Property Improvement
We make updating your home easy!
You’ll Need Approval If You Are:
HOA documents require homeowners to seek approval from their review committee prior to installing or removing anything on the property. Getting approval at the onset of project planning and knowing that the design meets the HOA guidelines allows you to make potential large purchases with confidence!
Even with routine maintenance, being exposed to the elements can impact your fencing or home exterior. The weather inevitably causes damage from time to time. When the expected or unexpected happens, everyone in the neighborhood should get approval for repairs using the HOA’s CC&Rs as their guide.
You’ll Need Approval If You Are:
HOA documents require homeowners to seek approval from their review committee prior to installing or removing anything on the property. Getting approval at the onset of project planning and knowing that the design meets the HOA guidelines allows you to make potential large purchases with confidence!
Even with routine maintenance, being exposed to the elements can impact your fencing or home exterior. The weather inevitably causes damage from time to time. When the expected or unexpected happens, everyone in the neighborhood should get approval for repairs using the HOA’s CC&Rs as their guide.
Ready to submit a request? It’s quick and easy!
We want to help you by gathering the information your HOA’s review committee needs to approve your request, fast!
Not all property improvements require the same supporting documents, which is why we will only request information that is relevant to your request. This helps the HOA’s review committee quickly determine if the request meets the HOA’s requirements for that type of property improvement.
Exterior Painting
Most HOAs have strict requirements regarding the home’s exterior paint color. If you plan on painting the exterior of your home, you will need to first submit a property improvement request.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- A breakdown detailing what portions of the home will be painted which color
- A color image of any paints or stains that will be used with the brand and color name or code to be used.
- A current, color photo of the home
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Lighting
Adding extra lighting can create a huge wow factor for people visiting you at night. If you are planning on installing driveway lights, tree accent lights, walkway lights, or house accent lights, you will first need to submit a property improvement request to ensure your lights meet the community’s requirements.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- Information on the light(s) that will be installed:
- Type of lighting
- Location of lighting
- Any supporting documentation, like photos, brochures, etc.
- A current, color photo of the home with the project location marked
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Cameras
Security and safety is a top priority, which is why many homeowners opt for video surveillance as an added security measure. To ensure you won’t be in violation of your governing documents when placing cameras on your property, be sure to submit a property improvement request.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- Information regarding the camera(s) that will be installed:
- Type of camera(s)
- Location of camera(s)
- A photo or brochure of the camera(s)
- Photos of the areas of the home where the cameras will be installed
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Gutters
Tired of water marks in the front of your house after a heavy rain? Worried that the rain may be causing water damage? Make sure your preferred gutters are HOA-approved by submitting a property improvement request.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- The color and material of the gutters
- A photo or brochure of the gutters
- A design plan that shows the proposed locations of where the gutters are being installed, including locations of the downspouts
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Landscaping/ Irrigation/ Drainage
Flowers, bushes, and other plants placed in an expertly created stone flower bed can improve the look of your home and make the outside of your home feel uniquely yours. With all the work involved in gardening, we don’t want you to get started and then realize your plans do not meet the standards set in your community’s CC&Rs. To ensure your gardening dreams can be realized, submit a property improvement request.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- The type of landscaping work you are doing (Artificial Turf, French Drain, Drainage, Irrigation, Landscaping, or Other)
- A description of the modification you would like to make and location of the improvement
- A list of the materials used for the modification
- Any supporting documents, like photo samples, brochures, etc.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Playscape/ Trampoline
Do you want to bring kid friendly fun to your backyard? Your documents may have restrictions on size and placement of any additions like trampolines (with nets and without), playscapes, and swing sets. Submitting an improvement request with us ensures your children will be jumping, swinging, and sliding to their hearts delight in no time at all.
For this request, you will need to provide the following information:
- The dimensions, material(s), and color(s) of the playscape, trampoline, swing set, or other modification
- A photo or brochure of the playscape, trampoline, swing set, or other modification
- A description of the modification that you would like to make
- Any needed supporting documentation
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Concrete Work/ Slabs/ Patio/ Deck
Do you dream of sitting on your custom-made deck by your outdoor fireplace, sipping a delicious beverage? We can help make sure your dreams for s’mores night become a reality! Since some HOAs have restrictions on what modifications can be made to an individual’s backyard, you will need to submit a property improvement request for the addition or modification of any patio, deck, slab, or concrete work to ensure your plans are in accordance with your community’s governing documents.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- Information regarding the modification:
- A description of the planned modification
- Any materials that will be used for the modification
- Dimensions of the new area to be added
- Dimensions of the slab, if applicable: Length X Width X Thickness and PSI (Concrete Info)
- If the new area will have cover. If so, additional information regarding the cover will be requested:
- Will the top be open or slats, or have a solid cover or roof?
