HOA glossaryProperty & ownership

What is a lot?

The individually owned piece of a community — a platted lot in a subdivision, or a unit inside a condominium building.

Also called: Unit, Parcel

The lot or unit is what an owner holds title to and what the covenants attach to. Assessments are levied against it, liens attach to it, and votes are usually allocated per lot rather than per person.

In a condominium, the unit boundary is defined in the declaration and is often narrower than owners assume — commonly the unfinished surfaces of walls, floors and ceilings, with the structure itself common. That boundary decides who repairs a leaking pipe inside a wall.

Because obligations run with the lot rather than the person, a new owner inherits the covenants and, subject to state law and the documents, may inherit unpaid amounts as well. That is what makes the resale certificate and estoppel process matter.

Why it matters to a board

Keep the owner roster keyed to the lot, not the person. Every assessment, vote and notice is really an attribute of the lot.

Where the answer lives

Your recorded declaration and bylaws first, then the act that governs associations in your state. Whichever is stricter is the one that binds you.

Related terms

DeclarationThe recorded instrument that creates the community, submits the land to the association's authority, and defines what is common and what is owned.AssessmentThe recurring charge levied against each lot to fund the association's budget, and the primary obligation of membership.Estoppel certificateA statement from the association, relied on at closing, certifying what a lot owes and whether it is in violation.Common areaThe land and improvements owned or controlled by the association for the benefit of all members.PlatThe recorded survey map that shows lot lines, common area, easements and dedications for the community.
General information, not legal advice. This entry explains what the term means, not what your association must do about it. Any notice period, cure window, fine cap, vote threshold or deadline comes from your recorded declaration and your state's act — those differ in all fifty states and are amended every session. Updated August 2026. Confirm the current requirements with an attorney licensed in your state before acting.
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