If you live in a homeowners’ association-run community, also known as an HOA, it can be challenging to work out the details of your roofing repairs.

HOAs notoriously nit-pick when it comes to overall renovation projects, and can stipulate strict rules that go beyond local building codes. Noise, views, and fence building, among other issues, may all fall under the jurisdiction of HOAs.

Luckily, at Elite Remodeling Services, our roofing experts have the experience to understand HOA restrictions and handle almost any HOA dispute.

Here, we provide some essential tips on how to deal with your HOA roof replacement to avoid unnecessary conflict and misunderstandings.

Get prior written approvals – HOA requirements and covenants

If you live within an HOA development, any remodeling, renovation, change of the exterior facade or roof replacement requires prior written approval.

Some developments take a relaxed approach to the enforcement of the rules, but many HOAs work hard to enforce the letter of the by-laws that homeowners have agreed to follow.

When seeking approval for roof replacement, you must:

• Understand the forms to fill out
• Read and re-read all the covenants that apply to your home’s roof
• Be patient with the HOA approval process
• Plan properly; keep your roofer updated constantly
• Politely ask your HOA questions if any steps or answers are not clear
• Be patient; follow up with your HOA promptly, but don’t nag them.

Adhere to approved roofing styles and colors

Many HOA covenants specify a specific roofing style and color. HOAs enforce this rule to maintain a uniform appearance to homes within a development, to protect property values.

As you discuss your HOA roof repair or replacement with your roofing contractor, ensure that you cover the following aspects in detail to pick the best roofing option for your home:

• Underlayment—common types include rubberized asphalt, asphalt-saturated felt, or non-bitumen synthetic
• Decking materials—common choices include concrete, wood, or steel
• Radiant barriers—should be invisible from the outside
• Ice shielding—to prevent ice from damming in gutters
• Architectural or dimensional shingles—these choices account for increased visual appeal and durability, and examples include deeper cut or dramatic accent shingles

Keep the communication lines with your HOA board open

HOA terms regulate the community’s roof color and roofing style in a bid to protect property values within the development. Ensure that you present your case before the HOA board and offer solutions that suit everyone.

For instance, you can request the board to allow a cheaper but presentable renovation, if you cannot afford the option currently on the table.

Get an expert’s opinion

One of the first steps in an HOA roof repair should be to ask a reputable roofing contractor, such as Elite Remodeling Services, to inspect your roof and submit a detailed report.

Contractors tend to follow HOA recommendations if the repair is small. However, more extensive repairs such as an entire roof replacement may cost you more without the professional opinion of a residential roofing contractor.

Their advice can save you thousands in non-essential or unnecessary roof repairs.

Seek legal advice

If you cannot understand the HOA’s recommendations or feel your property does not need the roof repair, an attorney can help you understand the various legal aspects available to you. Seek their advice to avoid legal disputes down the line.

Some HOAs enforce by-laws selectively, while others are incredibly strict. Avoid possible legal consequences by working with a roofing expert who understands the requirements for HOA roof replacement.

Contact Elite Remodeling Services today at (904) 657-8383 for excellent advice on HOA roof repair or replacement and any other general roofing needs.