Importance of pre-approval - If you don’t ask for approval and your project breaks HOA rules, the board can force you to redo your work. They might also give you a fine. Avoid the extra expense and hassle. Make sure your project is compliant before anyone lifts a hammer of buys a $40 can of paint.

In general, you need board approval for renovations that involve:

Elements visible from the exterior of your home - these impact the look and feel of the HOA, so the board needs to sign off on these changes

Moving or adding plumbing or electrical services- the water line, sewage pipes and electrical line are communal, and your work could impact everyone else’s service.

Moving load-bearing walls - these walls are structural rather than merely decorative and could affect your neighbors if you live in a condo or townhome.

HOA Rules: A word about CC&Rs

These are general guidelines for every HOA, but make sure to check your HOA’s unique CC&Rs before beginning work.

What to do if your project needs HOA approval - (1. Submit your project forms to HOA, ask your board members for these forms as they vary by HOA) (2. Hire qualified contractors, if your basic plan is approved, it is time to hire professionals to carry out the work. HOAs often require that the people you hire have proper insurance and licensing to perform the work. Trustworthy contractors will need to read your CC&Rs, to make sure the project stays compliant) (3. Submit detailed project plans, if required. Some HOAs want to see the detailed plans, created by your contractor before work begins). Rules of legally binding