Architectural Review in Your Association

architectural review

 

Architectural Review in Your Association

With Spring quickly approaching, many homeowners begin planning home improvement projects which affect the exterior elements of their residence.  Before you break out the miter saw, hire a contractor, obtain building permits, and take other necessary steps, it is pertinent to consult the governing documents of your Community to determine the appropriate architectural review process.  Most Community Associations require homeowners to have your plans reviewed and approved in writing by your Association’s Architectural Committee and/or Board of Directors before the home improvement project begins.

While it may seem arbitrary from an individual homeowner’s standpoint, the architectural review process looks out for the entire Community as a whole.  Aside from stopping residents from painting pink polka dots on their houses, the Association’s job  is to make sure that the size and style of the project, the type of building materials being used, and the overall look of the new structure or interior improvement adheres to the Association’s design and requirements of the governing documents.  The architectural review process helps to keep the Community looking harmonious.  The architectural review process also helps to keep property values on the rise by preventing individual structures and exterior elements from being inconsistent in appearance with the balance of the community.  Of course, it’s also important to note that, depending upon the documents of your Association, unapproved structures might legally have to be removed at the owner’s expense, so save yourself money and headaches by getting approval before building.

When you are getting ready to start planning your next home improvement project it is important to involve the property manager early in the planning process.  It may save you time, money, and headaches.  If the design of your project changes midway through the building project, it is important to send your plans to the Association first so that they can make sure you are in compliance with the Association’s design standards and processes.

If the Association finds any issues, in many instances they will let you know what they are and try to work with you and your contractor to come up with alternatives.  Boards and neighbors appreciate all of the hard work homeowners have done to make their homes and the community beautiful.  It is best to keep your Association looking great by keeping everyone in the loop with all your building projects and remodeling plans.

PENCO Management has the expertise to deal with various issues that your Homeowners or Condominium Association may encounter on a daily basis. Our company provides Property Management services to New Castle, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Berks, Bucks, and Lancaster Counties.  Our management team would be happy to schedule a meeting with your Board of Directors to discuss your Communities’ needs.

Submitted By: S. Erney

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