Many condominiums and HOA communities require written approval before remodeling starts, and the rules differ from building to building. This checklist covers what to ask your association or management office. Always follow your own association's written rules.
1. Ask the association what it requires
- Is a written application or architectural approval required, and how long does review usually take?
- Is there a fee or a deposit, and is it refundable?
- Do they need drawings, a scope of work or a list of materials?
- Which changes are restricted, for example flooring underlayment, plumbing or electrical changes, or moving walls?
2. Work hours and building access
- Which days and hours is noisy work allowed?
- Is there a freight elevator, loading area or reserved parking for contractors and deliveries?
- How far ahead must deliveries and elevator use be scheduled?
- Are there rules for hauling debris and protecting common areas?
3. Paperwork the building may ask for
- Any documents the association requires from a contractor working in the building.
- The names of the people who will be on site.
- Any permit documents the association or city requires for your scope.
Ask the association exactly what it needs from a contractor, and bring that list to every remodeler you talk to.
4. Permits and the city
Permit requirements depend on the scope of work and your city or building department. Confirm with them what your project needs, and ask each remodeler to note in the written proposal who is responsible for permits.
5. Build the schedule around approvals
Approval time can add weeks before work starts. Place cabinet and appliance orders with that timing in mind, and ask about lead times. See the timeline guide and the planning checklist.
6. Plan for neighbors
Tell neighbors about the schedule, protect shared hallways, and agree on a daily cleanup routine.
Planning a condo or HOA kitchen? Request an estimate and tell us your building, so we can plan around its rules.