November 6, 2025
You just got your offer accepted at The Crossings. Now comes the part no one talks about enough: the HOA move-in rules. If you plan ahead, your move can be smooth, fast, and free of surprise fees. In this guide, you’ll learn what The Crossings buyers typically need to arrange, how to handle insurance and elevator reservations, and when to contact the City of Mountain View for parking or permits. Let’s dive in.
Homeowner associations in California operate under the Davis-Stirling Common Interest Development Act and each community’s CC&Rs, Bylaws, and Rules and Regulations. These give the HOA authority to manage common areas and adopt reasonable move-in policies that protect elevators, corridors, and finishes while keeping the community running smoothly.
Most communities publish a written Move-In/Move-Out Policy. It explains how to book elevators, what insurance documents your movers must provide, permitted hours, deposits and fees, and how damages are handled. Ask the association or management company for the current policy as soon as your closing date is firm.
Every association is a little different, so confirm details with The Crossings’ management. The items below reflect common practices for California condo and planned communities and will help you plan the logistics.
Many associations require advance reservations for elevators and service areas. You usually book a specific date and time block. If a service elevator exists, you may be required to use it.
Movers are typically required to protect common areas. Expect to see elevator pads, door and wall guards, and floor runners. Your movers should remove boxes, wrapping, and debris from common areas at the end of the day.
Costs often include a nonrefundable administrative fee and a refundable damage deposit. Typical ranges are reservation fees of about $50 to $200 and refundable deposits of about $250 to $2,000. These are general ranges only. Verify the exact amounts with The Crossings.
Most HOAs require a Certificate of Insurance before move day. Common requirements include:
Many associations require the COI 3 to 7 days before the move. Without it, movers may be denied access to common areas.
Plan for two types of charges:
Some HOAs add fees for weekend or after-hours moves. After your move, management will inspect the areas used. If no damage is found, deposits are typically returned within the timeframe listed in the policy. If repairs are needed, the HOA will deduct costs and provide an itemized statement or invoice for any excess.
To limit noise and disruption, many HOAs restrict move-in hours. Weekdays between typical business hours are common. Some communities allow limited weekend moves with an extra fee. Lead time to reserve can run 7 to 30 days, especially during peak seasons. Some HOAs also require the owner to be present to check in and out with management or security.
Expect to check in with management or security on move day. Movers may need an escort or be restricted to certain entrances and routes. Parking and loading are often limited to designated areas. If your movers plan to stage on a public street, review City of Mountain View rules early and confirm whether a temporary parking or curb permit is required.
Standard rules include protective pads on elevators, floor runners in corridors, and careful handling of dollies or hand trucks. Movers are often prohibited from crossing landscaped areas, smoking on-site, leaving debris, or idling vehicles where not allowed.
Some associations require moving crews to haul away packing materials and large items. Others provide access to specific dumpsters and may charge extra for bulky items. Ask whether appliances or oversized debris must be handled through the city’s solid waste and recycling service.
Many HOAs document the condition of common areas before and after moves. If damage occurs, the owner is typically responsible for costs. You can usually dispute charges through the process outlined in the association’s governing documents.
City requirements can apply if your move impacts the public right of way. Plan ahead so your movers are not delayed.
Use this planning sequence to keep your move on track.
Use these quick lists to keep details clear for your team and movers.
These figures are common benchmarks and not specific to The Crossings. Always confirm the current rules and amounts with the HOA.
If you want a move-in plan that feels organized from closing to keys, our team’s local process and vendor network can help you reserve correctly, meet COI requirements, and avoid last-minute surprises. Ready to streamline your move to The Crossings? Schedule a Consultation with the Unknown Company.
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