- Design Plans for the cover, including dimensions (Length X Width X Peak Height) and materials to be used
- A photo or design sample of how the project will look upon completion. A photo of similar work completed by the contractor is sufficient.
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Covered Patio/ Pergola/ Gazebo/ Outdoor Kitchen
Something as simple as a covered patio, pergola, or even a gazebo can provide some nice, covered seating and can help you enjoy nature in style. Many HOAs’ governing documents have standards for any addition to your home’s backyard, which is why you will need to submit a property improvement request if you are planning on adding or modifying a covered patio, pergola, gazebo, or outdoor kitchen.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- A description of the modification you would like to make
- A list of the materials to be used
- The dimensions of the new area to be added or modified, including the max height
- Height of the top of the cover or roof
- A design sample/photo representation of how the project will look once completed. A photo of similar work completed by the contractor is also sufficient
- Information regarding the roof/cover:
- Will the top be open/slats or have a solid cover/roof?
- A list of materials to be used for the cover/roof
- Dimensions of the cover/roof (Length X Width X Peak Height)
- Any supporting documentation, pictures, brochures, etc.
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Driveway/ Sidewalk
Do you want to expand your driveway to allow easy departure and entry from your vehicles? Do your kids dream of shooting some hoops with friends on the driveway? Any modification made to the front yard is highly visible, and, as such, is likely to be regulated by the governing documents. You will need to submit a property improvement request to ensure your plans meet all HOA requirements.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- Information regarding the modification:
- A description of the modification you would like to make.
- Dimensions of the area to be added/modified.
- List the materials to be used.
- A photo of the existing area where the driveway/walkway is being installed.
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Shed/ Outbuilding/ Workshop
Whether you’ve always dreamed of having a she shed, or just want an extra place to store all your tools, sheds and similar accessory buildings are a great addition to any yard. Before adding to shed/outbuilding/workshop to your home, or modifying/expanding/removing an existing one, you will need to submit a property improvement request.
For this request, you will need to provide the following information:
- Specifications regarding the improvement:
- Whether it is a shed, outbuilding, or workshop
- Length, width, and peak height of structure
- What materials will be used to construct structure and what colors are selected for the body, trim, and roof.
- If plumbing or electrical will be added to the structure. If so, electrical and plumbing plans will be requested.
- If the structure will be on a permanent base or slab. If so, details on the base’s materials and dimensions will be requested.
- A photo or brochure of the shed/outbuilding/workshop which shows the design, colors and materials to be used
- Current photos of your home that include the front and rear of the home to include the roof
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are a great option for the energy conscious and for those looking to reduce their energy bill. Your HOA may limit where a solar panel can be displayed — so you’ll want to be sure to submit a property improvement request if you are planning on adding new solar panels to your home or moving existing solar panels.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- Information on the solar panels:
- The type of solar panels (Ground or Roof Mounted)
- Panel specifications
- A panel map
- If panels will be visible from the street
- If so, an efficiency letter will be requested to state the installation of solar panels on the rear portion of home would decrease energy production by at least 10%
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram (only for Ground Mounted type).
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Pool/ Hot Tub/ Spa
Many owners consider many options to stay cool, including in group and above-ground pools. HOA governing documents provide guidance for what types of pools and spas are allowed in your community. The committee will ensure your submission for the following meet these requirements. Submit a property improvement request if you are planning on adding a new pool, changing the location of an existing above ground pool, or adding a hot tub or similar feature.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- Information on the pool/hot tub/spa:
- The type of pool (in ground, above ground, hot tub, or spa)
- Dimensions of the pool and any surrounding decking to be added
- A list of the materials to be used for the pool and any surrounding decking
- Dimensions of the above ground pool/hot tub/spa
- The location of the pool/hot tub/spa
- What is the foundation type and materials
- Any supporting color pictures, brochures or design plans
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Air Conditioning/ Generators
Air Conditioning/Generators
If you live in a location prone to severe inclement weather or hot temperatures, then we understand you might want to take certain precautions to stay safe and comfortable in your home. Prior to adding a brand-new air conditioning unit or generator to your home, or changing the location of an existing generator or air conditioning unit, you will need to submit a property improvement request.
