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To submit an HOA Architectural Review Request through your Homestead homeowner portal, log in and select Requests, then New Request, followed by ARC Request. Enter your proposed project details, select your property, choose Exterior Changes, upload supporting documents, and click Submit Form after accepting the acknowledgement. Wait for the required approval before beginning your exterior improvement.
Planning to update your landscaping, extend your driveway, install a fence, or make another exterior improvement to your property?
Before beginning your project, your homeowners association may require you to submit an Architectural Review Request, often called an ARC Request.
You can submit an Architectural Review Request directly through your Homestead homeowner portal. Sign in, navigate to Requests, select ARC Request, complete the project information, upload supporting documents, and submit the form for processing. The steps below walk you through the process.
Hannah, Homestead Management's Virtual Assistant, walks you through the entire submission process, from opening the request form to uploading your documents and submitting your application.
Begin by signing in to your community's homeowner portal.
Once you're on the dashboard, select Requests from the menu on the left side of your screen.
On the Requests page, click the blue New Request button in the upper-right corner.
A window will appear with several request options.
Select ARC Request, which stands for Architectural Review Committee Request.
You'll see a window containing helpful information about your association's architectural review process.
To continue, click ARC Request at the bottom of the window or select the arrow icon on the right.
This opens the online application.
Now it's time to describe the improvements you're planning.
Complete the requested fields, including:
Be as specific as possible when describing the work.
For example, instead of entering only "New Fence," explain where the fence will be installed, its approximate height, materials, color, and other relevant details.
Helpful tip: The more clearly your application explains the proposed improvement, the easier it is for the reviewing committee to understand what you're requesting.
You may notice an Architectural Forms section within the online application.
You can disregard this section when submitting your request electronically.
If you prefer to complete a paper application, you can find the appropriate form in your association's Documents section under Forms.
Scroll down to the Attachments section.
This is where you'll upload photos and any supporting materials that help explain your project.
Depending on the improvement, useful attachments may include:
For example, if you're extending a driveway, photographs and a drawing showing the proposed dimensions can help the committee understand exactly what you're planning.
A detailed application is more useful than a lengthy one. Focus on providing the information that helps the committee evaluate your proposed project.
Once you've completed the application and uploaded your supporting documents, scroll to the bottom of the form.
Review the acknowledgement and check the box confirming your agreement.
Then click Submit Form.
Your Architectural Review Request will be submitted for processing.
You'll be notified of the next steps in the review process.
Submitting your request begins the architectural review process. It does not mean your project has been approved.
Your association's reviewing authority will evaluate the proposal according to the applicable community guidelines and review procedures.
Depending on your project, additional information or clarification may be requested.
Review requirements, decision timelines, and approval authority can vary by community. Consult your association's architectural guidelines for requirements that apply to your property.
Do not begin an exterior improvement that requires architectural approval until you've received the required authorization.
Even if your proposed improvement seems minor, it's important to confirm whether your association requires approval before making changes.
Log in to your Homestead homeowner portal, select Requests, click New Request, and choose ARC Request.
Include photos of the proposed work area and any drawings, dimensions, plans, material specifications, or other documents needed to explain your project. Your association may have additional requirements.
Not when using the online request process shown in this tutorial. You can disregard the Architectural Forms section when submitting electronically. If you prefer a paper application, check your association's Documents section under Forms.
No. Submitting an application does not constitute approval. Wait until you receive the required architectural authorization before beginning the improvement.
Review timelines depend on your association's governing documents, architectural guidelines, applicable requirements, and the nature of your project. Check your community's published procedures for the timeframe that applies to your request.
Access your community's homeowner portal, gather your project details and supporting documents, and follow the steps above.
Need help finding other features in your portal? Explore Homestead's Homeowner Portal Tutorials for additional step-by-step guides.
