March 2016
Page 7
From Chris Scovil, Covenant Enforcement Officer
A modifications approval process is common in most HOAs in order
to retain uniformity in the neighborhood, by preventing things like a
forty-foot high radio antenna that blocks the views of neighbors or the
jolt of a bright purple house swimming in a sea of beige and brown.
I’ve lived here for 25 years and never needed permission.
Why now?
Approval of modifications has been a requirement
dating back to the 1960s when Windsor
Gardens was formed. The process helps us to
prevent hazards, reduce noise and other issues
between units, and keeps the consistency of our
neighborhood intact.
Why do I need a modification permit?
A permit shows that after a review of your
plans and supporting documentation you have
received permission from the Association for
your modification project. The approval for
modifications is a requirement of our Declaration
(Article 5, Sections 5.7 and 5.8), and is
implemented through the permit process detailed
in the Modifications to Structures Policy. In some
instances, an approved permit protects the homeowner from future
inquiries regarding a unit modification.
How long does the permit process take? I need to start
tomorrow.
There were 337 remodeling permit requests last year, and this year we
are on pace for over 360. Under the Declaration, the Association has
up to 30 days to respond to a permit request. However, the process
takes approximately three to five business days if the application is
filled out in its entirety and includes all the supporting documentation.
Occasionally, depending on the scope of the modification and where
you fall in the queue of requests, the turnaround time from submittal to
approval may be quicker.
Where can I find the request forms?
The modification request packet can be found
online at
and in
the Administration Office.
What happens if I decide to do the work
without approval?
Remodeling work without a permit is a covenant
violation and a stop work order is issued. If work
continues, fines are implemented and in some
instances, assistance from the Association’s
attorney is requested to prevent the rogue
remodeler from continuing. The violation is
recorded in our database and may affect the
future sale of your unit if it’s not corrected. It’s
easier to ask for permission first, and not beg for
forgiveness later.
What else do I need?
A little patience and a smile. Good luck on your project!
POLICY PLATFORM
Unit Modifications Permit
