Sonterra HOA

Frequently Asked Questions

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I bought a home and do not have a mailbox. Where is my mailbox and key?
The Jarrell Post Office will assign you a box and give you keys. You must take your ID and lease or closing statement with you to the Post Office.
I just moved into the neighborhood. Where and when do I get my trash can? When is Recycle day?
When a homeowner signs up for water service the trash service will be set up through Clawson Disposal. Please call Clawson Disposal, 512-930-5490 or visit www.clawsondisposal.com for your trash day and recycle calendar.
What should I know about calling the HOA?
If you call (512) 746-5014, LEAVE A MESSAGE. Include your address and call back number. The HOA does not return missed calls. We know it sounds silly, but the message "CALL ME BACK" or calling 20 times WITHOUT leaving a message won't work. You will get a quicker response if you email admin@sonterrahoa.org. We are rarely in our office. NO-REPLY in the email notices sent to you, means just that. We don't get emails sent to the NO-REPLY email address, so please don't hit the REPLY button. Use the forward button and type in admin@sonterrahoa.org. This one is big. If you speak with a representative, try not to yell, become hostile, use profanity or threaten them. No one deserves to be treated like that, they are not here to listen to you yell at them and they will hang up. The representatives are just doing their job of enforcing the CCRs you agreed to follow. They don't know your specific situation, i.e. in the hospital, lost job, death in the family, etc. Generally the HOA will try to work with you.
What can the HOA do when my neighbor's dog barks?
Your HOA CANNOT control dog barking. However, below are some steps that can be taken. Talk to your neighbor first. Call Williamson County animal control at (512) 864-8282 if you feel the dog is being harmed. Call Williamson County Sheriff at (512) 943-1300 as a noise complaint if the barking is after 11:00 PM. You and at least one of your neighbors (2 total) can complete the General Affidavit and email it to admin@sonterrahoa.org. Once the Affidavits are received, the HOA will then be able to send violations to the property with the barking dogs.
What should I know about the HOA?
Understanding Email Notifications from the HOA: The HOA sends out email notifications regarding important updates and announcements. Check your spam/junk folder if you're not receiving HOA emails. Sonterra West HOA uses E-unify as the software program. Add the HOA email to your contacts to prevent emails from being marked as spam. If you change your email address, update it with the HOA to continue receiving notifications. Respecting Communication Hours: Contact the HOA during reasonable hours, preferably on weekdays between 9 AM and 4 PM. Emails are always preferred over phone calls but you may call us at 512-746-5014 and please allow 24-48 hours for a return call. A faster response during weekdays would be admin@sonterrahoa.org . Always state your property address. Using a Respectful Tone: Maintain a respectful and professional tone in all communications. Avoid using aggressive or offensive language, even if you're frustrated. State your concerns or questions clearly and concisely. Attending HOA Meetings: HOA meetings provide an opportunity to voice concerns and ask questions. Check the schedule for regular and special meetings on the HOA website. Submit a request to be added to the meeting agenda if you want to address a specific topic. Following Community Guidelines: Familiarize yourself with the community guidelines and CCR’s before communicating concerns. Refer to specific guidelines when discussing issues related to them. These can all be found on the website. Addressing Conflict: If you have a conflict with another resident, try resolving it amicably before involving the HOA. Effective and respectful communication is crucial for a harmonious relationship between homeowners and the HOA. Following these guidelines will help maintain a positive community environment.
When and how do I pay my HOA dues?
HOA is paid at closing. You will not be billed by the Sonterra West Homeowners Association. However, the following month after closing, you will see a $24.00 Park-n-Rec Fee on your Sonterra MUD water bill monthly.
What is the difference between the HOA and Sonterra MUD?
The HOA ONLY enforces the CCR's. The MUD owns and maintains the common areas, parks and pools.
What are some common violations?
Unkept yards, trash cans not put away, inoperable vehicles (expired tags), trailers, unapproved sheds, patios and dead or missing trees.
If I want to put a shed up or a back patio cover what do I do?
You need to submit an Architectural Review form to the HOA via email. Management will present it to the board members for review. Once approved, a signed copy is maintained in the office. A copy is sent to you as well for your records. Construction may begin.
How does the HOA enforce the CCRs?
