Architectural Approval for Exterior Changes
Unless otherwise indicated, a homeowner may not make any changes to the exterior of a building. The exterior includes the outside surfaces of walls, windows, roofs, foundations, chimneys, stoops, railings, and patio areas. Changes refer to any deletion, alteration, or addition that was not part of the original unit constructed by the builder which involves the use of brick, wood, concrete block, mortar, stones, glass, metals, or other building materials.
The Board of Directors has an Architectural Committee to help insure that the appearance of the Oaks is consistent and maintained. If a Homeowner is performing simple upkeep or repair in other words, replacing like with like this may be done without Architectural Committee approval. Therefore, existing materials must be replaced with like materials, new color must match the existing color, and overall size, design, and effect must remain the same. Also, Homeowners may replace or correct sub-standard material or workmanship that may already exist without Architectural Committee approval, as long as the resulting effect is the same. Many of our decks and porches are currently constructed with 1″ x 6′ boards. If replacing all decking boards, our Management Company recommends using 5/4″ decking boards, which are considered standard.
Any changes, additions, or renovation made that are not in compliance with the provisions of the Articles or the rules of the Architectural Control Committee will be in violation, and the homeowner will be liable for the adjustments.
Approved Specification for Storm Windows and Storm Doors:
The Board, upon recommendation of the Architectural Control Committee, has approved the following specifications for storm windows and storm doors. If a homeowner abides fully with these types of alterations, it is unnecessary to secure the prior approval of the Committee.
Storm Doors
- Storm doors may have either wood or aluminum frames.
- Storm doors must be painted in the color of the front entrance door. Storm doors that are unpainted or of a color that contrasts with the color of the front entrance door are not acceptable. Maintenance of the storm door is the homeowners responsibility, this includes painting.Two basic designs for storm doors have been approved: The approved door design has two glass and/or screen panels, and or a single glass panel. In either case the frame should be plain and unadorned.
Procedure for Architectural Approval: Homeowners desiring to make any exterior changes, other than those specified in the previous section, must make a proposal in writing to the Board. This rule applies, but is not limited, to the following types of changes or additions: fences, sheds, awnings, light fixtures, chimneys, paint colors, vents, gas tanks, exterior doors, windows, decks, patio structure, solar panels, and antennas. It also applies to storm doors, storm windows, and mailboxes that do not conform to the specifications listed above.
The procedure for securing approval is as follows:
- A completed Architectural Request Form, or a written request must be submitted to the management company at least 50 days before work is to begin on the change. The management company will review the request and submit it to the chairperson of the Architectural Control Committee.
- The request should contain a full description of the proposed change, including dimensions, materials, colors, sketches, etc. The chairperson of the Committee may request additional information, such as pictures, samples of materials, etc. for certain types of changes. A copy of the plot for the unit must be attached to request for fences and sheds. Requests for paint color changes must be accompanied by a color chip for each new color. An Architectural Request form is included.
- The Committee will consider the request as to the nature of the change or alteration, Design, Location, Materials, Colors, Impact on neighbors, and Compatibility with the original structure.
- The homeowner will be informed of the Committee’s approval or disapproval within 30 days of the receipt of the initial request by the Committee chairperson.
- If the homeowner is not notified within this time, then the homeowner may proceed with the proposed changes or alterations.
- If the Committee turns down a request for a change or approves it with conditions unacceptable to the homeowner, an appeal may be submitted in writing to the Board of Directors.
Homeowner Responsibilities for Exterior Changes: Homeowners must maintain any changes and additions in good repair so as not to become unsightly and a nuisance. Any costs incurred in maintaining additions or in repairing damage to the original structure resulting from construction or installation will be borne exclusively by the homeowner.
Homeowners making exterior changes are also responsible for any damage to common areas during construction and for the prompt clean up of any construction debris.
When selling a unit, the homeowner has the responsibility to describe in detail any homeowner changes, additions or improvements to the buyer.