Fencing Standards to Keep Your HOA Happy
If you live in a Home Owners Association neighborhood or planning to shift to one, you are subject to the HOA's rules regarding the appearance and maintenance of the locality, and fencing restrictions. HOA's goal is to maintain a neighborhood standard that improves people's quality of life and keeps the value of property high.
Fencing plays an essential role in contributing to the aesthetics, security, and comfort of a home. Fences are the visible parts of a property, affecting the overall look of the neighborhood. Therefore, the HOA's have detailed and strict rules about what you can and can't do while adding a fence or deck to your home. It is essential to read the HOA's guidelines before installing a fence or replacing an old one to make sure your new fence meets the standards. Their rules vary from community to community- some are common to all, while others have more specific directives. It takes about one week to two months to get an HOA approval for new fencing.
When installing a new fence, it is crucial to keep these general HOA-friendly fencing standards in mind:
Uniformity and style
HOA may require properties to fall in line with a certain aesthetic style. Some HOA's allow only a particular type of fencing like chain link, wood, split, or containment fences. This is done to give the neighborhood a consistent look. Therefore, it is essential to understand your neighborhood's guidelines to avoid replacing or altering the standard with your brand-new fence.
Height requirement
The rules on height are frequently regulated and vary for front and backyards. They are mostly based on visibility issues. Generally, the fence height is restricted to six feet in the backyard, and three to four feet in the front yard.
View and visibility
Some communities are located in areas with scenic beauty, while others invest in landscaping. In such situations, the placement of your fence should not interfere or obstruct your neighbors' view of the landscape. Hence, there may be restrictions regarding the location, type, style, and height of the fence. Also, your fence should remain within your property lines and not stretch on to your neighbor's yard or onto public property.
Natural factors
Some areas are storm and wind prone, and high winds can turn fences into dangerous objects, causing severe damage to vehicles and nearby structures. Therefore, many HOA's prohibit the installation of fencing with materials like wood that is not wind resistant.
Maintenance
All the fences that you install will have to be maintained. They have to be safe and clean at all times. Make sure the fence is in working condition and free from causing any danger.
HOA has the authority to impose severe fines and penalties on the homeowners. When you reside in an area governed by HOA, it is essential to be informed about all the guidelines before finalizing your fencing plans. Also, get your project approved to avoid fines, disputes, and other problems. Working with a professional fencing contractor is advisable to ensure that not only is the job done professionally, but the standard outlined by the HOA is also followed.
If you're considering a fence or gate project in the Phoenix area, Sereno Fence builds custom fencing, fence repair, custom gates, gate repair, RV gates, horse corrals, pool fence, pool gates, custom welding, and wood fences. For more information call (602) 481-1298 today!
