Homeowner’s Association (HOA) Roofing Guidelines (What You Need to Know)
Moving into a new neighborhood can be stressful – especially when you throw a homeowner’s association into the mix.
When you want to upgrade your home, you have to go through them first. But what rules and restrictions do you have to follow, and what happens if you don’t?
If you are unsure about the process, Rescue My Roof is here to help. We’ve spent over a decade in Southeastern Wisconsin guiding homeowners through the HOA process. Today, we will give you the tips and tricks necessary to avoid any extra trouble.
In this article, you will learn the critical elements of a homeowner’s association and how to navigate them. In the end, you will know exactly what to do to get through your roof replacement without any trouble.
What is a Homeowner’s Association?
Many residential communities across the country have a homeowners association or HOA to help maintain the neighborhood’s clean and cohesive look.
While HOA’s can come with benefits like access to amenities and support, they often come with regulations.
This impact’s any home improvement process because when you alter the exterior of your home (like buying a new roof), there may be cosmetic limitations.
They often impose regulations for the color and style of the shingles and gutters you can choose from.
If you live in an area with an HOA, the best way to determine the types of products you can use is to contact them and ask them for a guide.
Does Following HOA Guidelines Cost More?
Typically the answer is no; it will not cost more to follow HOA guidelines.
Because many HOA’s only limit the color of shingle you can buy, it will be the same price as any other color in that style.
However, if a, HOA has regulations about the shingle style – for example, requiring a luxury shingle over a 3-tab shingle – that may add more to the overall price.
Things You Must Do With a Homeowner’s Association
One of the easiest things a homeowner can forget to do is request approval from an HOA before starting their roof installation.
Before the installation begins, you must submit a proposal to your HOA and get approval for the color and style of the roofing materials. This proposal traditionally includes the contract and samples of the roofing materials.
If you forego this, HOA’s can impose fines that will add to the overall cost of your roof.
To avoid additional financial strain, contact your HOA and go through the approval process first.
What Happens If You Don’t Get HOA Approval?
If you don’t get approval and go ahead with the project, you may be subject to additional fines.
If you do submit a proposal and it’s rejected, you should look over their guidelines and meet again with your roofing contractor to discuss additional shingle color or style options.
From there, you will have to go through the approval process again. While this definitely adds to the project timeline and may affect when you can schedule your roof installation, it’s essential to avoid additional fees.
Why Do HOA’s Have These Guidelines?
Sometimes the HOA’s reasoning for picking certain styles or colors goes beyond aesthetics.
Certain roofing materials carry different benefits. For example, clay and slate shingles are fire-resistant. So if you live in an area prone to wildfires, an HOA may require those roofing materials to ensure the community’s safety.
Additionally, some rules are created to ensure the value of the community stays above a specific price point. It protects the value of other people’s homes and your own by enforcing that certain products be used.
While it may come at a financial cost for the homeowner, HOA’s exist to protect their communities’ integrity, value, and safety.
Working With a Roofing Contractor and Homeowner’s Association
Do you live in an area with an HOA and want to make sure the roofing process is as painless as possible?
The first step is to look over the HOA guidelines for exterior modifications to your home. It will give you an idea of whether or not you can use certain products.
The second step is to work with a roofing contractor to determine the best shingles for your home. Roofing experts will look at the guidelines and work within those confines to meet the needs of the HOA and your expectations and dreams for what you want your roof to be.
The third step is to submit the contract and samples for approval. If you don’t get approved, you will have to do this process again until the HOA accepts the contract.
After these steps are completed, your roof installation can begin!
Want to get started finding the right contractor for you? Read “9 Questions You Should Ask Before Hiring a Roofing Contractor” to find out more.
If you’re ready to dive right in, Rescue My Roof is ready. We serve the greater Milwaukee area for any asphalt and flat roof repairs and replacements.
You can contact us today to schedule your free, fast, and honest roof evaluation.