HOA Compliance Check: The HOA conducts regular inspections to ensure that properties are in compliance with the CCRs. These checks are typically done on a weekly basis. Courtesy Letter: If a property is found to be in violation of the CCRs, the homeowner on record is issued a "Courtesy Letter." This letter serves as a notice to inform the homeowner about the violation and provides a specified time frame within which the issue must be resolved. Remedy Period: The homeowner is expected to address the violation within the timeframe outlined in the Courtesy Letter. This could involve rectifying the issue, making necessary changes, or addressing any concerns raised by the HOA. Once a violation is open it remains open for 6 months. After the remedy period you can receive additional monetary violations up to 6 months. Violation Notice and Fines: If the homeowner fails to comply with the remedies after the remedy days are specified in the Courtesy Letter, a "Violation Notice" is issued. This notice comes with fines. The first violation typically incurs a $25.00 fine. The notice is legally sent through regular mail and certified mail to ensure the homeowner is aware of the violation and the associated fine. Subsequent Violations: If the same violation occurs within a six-month time period, the fine increases by $25.00 for each subsequent violation. Legal Action: If the homeowner doesn't address the violation and pay the fines, their information and relevant documents might be sent to the HOA's attorney for further legal action. Legal Fees: The homeowner becomes responsible for all legal fees associated with the HOA's legal actions. Impact on Property Sale and Community Amenities: Unpaid fines and fees are attached to the home. This means that if the homeowner tries to sell the property, these unpaid amounts must be settled before the sale can proceed. This can impede the sale of the house until the outstanding fines and fees are resolved. Any outstanding balances will keep you from obtaining any pool passes for each season. It's important for homeowners within an HOA-governed community to be aware of these rules and regulations, as they can significantly impact their property ownership experience and potential financial obligations. Always carefully review your HOA's CCRs and any communications from them to understand your responsibilities as a homeowner within the community.
What are the responsibilities of the owner if a tenant is in the property?
Correspondence: All communication, such as notices, updates, and correspondence from the HOA, is directed towards the homeowner or property manager who is listed on record as the responsible party for the property. This communication is not directly directed towards tenants. Responsibility of Homeowner/Property Manager: The homeowner or property manager is responsible for ensuring that the property complies with the rules, regulations, and guidelines set by the HOA. This includes maintaining the property's condition and ensuring that tenants adhere to any community guidelines. Accountability for Fines: If any fines or penalties are incurred due to non-compliance with the HOA's rules, the homeowner is held accountable for these fines. They are expected to address any violations and take necessary actions to remedy the situation. No Direct Communication with Tenants: The HOA does not engage directly with tenants regarding issues of non-compliance or other matters. The primary point of contact for the HOA is the homeowner or property manager. Property Maintenance: The responsibility for maintaining the property, ensuring it adheres to community standards, and addressing any non-compliance issues falls upon the homeowner or property manager. This includes addressing any violations and making necessary repairs or improvements. It's important for all parties involved—the HOA, homeowners, property managers, and tenants—to understand their respective roles and responsibilities as outlined in the governing documents and agreements. Clear communication channels and understanding these roles help maintain a well-functioning community and property management system.
What are the HOA office hours?
HOA is located at PO Box 81. They do not accept walk-ins; it is by appointment only. You may call with questions or for an appointment to 512-746-5014 or email manager@sonterrahoa.org.
How can I get a pool pass key?
The pool is owned by the Sonterra MUD. The pool is open seasonally. When open you may take your MUD bill and an ID to the pool office for a pool pass.
Why are there not speed bumps?
The streets are owned and maintained by Williamson County. Please contact the Williamson County Road and Bridge department with any questions about traffic, signs, speed limits, etc.
I see loose cats and dogs in the neighborhood. Who do I call?
You can call Williamson County Animal Control to report the animals.
Who do I call if I want to report a crime?
If the crime is happening right now, call 9-1-1. Otherwise, call the Williamson County Sheriff's department. Jarrell Police Department does not have jurisdiction in Sonterra.
Can I pop Fireworks in Sonterra?
No. Fireworks are strictly prohibited. There is a $2500.00 fine for anyone discharging fireworks in the Sonterra Community. See “HOA Fireworks Enforcement Letter”.
Why do we have an HOA and MUD?
The Sonterra Homeowners Association (HOA) is responsible for architectural control and restrictive covenants enforcement. The Sonterra MUD is responsible for providing water and wastewater service and for maintaining the infrastructure (pipes and stuff) that carry these liquids. Sonterra began a Park and Recreation Dept. in the summer of 2011 for park, pool, and common area upkeep.