ESTABLISHING Architectural Standards

Because associations are responsible for the common areas and because CC&Rs generally prohibit alterations to the common areas without prior approval of the board of directors or an architectural committee, boards should adopt written architectural guidelines. They can be incorporated into the Rules and Regulations or be stand-alone Architectural Standards.

An association's architectural standards should include the following:

    1.  Standards. Condominiums and townhomes should establish acoustical standards for items such as hard surfaced flooring, higher standards for plumbing fixtures (brass angle stops, braided supply lines, etc.), submittal of plans for major remodels, etc. Planned developments should have written standards for paint colors, roofing materials, fencing, landscaping, etc.

    2.  Remodeling Agreement. Remodeling agreements are important for condominiums and planned developments alike. The agreement is signed by the owner and describes the scope of work, limits the owner to work approved by the board (or Architectural Review Committee), makes the owner responsible for damage to common areas, requires licensed and insured contractors, requires building permits, sets a deadline for completion of construction, contains and indemnity provision, etc.

    3.  Contractor Rules. Contractor rules (and fines against the owner for rules violations by his contractors) should include items such as restricting work on holidays (define which holidays), defining hours when work may occur, etc.

Membership 30-Day Review. A change in an association's architectural standards is considered an operating rule change that requires 30-days notice to the membership before it can be adopted. See Procedures for Adopting Rules

With the help of architects and acoustical consultants, our firm has developed architectural standards and remodeling agreements and procedures. If your board is interested in customizing a set for your association, contact us for more information.

Updated by ADAMS KESSLER 8/9/2008