This is the third of a three-part series in the Verandah View that describes how we work together to keep Verandah a special place to live. At the center of this effort is Verandah’s design review process. Part One of the series described what Verandah’s design review process is and why we have it. Part Two explained what our Design Review Guidelines are and how homeowners can learn more about them on our website. Part Three describes the steps of our design review process. These steps are intended to be simple and expeditious for the homeowner while allowing the Design Review Committee to confirm that proposed and completed improvements are consistent with the Declaration and design guidelines.
Design Review Process Summary:
STEP ONE
Homeowners that seek to make external improvements to their property are encouraged to call or email Trish Snook at the VCA to talk about what they are considering and to better understand the process. Homeowners can then submit a Design Modification Form with all supporting documentation e.g., architectural plans, sketches, material samples, color choices, photos of the area, a description of the project, and a timeline. This form can be emailed or left at the office for Trish’s attention. (Please know that if you live in one of Verandah’s condominiums or “sub-HOA” neighborhoods the form must first be approved by your neighborhood’s Board of Directors. These neighborhoods include Cottonwood Bend, Bramble Cove, Idlewild, Lakeview, Orange Tree Bend, Otter Bend, Palmetto Grove, Pebblebrook, Sabal Point, and Shady Bend.)
In addition to the Form there is a Quick Reference Guide that describes what is needed, an external color palette and nine project guidelines. These guidelines address external improvements, exterior equipment, gutters, lanai extensions, landscaping, pools, roofs, solar panels, and storm shutters.
STEP TWO
The completed Design Modification Form and attachments are reviewed by the Design Review Committee and VCA staff. The committee prepares agendas that are posted on the VCAlife.com and at the Dog Park kiosk. It meets every two-weeks. When external painting or roofing is proposed members do drive-bys to understand how these improvements will complement existing roofing, driveway, pavers, or other existing hard scape materials. The committee review is based on our Design Review Guidelines, and they may also consider how the changes impact neighbors (e.g., views, privacy, noise). Reviews often address:
• Architectural style: Ensuring proposed changes match the architectural theme of the community.
• Materials: Requiring materials to blend with existing structures (e.g., roof tiles, types of siding, external lighting, etc.).
• Landscaping: Confirming trees and plants on Verandah’s plant list, tree removal, landscape beds, etc.
• Views and privacy: Making sure structures do not obstruct views or infringe on neighbors’ privacy.
Based on the review, the committee may give preliminary approval, request modifications, or reject the application outright if it doesn’t comply with Guidelines. Once any requested changes are made and resubmitted, the Committee gives final approval, possibly with conditions. In 2024 the DRC received over 350 design modification forms.
STEP THREE
With approval in hand, a homeowner can make the approved modifications. The committee may monitor the project to ensure it adheres to the approved plans.
STEP FOUR
When the project is completed, the homeowner notifies the VCA and an inspection may occur to confirm the work complies with the requested work. The office then closes-out the application. If a homeowner bypasses the design review process or fails to follow approved plans, the Board may impose penalties or require the work to be altered to meet the Guidelines.
“Residents may see a possible violation on their street and call the office. I can make a site visit and alert the homeowner about any issues I uncover. I am so grateful that virtually every time the homeowner is positive and very quick to correct the problem.
