There are about 358,000 homeowners associations (HOAs) in the United States. Their popularity is a reflection of the ways they make communities better.
Increasingly, HOA property maintenance means looking for ways to be more sustainable. This can be a challenge since HOAs are run by volunteer community members who may have no idea how to go about this.
The good news is that there are some easy and effective ways to increase sustainability in your neighborhood. Keep reading for ideas on how to reduce waste, limit environmental impact, and make your Austin community a more enjoyable place to live.
Look at Landscaping Practices
One of the easiest ways to bolster sustainability in your community is to look for inefficiencies. For instance, you can switch to native and drought-resistant plants in communal areas. Choosing plants and trees friendly to pollinators is also an easy way to help the environment.
Reducing water waste is another effective tool for sustainable HOA property maintenance. You can group plants with similar watering needs together to cut down on water waste. Consider installing more efficient sprinklers and irrigation systems. All of this can help reduce your HOA's monthly water bill as well.
Start a Recycling Program
If your neighborhood or condo lacks curbside recycling, you can offer opportunities. Start by educating residents about the importance of recycling, then set up drop-off locations.
Ensure people understand what can and cannot go into bins. Include information about removing food waste from materials.
Even if you have recycling for paper, plastic, or glass, there are often products that need special care. Batteries, electronics, and metals are a few examples. Starting a community recycling program for these items is an easy way to keep them out of landfills.
Build a Community Garden
There are many benefits to community gardens. They beautify the landscape, provide fresh produce, and help clean the air. They also are great for building stronger communities through shared planning and work.
Community gardens can help relieve stress and encourage exercise. They also can be an educational tool for children and adults alike. Even if you do not have a lot of excess land, there may be opportunities to build raised beds or even rooftop gardens.
Provide Information
Offering resources for green practices is a simple and easy way to promote sustainability in your community. Add information for having an eco-friendly home to your HOA website. This can include installing energy-efficient appliances and low-flow faucets.
You can also offer free classes on gardening, composting, or making rainwater barrels. Reach out to existing community members to do presentations on particular subjects. If possible, make it hands-on, so it is fun for the entire family.
Learn More About Sustainability in HOA Property Maintenance
Now that you know some green initiatives for HOA property maintenance, you can determine which are right for you. With just a little planning and effort, you can make your neighborhood better for residents and the environment.
PMI Silicon Hills is a full-service property management company serving the Austin area. We provide a variety of services, including HOA maintenance and board resources.
Reach out to us today to learn more about association management and other benefits.
