Security Shutters in HOA

Started by SusanO3 • 13 replies • 150 views

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SusanO3 (California)
Posts: 163

Posted:

95 townhomes, HOA owns building exteriors, but homeowner replaces windows (subject to ARC approval). Recent break in via a window has prompted resident discussion on Whats App about security bars. I'm thinking bars would not enhance appeal of homes in Association, but maybe exterior security blinds, electric, retract into a box above window (subject to ARC approval), likely more expensive than bars, are an acceptable alternative.

Anyone got experience to share with me? Thanks, Sue

SheliaH (Indiana)
Posts: 6,964

Posted:

Bars on windows can prevent people from escaping in case of fire, and they're ugly. In my community we had an owner who installed bars on every window, making the house look like a prison (I'm also in a townhouse community). We made him remove all of them (put them up without permission anyway).

I wouldn't allow them and although everyone's concerned about this break in, that doesn't necessarily mean you have a trend. We are in the holiday season and so this could have been an opportunity some crook happened to see and took advantage of.

It would be better to call the non-emergency number of your police department to get some tips on how to prevent such break-ins and post them in your community newsletter or website.

If it is not right do not do it; if it is not true do not say it. Marcus Aurelius

SusanO3 (California)
Posts: 163

Posted:

Thanks, I agree with you on the prison like look of security bars. Sue

CathyA3 (Ohio)
Posts: 6,299

Posted:

Adding to what Sheila said, the bars may violate fire or building codes. (In my area we can't have bars on bedroom windows.)

One of my neighbors has a Beware of Dog sign on his front door, and he's rigged up something to play the sound of a barking dog if someone steps onto the front or back porches. It's pretty convincing.

TimB4 (Tennessee)
Posts: 21,061

Posted:

In my previous association we had a request for security bars.
The Board said that they could go on the inside but not the outside of the window.
The bars were never installed.

SusanO3 (California)
Posts: 163

Posted:

Thanks to all for your replies. Sue

LetA (Nevada)
Posts: 2,679

Posted:

There are shade screens that double as security screens. they have a latch inside that can be turned for immediate emergency egress.

They are becoming popular here in southern Nevada. Their name begins with a four letter word you call your supervisor followed
by what the product is. They might service SoCal. IDK

JohnC46 (South Carolina)
Posts: 14,265

Posted:

Quote:

Posted By SusanO3 on 12/08/2024 1:51 PM
Thanks, I agree with you on the prison like look of security bars. Sue

I agree also.

JohnC46 (South Carolina)
Posts: 14,265

Posted:

Quote:

Posted By SusanO3 on 12/08/2024 1:51 PM
Thanks, I agree with you on the prison like look of security bars. Sue

I agree also.

TerriS6 (California)
Posts: 3,284

Posted:

Bars have to open in case of fire. Will your insurance increase?

SusanO3 (California)
Posts: 163

Posted:

Dear LetA: Thanks for the tip, found them! They even advertise themselves as HOA Approved! Sue

DeanJ
Posts: 1,786

Posted:

You would also reduce the property values because potential buyers would see the barred windows as an indication of a crime propblem.

KerryL1 (California)
Posts: 14,550

Posted:

Agree w/Dean.

LetA (Nevada)
Posts: 2,679

Posted:

Glad you found them handy they indeed do have a curb appealing product

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