If you’re new to the neighborhood, you may be unfamiliar with covenants.
One of the many benefits of living in Columbia Town Center is the cohesive, uniform aesthetic of the neighborhood. To maintain this harmonic appearance, homeowners must follow specific rules about what changes they can and can not make to their home’s exterior. These rules are called covenants. If you’re new to the neighborhood, you may be unfamiliar with covenants. Fortunately, we have compiled some basic information about covenants in Columbia Town Center.
What is a Covenant?
The Covenants are legal documents that are part of your deed of ownership and transfer to future owners. These documents assure minimum standards for land use, architectural design, and property maintenance. The Covenants also allow for the operation of the Town Center Community Association, Town Center Architectural Committee, and the Architectural Review Process. You should have received these documents when you purchased your home or from your landlord. Similar covenants exist for the other Columbia villages.
Can I Make Changes to My Home?
Suppose you want to install a new deck, or there’s a tree in your yard that you want to cut down. Before breaking ground or starting construction, be sure to complete and submit the Town Center Community Association application before you begin your project. To ensure your application is reviewed as quickly as possible, please observe the following guidelines:
- Provide as much detail as possible about your project.
- Get signatures from 2 affected neighbors.
- Submit a site plan showing the location/configuration of the project.
- Submit a scale drawing of the project.
- Include color samples
- Include drawings or photos of the materials you are using.
- Sign and date the application; supply contact information, including email address.
- Attend the meeting at which your application will be reviewed to answer any questions the Architectural Committee may have.
Why Do We Have Architectural Guidelines?
The Town Center Architectural Committee establishes architectural changes and property maintenance criteria through Architectural Guidelines. These guidelines prevent excesses or abuses while allowing homeowners flexibility in their property use. The Guidelines will tell you what will most likely be approved and give you essential information on preparing your application.
What if I Don’t Get Approval?
Changing your home’s exterior before obtaining written approval is done at your own risk and puts your property in violation of the Covenants. You could face the cost of removing or modifying the alteration to comply with the committee’s decision.
Benefits of Covenants
Columbia Town Center’s covenants offer several benefits for homeowners and the community, such as:
- Protect Property Values: Covenants help maintain and enhance property values by establishing property use, design, and maintenance standards.
- Preserve Community Character: Covenants promote a cohesive and harmonious community aesthetic by setting architectural and design standards.
- Establish Consistency: Covenants provide clear guidelines and expectations for homeowners. This consistency enables a sense of stability within the community.
- Protect Against Undesirable Activities: Covenants can include restrictions on activities that may cause nuisances or negatively impact the quality of life for residents.
THRIVE AT COLUMBIA TOWN CENTER
Town Center is one of the ten villages of Columbia, Maryland. Our Village offices are located in Historic Oakland, one of the most beautiful historic buildings in Howard County. In the heart of Columbia, Town Center’s residents enjoy living in an urban community in a suburban setting with close proximity to all Columbia amenities, attractions, and cultural activities. Visit us to learn more about our community at 5430 Vantage Point Road, Columbia, MD 21044. Call us at 410-730-4744 or visit our website https://www.columbiatowncenter.org/