For this request, you may need to provide the following information:
- What will the unit be placed on and what are the dimensions of this area?
- Will a new slab of concrete need to be poured for this area?
- A product brochure of the air conditioning unit that includes the specifications.
- A picture or brochure of the generator that includes Model and Type.
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Fencing
While Robert Frost once wrote that good fences make good neighbors, if you install a fence that falls outside of your community’s standards, you might find your relationship with your neighbors souring. You will need to submit a property improvement request to make sure that your chosen fence is within the community’s standards.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- Information regarding the fence:
- What type of fencing material and material for the fence post will be used.
- Will a rot board be installed?
- Dimensions for the fence, including the dimensions for the fence pickets, rot board (if applicable), etc.
- How many backer rails will be used?
- Will the fence be stained? If so, a photo/sample of the selected stain is required
- A photo or design sample of how the project will look upon completion. A photo of similar work completed by the contractor is also sufficient
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Roof
Inclement weather can sometimes cause homeowners to need roof repairs sooner than they’d like. Even if a hailstorm or hurricane doesn’t strike, roofs typically need to be replaced every 15-20 years. Before starting work on your roof, or making repairs, you will need to submit a property improvement request to ensure your chosen materials fall within your community’s CC&R guidelines.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- Will you be replacing with identical materials and colors to your current roof?
- The shingle manufacturer, shingle series, name of shingle color, and shingle warranty (i.e. 25-year, 30-year, etc.), or submit a brochure from the shingle manufacturer that lists all of this information
- A photo or brochure of the roofing material to be used
- A current, color photo of the home that includes the roof
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Windows/ Shutters/ Solar Screen
Interested in making your windows more energy efficient? It’s likely that your community has guidelines regarding what kind of windows can be installed. Prior to adding any new windows, removing any existing windows, or changing the type of a pre-existing window, you will need to submit a property improvement request.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- Information on what you will be adding or replacing (Windows, Shutters, or Solar Screens) and if it will be identical to the materials/colors of your current windows
- For shutters or solar screens, the following will be requested:
- A photo or brochure of the shutters/solar screens
- A marked photo that displays the placement/location of the shutters/solar screens
- Shutters color or solar screen color, material, and frames
- For windows, the following will be requested:
- Window specification, including brand, style, and color
- The number of windows to be replaced
- A photo or brochure of the window
- If trim will be painted around the window. If so, a color photo or sample of trim color will be requested
- A current, color photo of the home
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Doors/ Garage Doors
Want to create a striking entry to your home? We can help! Since you can’t make changes to the front of your home without prior approval from the HOA, you will need to first submit a property improvement request before painting or changing the look of an existing door, adding a new door, or making any other changes to the appearance of your home’s entryway.
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- Information on which door you will be improving or replacing:
- Is it a front door, garage door, or other
- If you will be using identical materials and colors to your current door
- Door specifications, including color
- A photo or brochure of the door
- A current photo of the home including the door being replaced
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Siding
Feel like your siding needs an update? Don’t forget to submit a property improvement request to make sure your chosen material and color fits your governing documents’ restrictions!
For this request, you will need to provide the following:
- Whether or not you will be replacing your siding with identical materials and colors to current siding
- Siding specifications (color, material and dimensions)
- A color photo or brochure of the siding
- A current, color photo of the home
- Photo(s) of the area that needs repair
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Mailbox
When going to purchase a mailbox for your home, you’ll see that they come in a vast variety of shapes and colors. To ensure that your mailbox meets the requirements of your HOA, you’ll need to submit a property improvement request when purchasing a new mailbox or making any modifications to an already existing mailbox.
For this request, you will need to provide the following information:
- Materials to be used
- Photo samples of the mailbox to be installed
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Flagpole
Flags are a colorful and fun way to add a touch of color and self-expression to your home or proudly showcase your cultural heritage, religion, or patriotism. But before installing a flagpole/flag, you will need to submit a property improvement request to ensure that your flagpole and flag meet your community’s requirements.
