DHSUD Homeowners Association and Community Development Program

Imagine living in a community where everyone is working together toward a better, safer, and more harmonious neighborhood.

The DHSUD Homeowners Association and Community Development Program is here to make that dream a reality.

This program is for residents, subdivision owners, and condominium dwellers who want to create a well-organized, legally compliant, and thriving community.

By registering your Homeowners Association (HOA), you not only legitimize your group but also gain access to valuable government support and resources for community development.

Whether you are looking for technical assistance, regulatory compliance, or simply ways to improve your shared spaces, this program can help.

And the best part?

There is no significant cost to register your HOA and enjoy these benefits—just a commitment to work together as a community.

What are Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs)

Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs) are organizations formed by individuals with vested interests in residential properties or housing initiatives. These associations provide a structured framework for managing shared concerns and resources within their communities. Membership can include the following groups:

1. Subdivision and Village Residents: Owners or buyers of lots within subdivisions, villages, or other residential real properties within the association’s jurisdiction.
2. Government Housing Beneficiaries: Awardees, usufructuaries, legal occupants, or lessees of housing units or lots in government-initiated socialized or economic housing projects, relocation areas, or urban estates.
3. Underprivileged and Homeless Citizens: Individuals in the process of being accredited as awardees or usufructuaries under national programs like the Community Mortgage Program (CMP) or Land Tenure Assistance Program (LTAP). These programs are designed to assist underprivileged and homeless citizens in achieving housing stability.
4. Public Housing Beneficiaries in Neighborhood Associations: Potential beneficiaries of public housing who reside in contiguous areas and are identified, accredited, or organized with the assistance of the Local Government Unit (LGU), the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP), or the National Urban Poor Sectoral Council (NUPSC). These individuals may form neighborhood associations as a precursor to formal homeowners’ associations, often as part of resettlement or housing projects led by LGUs or national government agencies.

By uniting individuals within these groups, HOAs foster community organization, enhance local development, and support housing programs designed to improve living conditions for their members.

Why Registering Your Homeowners Association Matters

Registration is the foundation of any well-functioning HOA.

By registering with DHSUD, your HOA gains legal recognition, which is essential for protecting your community’s rights and assets.

A registered HOA can enforce rules, collect dues, and represent the community in legal matters.

Unregistered groups, on the other hand, often face difficulties in resolving disputes or accessing government support.

Think about it: wouldn’t you feel more secure knowing your HOA can act on behalf of your entire neighborhood?

This legitimacy ensures your collective efforts lead to real, tangible improvements in your community.

What Does DHSUD Offer Registered HOAs?

The DHSUD doesn’t just handle registration; it actively supports HOAs in their journey toward community growth.

Here are some of the benefits you’ll enjoy:

• Technical Assistance: Need help organizing your HOA or creating effective by-laws?

DHSUD offers hands-on guidance to set you up for success.

• Conflict Mediation: Disputes are inevitable in any community.

DHSUD provides mediation services to resolve issues amicably and fairly.

• Access to Funding Opportunities: Many government programs offer funding for community improvement projects.

A registered HOA is often a requirement to qualify.

• Training and Seminars: Knowledge is power.

Through training sessions, DHSUD equips HOA leaders with the skills they need to manage their organizations effectively.

Building a Better Community Together

HOAs take the lead in maintaining shared spaces, promoting peace and order, and fostering a sense of community.

When your HOA is organized and supported by DHSUD, you’ll find it easier to:

• Maintain parks, playgrounds, and other communal areas.
• Implement security measures that keep your neighborhood safe.
• Create community programs that bring people together, like clean-up drives or holiday events.

By working together, you’re not just improving the physical space—you’re building a stronger, more connected community.

And who doesn’t want to live in a place where neighbors feel like family?

Requirements

1. Articles of Incorporation: Signed by all incorporators (at least five but not more than fifteen members) on every page, including the acknowledgment page
2. By-Laws: Signed on each page by all incorporators as stated in the Articles of Incorporation
3. Board Resolution: Adopting the Code of Ethics and Ethical Standards for Officers and Board Members of the HOA
4. Incorporators’ Resolution: This should include:

1. • Appointment of a representative authorized to perform all acts necessary for the registration.

1. • Agreement to change the corporate name if another HOA has a prior right to the same or a similar name.

