A Need a good set or ARC guidelines

Started by KellyT • 3 replies • 1153 views

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KellyT (Ga)
Posts: 25

Posted:

Our neighborhood has over 20 homes that will be undergoing reconstruction. The houses weren't wrapped correctly, brick, siding and new roofing are parts of it. We are asking these homes to submit ARC requests to insure they will not significantly change the exterior of their home. I know there are going to be improvements, maybe a new door or window. I don't blame them, the builder screwed up their homes and they deserve to have them re-built correctly. So, what if certain types of siding are not available anymore or a homeowner wants a really nice door? For example, a homeowner is asking for approval on an Oval window on their new door and some etched sunlight glass. It would be the only one in the neighborhood but, it would be an improvement to the original door based on some moisture issues and the heat of the sun. It isn't the same type of door but, from the pictures I believe it will look very nice. They will be keeping it the same color as well. Can you still allow it and keep uniformity. I'm just not sure. I think we need the right phrasing as to were we might be able to allow this door and other improvements even though a bit different and still insure that no one will install something that is bright pink.

Thanks guys!

JohnB26 (South Carolina)
Posts: 1,569

Posted:

if you truly want 'uniformity' then, after all construction is complete:

spray paint EVERYTHIG battleship grey

if you want CCR compliance - read same and write guidelines

remember: what you would like is not the issue

what the covenants say (or DO NOT SAY) is the determining factor

you may NOT be arbitrary or capricious - what you had before was NO FREAKIN GOOD

let the HOs in question make their improvements

if they violate their contract (CCRs) take action

if y'all do not understand the CCRs, get legal opinion(s)

KellyT (Ga)
Posts: 25

Posted:

It's like working with a clean slate. I hear you.

TimB4 (Tennessee)
Posts: 21,059

Posted:

Quote:

Posted By KellyT on 01/23/2014 12:01 PM

We are asking these homes to submit ARC requests to insure they will not significantly change the exterior of their home.

Typically, requests are done only if the exterior is changing. If it is staying the same (simply repainting with the same color) requests normally are not submitted.

Quote:

Posted By KellyT on 01/23/2014 12:01 PM

So, what if certain types of siding are not available anymore or a homeowner wants a really nice door? For example, a homeowner is asking for approval on an Oval window on their new door and some etched sunlight glass. It would be the only one in the neighborhood but, it would be an improvement to the original door based on some moisture issues and the heat of the sun.

If the request isn't in violation of the covenants or architectural guidelines, the decision, to be honest, boils down to the personal tastes of those serving on the approving committee. Since personal tastes vary, this can be the cause of many heartaches in the community.

For our Association, if the issue boils down to personal tastes, we tend to give the owner the benefit of the doubt and approve it. Once something is approved for one, it should be approved for all.

We also had individuals who wanted a glass pane in the door. The proposed door looked great and there were logical reasons to have it. The committee approved it and proposed a guideline to the Board for their approval (so the doors could be somewhat standardized). Now it seems that everyone is slowly changing their doors to this new design.

Don't be afraid of changes. They could become the new normal.

BTW, here is our guideline on the doors:

"Front doors must be constructed of heavy metal or fiberglass and have either six solid panels with no windows, or four solid panels with windows as top panels or a fan window in place of the top panels. Etched windows in a colonial style will be considered on its own merits. Door windows must be clear or beveled glass. Tinted or stained glass is prohibited. Front doors must be painted the same color as the shutters. Trim on the windows in the door must be the color of the door"

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