does the hoa check on what actually gets done to the backyard/patio?

[villiagepeople]

just a question for all those that have bought new homes and had to have their backyard plans approved by the hoa... do they come by to check out if you followed your plans?  how exact must you follow what you "said" you would do?

 

[Irvinecommuter]

As with all HOA question, check you CC&Rs...usually the backyard is up to the owner but it depends on what you are putting in.  Things like pools, big trees, fountains, and fences may require pre-approval from the HOAs.  As for checking, it depends on the HOA.

 

[rimrattler6]

just a question for all those that have bought new homes and had to have their backyard plans approved by the hoa... do they come by to check out if you followed your plans?  how exact must you follow what you "said" you would do?

Most CC&R's require you to obtain approval. I wouldn't try to slide something as big as a pool by them. That's a big deal. They can assess fines. I'm on the Board for my HOA and we've had people try to put in hardwood floors on a second level above another residence, which is not allowed. Luckily, they asked for permission, we denied them and that was that. Had they tried to go around the board and the downstairs neighbor complained, we would have asked them to stop and if they didn't, would assess fines to their HOA account.

Best option is to check the CC&R's and go to the meetings. You'll be surprised at what they allow if you just be honest and communicate your intentions.

 

[jvna]

I believe they usually ask you to send in pictures of the completed back yard.  If they actually come by to verify that the picture is true, I'm not sure.

 

[samuroo]

Back when I was in NPark Square, my neighbor was cited (a warning) because the planting in his backyard didn't meet up with CC&R coverage guidelines.  This suggests that somebody did somehow actually peek into his backyard.

 

[sms-la]

jvna and rimrattler6 have it right: honesty and transparency.  I submitted photos of our completed yard and provided a list of changes we made that deviated from the approved plan set.  Nobody came out to verify if it was correct.  My improvement project was approved and my deposit returned within three weeks.  If you try and sneek stuff by the HOA, it'll bite you in the behind later.  Best of luck!!!