1. • Agreement to any changes in the Articles of Incorporation and/or By-Laws as directed by the HOA unit officer

1. Certification from the Concerned Government Agency: This should attest to:

1. • The name and principal address of the HOA.

1. • The list of members and officers with their addresses and contact numbers.

1. • The location or territorial jurisdiction of the HOA.

1. • Confirmation that no other HOA exists in the same project or proposed project.

General Information Sheet

T he General Information Sheet (GIS) for Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs), is a tool provided by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) to promote compliance and transparency in HOA operations. It allows HOAs to report and update key organizational information efficiently. The form is available for download on the DHSUD website via this link: GIS Form November 2021 Version. Users are encouraged to fill out the form accurately, adhering to the instructions provided, to facilitate smooth processing and compliance with DHSUD requirements.

Are You Eligible to Register Your HOA?

To register a Homeowners Association (HOA) with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) in the Philippines, the following eligibility criteria must be met:

• Incorporators: The HOA must have at least five but not more than fifteen incorporators who are members of the community.
• Documentation: The HOA must submit the necessary documents, including the Articles of Incorporation, By-Laws, and a Board Resolution adopting a Code of Ethics.
• Government Housing Programs: HOAs organized under government housing programs like the Community Mortgage Program (CMP) or the Land Tenurial Assistance Program must also provide certification from the concerned government agency.
• Unique Association: Only one HOA can be registered per subdivision or village, unless the subdivision consists of multiple phases.

How to Register Your HOA

The registration process might sound intimidating, but it’s straightforward.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Organize Your Group: Gather your neighbors and elect officers for the HOA.

A united group is essential for a successful registration.

1. Prepare the Documents: DHSUD requires specific documents, such as by-laws, articles of incorporation, and proof of community ownership or rights.
2. Submit Your Application: Visit the DHSUD office or their website to file your application.

Make sure all your documents are complete to avoid delays.

1. Await Approval: DHSUD will review your application and notify you of any additional requirements.
2. Enjoy the Benefits: Once approved, your HOA is officially recognized and ready to start making a difference.

Need help along the way?

DHSUD’s team is always ready to assist.

How HOAs Contribute to Nation-Building

HOAs are more than just organizations; they are the backbone of community development.

By taking charge of local issues, HOAs lighten the load for local government units and contribute to national progress.

They help with disaster preparedness, peacekeeping, and implementing government programs at the grassroots level.

For instance, an HOA can organize a disaster response team or work with local authorities to improve community infrastructure.

When communities thrive, the entire nation benefits.

By registering your HOA, you’re not just helping your neighbors—you’re playing a part in building a better future for everyone.

Recent Updates

Empowering Communities to Combat Violence Against Women

On December 10th, the DHSUD-HOACDB hosted a seminar focused on preventing violence against women.

Community leaders and members gathered to gain knowledge and tools to create safer neighborhoods.

Director Ma. Lorina Rigor called for action, inspiring participants to unite against violence and discrimination.

Undersecretary Henry Yap and Assistant Secretaries Sharon Faith Paquiz and Melissa Aradanas reinforced the campaign’s important message.

This marks a step forward in fostering inclusive communities committed to ending violence against women.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What happens if a community member refuses to follow HOA rules?

Registered HOAs have the authority to enforce rules and regulations.

If a member refuses to comply, the HOA can issue warnings or impose penalties as outlined in its by-laws.

In extreme cases, legal action may be taken to ensure community harmony.

2. Can small communities with fewer than 50 households form an HOA?

Yes, small communities are eligible to register as HOAs.

DHSUD recognizes the unique needs of smaller groups and provides guidance tailored to their scale.

Even with fewer households, organizing an HOA can significantly benefit your community.

3. Is there a deadline for registering an HOA?

While there is no strict deadline, early registration is encouraged.

The sooner you register, the sooner you can access DHSUD’s support and resources to improve your community.

4. Can an existing HOA update its registration details?

Absolutely.

HOAs can update their registration to reflect changes, such as new officers or amendments to by-laws.

Contact DHSUD for assistance in ensuring your records remain accurate and up to date.

Final Thoughts

Ready to take action?

Start by organizing your community and gathering the necessary documents.

Visit DHSUD’s website or contact their office for guidance.

The journey may require effort, but the rewards—a better, stronger community—are well worth it.

Remember, you don’t have to do this alone.

DHSUD is here to support you every step of the way.

Together, let’s build communities that thrive.