ARC Requests

The Architectural Review Committee (ARC) process lets homeowners formally request approval before making modifications to their unit or property. This article explains what ARC requests are, how to submit one, and what happens after you do.

What is an ARC request and when do I need one?

An ARC request is a formal approval process for changes to your unit or property that may affect the HOA community. Common examples include:

• Installing a fence or gate
• Changing your exterior paint color
• Adding a structure (deck, shed, addition)
• Installing solar panels
• Major landscaping changes

Check your HOA's governing documents or ask the board if you are unsure whether your planned change requires ARC approval. When in doubt, submit a request before starting work.

How does the president set up ARC?

Before members can submit ARC requests, the president must complete the ARC setup wizard. To do this, go to ARC Requests → Admin and follow the wizard. The wizard configures:

• Which board members serve as ARC reviewers
• How many days reviewers have to reach a decision (the review deadline)
• Quorum — how many reviewer votes are required to decide a request
• Whether voters' identities are shown to the submitter or kept anonymous
• Auto-approve behavior (see below)
• The categories of modifications members can submit

If you do not see the ARC Requests section, ask the president to complete setup.

How to submit an ARC request

1. Go to ARC Requests and click New Request.
2. Select the modification category that best describes your project (Fence, Paint, Addition, Solar, Landscaping, etc.).
3. Fill out the form. Fields vary by category but typically include a description, dimensions, materials, and planned start date.
4. Attach supporting files — photos, drawings, or contractor plans help reviewers make a faster decision.
5. Click Submit. The board's ARC reviewers are notified by email.

Your request is assigned a number like ARC-0001 for tracking.

What happens after I submit?

Reviewers see your request in their ARC review queue. Each reviewer casts a vote: Approve, Deny, or Abstain. Once the required quorum of votes is reached (for example, 2 out of 3 reviewers), the majority decision is applied and you receive an email notification with the outcome.

You can check the current status at any time by returning to ARC Requests and selecting your request.

What if a reviewer asks for more information?

A reviewer may request a revision if they need additional details before voting. You will receive an email notification. Go to your request, provide the updated information or additional attachments, and resubmit. The request returns to the review queue.

What does "auto-approve" mean?

If the board has enabled auto-approve, a request that reaches its review deadline without a quorum decision is automatically approved. You receive an email when this happens. Not all HOAs enable this setting — ask your board if you are unsure whether it applies to your community.

How do I check the status of my request?

Go to ARC Requests. Your submitted requests are listed with their current status:

• Submitted — waiting for reviewers to vote
• Under Review — voting is in progress
• Pending Revision — a reviewer has asked for more information
• Approved — the request was approved
• Denied — the request was denied

Click any request to see its full activity history, including each status change and the date it occurred.

Can the president override a decision?

Yes. The president can manually override any request's status. All overrides are recorded in the request's activity history.

Who can see my ARC requests?

You can see only your own requests. ARC reviewers and other board members can see all requests submitted by any member.