Many HOA Boards struggle with the issue of architectural standards and their enforcement. While virtually all Boards are empowered to control the look and feel of the buildings and grounds, the governing documents are often silent as to what that look should be. Staying with the status quo is easy, but getting locked into a dated look erodes the market value of the homes or units. Changing with the times helps retain the highest market values.

The Board's design oversight power must be exercised with prudence and restraint because the HOA is composed of different personalities which need personal expression. Standards the Board enforces should have a degree of flexibility whenever possible.

Design restrictions should be based on maintaining structural integrity and curb appeal. So, if a member proposes an exterior change that does no harm to the structure, can't be seen from the street and the immediate neighbors don't mind, it should pass muster. Avoid the hardline approach because it defies logic and makes the Board appear dictatorial.

For common architectural requests like storm/screen doors and privacy fences, standards should be approved that maintain high quality, attractive appearance and consistency. The standards should be of average cost so that the average member can afford them. Besides brand and model, a color standard is very important.

When the HOA controls exterior painting, color options should be reviewed every paint cycle since consumer tastes change. For this, use the free color consultant services offered by virtually every paint supplier. Not only can they provide a number of contemporary trim and body color options, they provide a contractor-quality inspection service if the HOA uses their paint to ensure proper application.

Roofing styles, quality and colors change as well. If your shingles are coming due for replacement, take advantage of product alternatives to increase fire safety, ease maintenance and reduce reserve fund needs. For applications like siding, fences and decks, there are a variety of synthetic or recycled material options that significantly reduce maintenance and cost. Vinyl siding reduces or eliminates painting, one of an HOA's biggest expenses. Vinyl fencing is an affordable and easy to maintain option. Recycled deck boards are easier to clean and don't rot. When using synthetic materials, choose color carefully since it will be around for 30-50 years.

When it comes to establishing architectural standards, it's best to let the members choose by poll or vote. This is a great way of including them in the process. The results needn't be unanimous but there should be a clear majority that favor a particular standard.

For older HOAs trying to establish standards after the "horse is out of the barn," the first order of business is to compile information about existing changes and violations by address. Use a camera and notepad to make a record of each modification. Write a description of each item, its condition, its location and overall attractiveness on a scale from 1 (Hideous) to 5 (Stunning). That exercise will give the Board the scope of changes and examples of what works and what doesn't. Sometimes, the best standards are right there in the community just waiting to be recognized.

Defining architectural standards is an important task. Once done, the look, feel and value of the property will be significantly enhanced. The Board should identify those things that members are most likely to want some customization on and figure out how they can have them without causing harm to home values.

Remember:

HOA standards make sense
Aside from the dollars and cents
Awnings and fences
Should not give offenses
But have a judicious pretense