Defined term
Architectural review
Architectural review is the process by which an HOA or master association approves or denies owner changes to the exterior of a property — buildings, fences, landscaping, signs, paint colors.
Architectural review is governed by the covenants and the board's adopted standards. The recurring dispute: owner-applicant submits a design that the board denies on "compatibility" or "aesthetic" grounds; the owner cites the governing-document text; the case turns on whether the board's discretion is bounded by published standards.
Florida (Chapter 720) and Alabama (HOA Act) both impose procedural requirements: written standards, defined response times, written denials with reasons, and appeal rights. Failure to follow procedure invalidates the denial. For boards, published standards + documented application of them is the defense. For owners, a clear compliance argument and a documented application is the offense.
Statutes
- Fla. Stat. § 720.3035