Exterior Modifications Guidelines
The Association has general guidance on exterior modifications for the community that homeowners should follow before completing their application. Below is a list of modifications and guidance that the Board provides for residents:
Attic Fan Installation
Installation of attic fans requires approval of the Board if the installation involves alterations to existing framework or roof of the unit. Contact the FirstService Residential for an Architectural Modification Form to apply for Board approval. The form requires the unit owner accept responsibility for liabilities which may result from the modification or alteration. In the event an adverse condition arises because of the modification, the unit owner must bear the expense of repair to the damaged area(s) and take immediate steps to remedy the source of the problem. When installing an attic fan, unit owners are encouraged to use a contractor who is licensed, bonded and insured.
Decks and Patios
Before installing a deck or patio on the limited common elements, a plan for the proposed improvement and a contractor's name must be presented to the Board for approval. Contact the FirstService Residential concerning procedures to apply for Board approval. It is the contractor's responsibility to ensure that utility lines are not damaged. Contact the FirstService Residential for the Architectural Modification Application, which requires the unit owner accept responsibility for liabilities which may result from the modification or alteration. In the event an adverse condition arises as a result of the alteration or improvement, the unit owner must bear the expense of repair to the damaged area(s) and take immediate steps to remedy the source of the problem. When having such work performed, unit owners are required to use a contractor who is licensed, bonded and insured.
Exterior Doors
Exterior doors may not be removed or modified. The color of the front exterior door may not be changed without approval from the Board. Colors approved by the Board are from the McCormick Paint Company and include:
- Old Colonial Red #225
- Farm House Red #217
- Foxhall Green #202
- Fairfax Brown #222
The door and tin roof on each house should be the same color. Doors that are not painted by the Association may be varnished or stained at the unit owner's expense. However, in such cases, the finish on the door is the responsibility of the unit owner and must be maintained.
Only full view storm doors may be installed over the front entry door and they must have white, black, or brown frames. Maintenance of storm doors is the responsibility of the unit owner.
Exterior Surfaces
Nothing may be attached to any exterior building surfaces. Drilling, nailing or puncturing of exterior surfaces in any way is prohibited. Installation of exhaust fans or vents penetrating exterior surfaces must have prior written permission of the Board.
Feeding Birds and Other Wildlife
Bird feeders, bird houses, bird baths and other statuary, are not permitted in the common or the limited common elements. Feeding wild animals such as squirrels, opossums and raccoons is prohibited.
Fences
Due to maintenance requirements, vines or other climbing foliage are not permitted on back yard fences. No structures may be attached to fences. Hanging tools and equipment on the exterior side of fences is prohibited.
Flags
Flag holders may be affixed to the wooden facing beside the front door. Flag staffs may not be affixed to any other exterior surfaces. Permanent flag poles are also prohibited. The U.S. flag may be flown on national holidays only. No other flags may be displayed.
Lighting
The front electric light outside the unit door may not be altered in any way. Outside lighting is the responsibility of the Association. The existing rear outside light may be replaced with another light, of similar style, as long as the light does not disturb neighbors or interfere with their privacy. Problems with wiring should be reported to FirstService Residential immediately.
Paint
All exterior paint colors are supplied by McCormick Paint Company. The trim of all units is painted Amber White, #101. In some cases the bottom or top of the columns are variegated using Woodspice #107 or Cypress #103. Painting of fences or brick is prohibited.
Porches and Steps
Carpeting is prohibited on front porches and steps. Plant containers are permitted on front and rear porches. However, containers may not obstruct pedestrian traffic in or out of the unit and plantings must be maintained with regular attention to watering so they do not become unsightly. Recycle bins, trash containers, toys, bicycles, cooking grills and lawn furniture may not be stored on the front porch.
Storage Sheds
Small storage sheds are permitted in the limited common elements but the height of the shed may not exceed the height of the fence or be attached to the fence. No structures of any kind may be constructed on the common elements. Please contact FirstService Residential before installation to obtain specific requirements.
Variances
Before you make any changes in or around the exterior of your unit, or changes in the interior that may affect the structural integrity of the building, written permission must be obtained from the Board. Contact FirstService Residential concerning procedures for applying for a variance. Examples of variances include installation of attic fans, construction of decks or patios, changing or modifying doors or windows, mailboxes, window flower boxes, etc.
Windows & Screens
Repair of window frames (except for green-house and bay windows) is the responsibility of the Association. Unit owners are responsible for the green-house and bay window frames and glass. Caulking around windows will be done by the Association. Repair and maintenance of window glass is the responsibility of the unit owner.
Window screens are the property (and the responsibility) of the unit owner.