By the Community Associations Institute of Illinois

Are you getting ready to make an addition to your house or build a new shed or fence in your backyard? Before you break out the miter saw, make sure to get your plans approved by your Association’s architectural committee.

While it may seem arbitrary from an individual homeowner’s standpoint, the architectural committee looks out for the entire community. Aside from stopping residents from painting pink polka dots on their houses, the committee’s job is to make sure that the size and style of the project, the type of building materials being used and the overall look of the new structure adhere to the Association’s design requirements. Not only does this keep the community looking cohesive, it also helps to keep property values up by preventing individual structures from standing out. Of course, it’s also important to note that unapproved structures might legally have to be removed at the owner’s expense, so save yourself money and headaches by getting approval before building.

When you’re ready to start your new project, or if the design of your project changes midway through building it, send your plans to your Association or co-op’s architectural committee first so they can make sure you are in compliance with the Association’s design standards. If there are objections or concerns, the committee will let you know what they are and try to help you come up with other options. Residents do a lot of great hard work in order to keep their homes and community beautiful and it is much appreciated. Help keep your Association looking great by keeping them in the loop of all your building projects.