For this request, you will need to provide the following information:
- Color photo or brochure of the flagpole
- Dimensions of the flag
- Height of the flagpole
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Retaining Wall
If your home has a sloped or uneven lot, you may be considering a retaining wall to help with soil management, avoiding erosion, or to add structural support. To add or modify a retaining wall on your property, you will first need to submit a property improvement request to ensure your plans meet all HOA requirements.
For this request, you will need to provide the following information:
- Briefly describe the modification to make
- Materials to be used
- Dimensions of the retaining wall
- Supporting documentation, pictures, brochures, etc.
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Trash Can Enclosure/ Privacy Screening/ Lattice
Whether you’re wanting to shield your trash cans from view, or reinforce the privacy of space, you will need to submit a property improvement request to ensure that the screening/enclosure meets all HOA requirements.
For this request, you will need to provide the following information:
- Is this request for a trash can enclosure or lattice/privacy screening?
- Material and dimensions
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
New Home Construction
- Design plan that includes: site plan, septic plan and permit (if applicable), floor plan, electrical, roofing, elevation, and foundation.
- Color photo samples of all exterior materials- brick, stone, stucco, roof, paint, etc.
- Certificate of insurance (provided by builder)
- Foundation form plan
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
Once received a member of our ACC team will reach out with any additional requirements and deposit amounts for your community.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
New Addition
When making any modification that changes the exterior of your home like an expansion, add-on, garage conversion, building a deck or porch, etc., you will need to submit a property improvement request to ensure that your plans meet all HOA requirements.
For this request, you will need to provide the following information:
- Briefly describe the modification you would like to make
- Dimensions of the new improvement
- Materials to be used
- Supporting color photos, brochures, architectural design plans
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Waterfront Improvement
With waterfront property, you may need to make modifications to give you better access to the water. Before making any modifications, you will need to submit a property improvement request to ensure that your plans meet all HOA requirements.
For this request, you will need to provide the following information:
- Type of waterfront improvement? Boat lift, Dock/Pier, or Boathouse
- Will pilings be used?
- Describe the pilings being used
- Materials to be used
- Dimensions of new area to be added
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Satellite Dish
Installing a satellite dish can be a cost-effective way to bring entertainment into your home. Prior to making any installations or modifications to an existing satellite dish, you’ll need to submit a property improvement request to ensure that the size and location of your satellite dish meets all HOA requirements.
For this request, you will need to provide the following information:
- Describe where the satellite dish will be installed (front, side or back of home roofline)
- Dimensions of the satellite dish
- Photo(s) of the home with the project location marked
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Rain Barrel
Rain barrels can be an eco-friendly solution to keeping your garden and yard green while reducing your water bill and your strain on local resources. Before purchasing a rain barrel for your home, you will first need to submit a property improvement request to ensure that your rain barrel meets the requirements of your HOA.
For this request, you will need to provide the following information:
- Color photo or brochure of the rain barrel(s)
- How many are being installed
- Dimensions of the barrels
- Rain barrel color
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
Basketball Goal
Having a basketball goal can be a fun way to bond with family and friends while getting in some physical activity close to the comfort of your own home. But, before you establish your 3-point line, you’ll want to submit a property improvement request to ensure that your basketball goal meets your community’s requirements.
For this request, you will need to provide the following information:
- A photo or brochure of the goal with specifications of height, background material, and color
- Whether or not the goal is permanent or temporary/removable
- If the goal will be placed in a permanent location
- A plat map (TX) or Topdown Diagram (AZ) that has the location of the improvement(s) marked to include the distances from the fencing, property lines, or other structures/buildings. Click here for an example of a plat map and click here for an example of a Topdown Diagram.
* Total file upload amount should not exceed 15 MB.
While we try and gather all needed information in one go, we may need to contact you for clarification or more detail during the review process. Some HOAs also require review fees (which you can now pay online), deposits, or other forms to be collected. If so, we’ll reach out ASAP!
Your request will be processed and loaded into your homeowner account within three (3) business days of submitting your request. We will contact you via your submission email to confirm the request has been sent for committee review and provide a timeline for committee decision. From there, it is super easy to check the status of your request online or on the SpectrumApp!