In many HOA and condo communities, homeowners must receive approval before making certain exterior changes to their property. This approval process is commonly called an architectural request, ACC request, or ARC request.
ACC typically stands for Architectural Control Committee, while ARC usually means Architectural Review Committee. Regardless of the name, the purpose is the same: to help ensure proposed changes comply with the association’s governing documents, architectural guidelines, and community standards.
Why Architectural Requests Matter
Architectural review exists to protect the look, feel, consistency, and long-term value of the community.
Community associations are also expected to apply rules consistently. The Community Associations Institute recommends that associations uniformly enforce all rules, including architectural guidelines.
What Types of Projects Usually Require ACC/ARC Approval?
Requirements vary by community, but architectural approval is commonly needed for projects that change the exterior appearance of a home or lot, such as:
- Exterior paint colors
- Fences, gates, or walls
- Roof replacements
- Patios, decks, pergolas, or sheds
- Landscaping changes
- Driveway or walkway changes
- Solar panels or satellite dishes
- Windows, shutters, doors, or visible window treatments
- Pools, spas, or outdoor structures
- Additions or structural modifications
Some condominium communities may also review interior work if it affects common elements, plumbing, electrical systems, flooring, balconies, patios, or exterior visibility. .
Before You Submit: Review Your Governing Documents
Before starting any project, review your association’s:
- CC&Rs
- Architectural guidelines
- Rules and regulations
- Design standards
- Application form
- Community-specific submission instructions
What to Include in an Architectural Request
A complete ACC/ARC request usually includes:
- Homeowner name and property address
- Description of the project
- Contractor information, if applicable
- Site plan or property survey
- Drawings, renderings, or photos
- Dimensions and materials
- Paint or material samples
- Color names and manufacturer details
- Timeline for work
- Permit information, if required
- Neighbor acknowledgment, if your association requires it
Submitting a complete package helps prevent delays. Incomplete applications are one of the most common reasons architectural reviews take longer than expected.
How to Submit an ACC/ARC Request
The exact process depends on your association, but most homeowners should follow these steps:
- Confirm whether approval is required.
When in doubt, ask before starting work. - Review the architectural guidelines.
Make sure your project meets your community’s standards. - Gather all required documents.
Include drawings, photos, samples, contractor details, and any other requested information. - Submit through the approved channel.
This may be an online portal, email, management office, or paper form. . - Wait for written approval before beginning.
RealManage advises homeowners not to start work before receiving written approval from the association. - Keep your approval letter.
Save the written decision with your home records. - Complete the work as approved.
Changes from the approved plan may require a new or revised submission.
How Long Does Approval Take?
Review timelines vary by association and state law. Most of the time, committees have up to 30-days to review. Many states have specific requirements around architectural review procedures ensuring they are fair, reasonable, and timely.
Because timelines differ, homeowners should submit requests well before hiring contractors, ordering materials, or scheduling work.
What Happens If You Start Without Approval?
Starting work without approval may result in:
- Violation notices
- Fines
- Stop-work requests
- Required modifications
- Removal of unapproved improvements
- Legal or compliance costs
Even if the finished project looks attractive, the issue is whether it was approved and whether it complies with the governing documents.
What If Your Request Is Denied?
If your request is denied, carefully review the written explanation. A denial may occur because the project conflicts with community standards, lacks required information, violates setback rules, uses prohibited materials, or creates maintenance or drainage concerns.
Many associations allow homeowners to revise and resubmit. Some also provide an appeal process.
Tips for a Smoother ACC/ARC Approval
To improve your chances of a smooth review:
- Read the guidelines before designing the project.
- Submit clear, complete documentation.
- Use specific materials, colors, and dimensions.
- Do not assume a neighbor’s approval means HOA approval.
- Do not rely on verbal approval.
- Keep copies of everything submitted and approved.
- Build exactly what was approved.
- Ask questions early.
Architectural Requests Protect More Than Appearance
A strong architectural review process helps communities maintain consistency, reduce conflict, protect property values, and create a fair process for homeowners. When handled well, it is not just about enforcing rules, it is about preserving the shared investment every homeowner has in the community.
RealManage Can Help
Ready to simplify architectural reviews and strengthen your community’s operations? Contact RealManage today to learn how our community management solutions can support your board, homeowners, and long-term property values.
Join Over 950,000 Homes Enjoying the RealManage Advantage
Spend less time managing your community & more time enjoying it!
