Homeowners associations in El Paso County commonly control exterior choices: roofing material and color, siding type, stone accents, window trim, fencing and sometimes landscaping. After a fire, rebuilding exactly as before may seem like it shouldn't need anyone's approval, but most covenants require architectural review for any exterior work, including replacement in kind.
There is also a newer wrinkle. Some older covenants were written around wood shake roofs, wood fences and other materials that fire-resistant rebuilding now tries to avoid, while building code and insurers may push in a different direction. Sorting out those conflicts early can save weeks.
How HOA review fits into a rebuild
- During cleanup
- Request the current covenants, design guidelines and the architectural committee's submission form. Ask how often the committee meets.
- While plans are drawn
- Share the guidelines with your designer or contractor so plans meet them the first time. Flag any conflict with building code or your fire-resistance goals.
- Before the permit is final
- Submit the exterior plans, material samples and color choices to the HOA. Get approval in writing.
- During construction
- Keep the approval on site. Changes to materials or colors mid-build typically need another approval.
- At completion
- Some associations do a final inspection. Ask whether that's required before you schedule fencing and landscaping.
Questions for the architectural committee
- Is replacement with identical materials subject to full review or a shorter process?
- Will the committee approve a Class A fire-rated roof that differs from the original look?
- Are noncombustible fences, gates or ground cover near the house allowed?
- Can the committee expedite review for fire-damaged homes?
- What happens if a code requirement conflicts with a covenant?
- Are there rules on construction hours, dumpsters and portable toilets during the rebuild?
Common questions
- Does the HOA approval replace a building permit?
- No. HOA approval is a private covenant matter. Building permits for Colorado Springs and much of El Paso County go through the Pikes Peak Regional Building Department, and both are typically needed.
- Can an HOA require me to rebuild with the old materials?
- Covenants vary, and so does how they interact with building codes. If the HOA's rules conflict with code or with fire-resistant materials you want, ask the committee in writing and consider getting legal advice.
General information for Colorado Springs, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.