If you live in a neighborhood governed by a Homeowners' Association (HOA), you know that any exterior addition to your property, including a storage shed, requires careful planning. HOAs exist to maintain a cohesive aesthetic and protect property values, which means they often have specific rules about the size, style, and placement of outbuildings. Navigating these requirements is a crucial step in the purchasing process.
Working with your HOA doesn't have to be difficult. With a proactive approach and clear communication, you can ensure a smooth approval process for your new Action Building. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to get your project approved without any hassle.
1. Understand Your HOA's Guidelines Before You Buy
The most important step happens before you even finalize your shed purchase. Doing your homework upfront prevents you from buying a building that you won't be allowed to install.
- Request the Covenants and Bylaws: Your first action should be to obtain a copy of your HOA’s governing documents. Look for sections related to "accessory buildings," "outbuildings," or "exterior structures." This document is your rulebook.
- Identify Specific Restrictions: Pay close attention to details. HOAs often regulate:
- Size: There may be a maximum square footage or height limit.
- Materials and Color: The siding and roof color of your shed may need to match your home’s color scheme.
- Placement: Rules will dictate how far your shed must be from property lines, fences, and your house (setbacks).
- Foundation: Some HOAs may have requirements for the type of foundation used.
- Visibility: You may be required to place the shed in a location where it is not visible from the street.
2. Prepare and Submit a Formal Application
Once you understand the rules, you can prepare your application for the HOA’s architectural review committee or board. A thorough and professional submission makes the approval process much faster.
- Gather All Necessary Documents: Your application package will typically need to include:
- A Site Plan: Create a clear drawing of your property. Show the location of your house, property lines, and precisely where you plan to install the shed. Mark the distances from the shed to all relevant boundaries to prove you are meeting setback requirements.
- Building Specifications: Action Buildings can provide you with detailed information about your chosen shed, including its dimensions, materials, and a color sample. Including these official specifications shows the committee exactly what you are proposing.
- Fill Out the Application Completely: Answer every question on the HOA’s application form. An incomplete form is the most common reason for delays. If you are unsure about something, ask a member of the HOA board for clarification.
3. Communicate Proactively and Professionally
Your relationship with the HOA is key. Treat the process as a partnership, not a battle.
- Submit Your Plans Early: Don't wait until the week before your shed is scheduled for delivery. Most HOAs meet only once a month, so give them plenty of time—at least 30 to 60 days—to review and approve your request.
- Be Prepared to Be Flexible: In some cases, the HOA may approve your request with minor conditions. For example, they might ask you to choose a different color or shift the location by a few feet. Being open to reasonable adjustments will help move the process forward.
- Get Approval in Writing: Once your application is approved, make sure you receive a formal, written confirmation. Do not allow your shed to be delivered until you have this document in hand. This written approval is your proof that you have followed the correct procedure.
By following these steps, you demonstrate respect for your community's guidelines and set yourself up for a stress-free experience. Properly navigating your HOA's requirements ensures that your new building will not only meet your storage needs but will also be a welcome addition to your neighborhood for years to come. Questions about specific sheds? We’re here to help!