What Is an HOA Architectural Control Committee?

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If you want to build a deck, install a fence, or otherwise redesign part of your home’s exterior, you’ll need approval from your Aurora community association. It’s an aspect of HOA homeownership that many find inconvenient, but it’s necessary to preserve property values throughout the neighborhood. When it comes to approving construction projects like these, the HOA’s Architectural Control Committee, or ACC, is the party that has the final say in whether you can move ahead with your renovations. What exactly is an ACC? In this blog, we’ll break it down.

What Is an Architectural Control Committee?

The Architectural Control Committee is a group of volunteers appointed by the HOA board to oversee and approve external modifications that owners want to make to their homes. The ACC reviews all proposed modifications and ensures that they fall in line with the community association’s architectural guidelines as set out in the association’s governing documents. 

What Does an Architectural Control Committee Do?

Homeowners seeking to change their home’s exterior will need to fill out an application detailing the modifications they plan to make. They’ll usually need to provide detailed construction plans and a list of materials prior to any work beginning. The ACC then has a set amount of time, as outlined in the community’s bylaws, to review the plans and provide a decision. They’ll assess whether the plans are in total compliance with the HOA’s guidelines for things such as material requirements, height restrictions, and setback guidelines. If they don’t approve the project, it can be amended so that it meets the HOA guidelines before being re-submitted for new approval.

What if I Don’t Get ACC Approval?

Impatience can get the better of homeowners, even if the ACC is limited to a certain turnaround time. However, you should never start a project without the ACC’s approval. If you start the project without approval and any aspect of your construction does not meet the community association’s guidelines, you could be forced to not only stop work but also reverse any work that has been done. In addition to this costly effort, you can also be fined for violating community guidelines. To avoid these serious and expensive consequences, it’s always best to wait for ACC approval before moving forward with any changes to your property.

If you want to streamline the architectural review process and generally make life easier for your residents and board members, consider an HOA community management firm such as The Management Trust. Our HOA management solutions cover every aspect of community association living to ensure that your community is a happier place to live. For more information about community association management services for the Aurora, Colorado, area, give The Management Trust a call today at (303) 750-0994 or fill out our online contact form. We serve more than 1,500 communities nationwide and have been an industry leader for more than 30 years.