Any addition to your home is a worthwhile investment, but homes located in an HOA community may have more hoops to jump through to get a project approved. Navigating the approval process for a patio or sunroom build may seem daunting, but homes across the states can get HOA approval if they take the right steps. If you are dreaming of outdoor hangouts or a cozy sunroom reading space, here are some insights on how to successfully get approval for your project in an HOA community.
The HOA Approval Process
Every state and community will have a different HOA approval process. Understanding your specific architectural and measurement requirements for your area is the best way to ensure your project gets the green light. Many communities will only allow certain materials, have strict height and size requirements, and design requirements that ensure it matches your home.
The most common steps for getting a patio or sunroom approved by an HOA include:
- Filling out your city’s application for a home addition
- Professional architectural drawings
- Renderings of what the final product will look like
- Submitting color and material samples
- Obtaining a building permit
- Signed affidavits from neighbors informing them of noise and construction
Getting A Professional Sketch
A sketch of the proposed build is often essential for obtaining a building permit and getting HOA approval. One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is not paying for professional architectural plans for their patio or sunroom. Professional quality documentation is one of the best ways to get HOA approval for any project around or in your home.
Getting a professional architectural drawing will show detailed information, including site plans and exact dimensions. Architectural drawings are more detailed than hand-drawn sketches will ever be, which may put HOA boards at ease and show them that true professionals are completing the patio or sunroom build.
Materials That May Face HOA Challenges
One challenge of working with an HOA is that they have requirements about what materials can be used for home construction and home additions. If you have your heart set on one of these materials, you may want to consider choosing a different option to get your project approved quickly.
One of the materials that often gets blocked by HOA committees is brightly colored materials. This is because it often stands out from the home and the rest of the meticulously maintained community. Bright paint colors or extremely reflective materials will not be approved for a patio or sunroom.
Portable structures or temporary builds will also not be approved for these communities, because these temporary structures are not made of quality materials or crafted to match the exterior of your home. Builds of any kind will often need to have matching trim, colors, and materials to the home in order to keep the community looking cohesive.
Other unapproved materials include untreated or stained wood and aluminum without proper finishing.
Approved Materials
The best way to get your patio cover or sunroom project approved is to choose a material or materials that fit the specific requirements of your HOA. Some common materials that get approval include:
- Aluminum or Alumawood
- Vinyl or composite
- Insulated patio covers
- Acrylic
- Shingled roofs
An addition that is attached to the home must often match the materials of your home, including the roofing material and exterior siding. If finding matching materials is proving challenging, contact builders and contractors that completed work in your community. They may be able to provide insight on manufacturers or distributors that carry those products.
Tips To Help Convince Your HOA To Approve Your Project
Maintaining a positive relationship and keeping up communication with your HOA committee is the best way to get your project approved. Great communication and responding promptly to any information requests will help you build trust with the HOA and improve your chances of getting the build approved.
Taking a more collaborative approach when presenting a project to the community board is the best way to get approval. Show up for board meetings where your project is being discussed and be adaptable if the HOA requests you to change something.
Patio And Sunroom Installation From Our Professionals
Kool Breeze has been working with Utah homes and communities for years, handling different permits and HOA boards. Our patio covers and sunroom builds are made from durable materials that are often HOA-approved to help keep your home looking pristine and modern. Kool Breeze offers a number of coverings that can help you enjoy your backyard space, have a more energy-efficient home, and protect from intruders.
Since 1947, we have been crafting enclosed rooms, covers, and awnings that will last for generations. Our builders can create the perfect ambiance for outdoor gatherings or family time. See some of our thousands of successful projects and book your project today!
