with the names and addresses of their completed communities, and driving through these neighborhoods allows you to assess the exterior quality and see your desired design in real-life settings versus a rendering. Additionally, visiting older communities can give you a sense of the builder’s long-term construction quality and how their homes age over time. At Trinity, we’re happy to offer tours of our established communities, allowing you to see firsthand the durability and craftsmanship of our homes. Ask to tour the model home: Walking through a model home can also help you get a feel for your builder’s style. Keep in mind that model homes often showcase upgrades, so you’ll get an idea of what features are available, but some may come at an extra cost. We pride ourselves in offering true customization throughout the building process. Contact us to learn more about our customization options and Design Center . Ask for customer references and testimonials : Request to speak with other buyers who have purchased inventory homes from the builder, and check for online reviews and testimonials. Speaking with current residents in the builder’s communities can provide valuable insights into their experiences and overall satisfaction. If any issues arose, ask how the builder addressed and resolved them. Ask about community amenities : Find out what amenities are available in the lot’s community, like pools or trails, and find out if there are any additional costs or HOA fees associated with these amenities. Understanding this will help you gauge the overall value and lifestyle offered by the community. Ask about the lot: Make sure to ask about the lot orientation, slope, and location to understand its impact on sunlight, future developments, and privacy. Also, confirm if there are any additional costs for preferred lots. Ask what’s included: Make sure to clarify what’s covered in the base price of your home. Find out if it includes landscaping, appliances, or any upgrades. Understanding what additional costs or fees might arise will help you budget accurately and avoid any surprises later on. Ask if you can you make changes or additions: If you want to make modifications or additions to the home before purchase, ask upfront if your builder allows you to do so. Additionally, inquire about the process and costs associated with making changes to features or upgrades during construction. With Trinity, you will have extensive customization and upgrade options to choose from depending on what stage of construction your home is at. Ask about energy-efficient options: Energy-efficient features save you money and are better for the environment, so it’s worthwhile to ask what energy-efficient features are offered. Ask about the builder’s approach to: Insulation and sealing Appliances Water heating HVAC systems Windows and doors Ask about the project timeline: Ask about the estimated completion date and how the builder handles delays or changes in the construction schedule. It’s important to understand this timeline especially if you’re relying on the sale of your current home to fund the new one. Ask who is overseeing the construction: Find out who will supervise the construction and act as your primary contact throughout the process. This ensures you know who to turn to for progress updates and can communicate your preferences for receiving information. Ask about the payment schedule: It's crucial to have a clear understanding of the payment schedule for your new home. This includes knowing how much deposit is required upfront, when and how you need to pay for any upgrades or customizations, and what the final down payment will be at closing. Understanding these details will help you plan your finances and avoid any surprises during the process. Ask If price fluctuations are considered: With the fluctuating costs of materials and labor, it’s important to know if the price of your home could change during the building process. If the price does increase due to costs, this can significantly impact your budget, so it’s vital to ask about this upfront. Make sure to understand how these potential increases are calculated and communicated as well. This will help you better prepare for any financial changes that might occur during construction. Ask about warranty policies: Review the builder’s warranty, including coverage for structural issues, major systems, and cosmetic defects and inquire about how the builder handles warranty claims or repairs after you move in. Additionally, be sure to ask who your point of contact is if any issues arise with the home post-purchase. At Trinity Homes , we are here to answer questions and guide you through purchasing one of our inventory homes. Our goal is to ensure you feel confident and well-informed every step of the way. From touring our established communities to understanding the payment schedule and warranty policies, we are committed to providing you with all the information you need to make the best decision for your new home. If you have any questions or need more assistance, please contact us. We look forward to helping you find your dream home! 
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