In some neighborhoods, having an HOA is part of the cost that comes with your dream home. HOAs can be helpful in that they give you support as a homeowner, but they can also be quite restricting. Especially when it comes to remodeling, Homeowners Associations can be sticklers. Many homeowners have begun roofing projects ignorant of the consequences, only to find themselves in conflict with their HOA. Fortunately, the prickly issue can be navigated if you know the steps to take.
Run It By Your HOA First
Replacement roofs are not a project for which it helps to “act first, ask forgiveness later.” Often, scheduling roofing work without checking your HOA first will only lead to more conflict. That’s why it’s important to first check your HOA’s rules when it comes to roofing work. Once you’ve reviewed their standards, get approval from your HOA before scheduling your roofing work with a contractor.
Fill Out All the Proper Forms (and Save Them)
Chances are, getting approval for your roofing project will mean filling out many forms. This can be tedious, but it’s necessary in order to not get in trouble with your HOA over your roofing project. It might help to hire legal representation to go over all the forms and make sure they’re fair before you sign them. Once you’ve signed them, take pictures of the documents or scan or copy them for your own records. That way if the HOA loses your paperwork or tries to claim that you didn’t go through the proper channels, you have proof that you did.
Does Your HOA Cover the Cost Of Your New Roof?
As any homeowner in a Homeowners Association knows, HOAs charge a monthly fee. While this can be a pain when the statement comes in, it essentially works like insurance. That monthly fee allows the HOA to be able to cover costs to help maintain the community of homes and homeowners. The maintenance that the HOA will cover can vary, but often includes roof repair and roof replacement. Make sure you check your HOA guidelines before assuming that they will cover the cost of the roofing work, however.
Montgomery Winslow has been serving the community for over 70 years, and we’ve worked with HOAs many times in our experience. We’re happy to answer any questions you might have and to work with your HOA to get you the roof you need. Contact us today for more information or a free estimate.