I.      Any alteration to the structure of the unit, including, but not limited to, the alteration of load bearing walls, supporting beams, roof or foundations, is prohibited without the express written authorization of the Board.  Some structural changes will be allowed on an individual basis when the plans are submitted on an Architectural Control Form.  (Contact Management for form). 

           II.      Any changes to the exterior of the unit or structures adjacent to the unit require an approved Architectural Control Improvement Form.  These changes include, but are not limited to, decks, patios, storm doors and windows, main doors, garage doors, antennas, satellite dishes, permanent gas grills, lighting, including landscape lighting, privacy fences and gutters. 

        III.      Approved Architectural Control Forms are good for 6 months after the Board approval date.  If the improvement date is not completed within those six months, a new form must be submitted. 

         IV.      After the improvement is completed, the homeowner must resubmit the form to get final Board approval within 30 days of completion.  The Board may fine the homeowner up to $50 for failure to resubmit the application for final approval.  The Board may not approve a completed improvement for the following reasons: 

A.     Improvement is different from submitted plans
B.      Incorrect material were used
C.     Poor workmanship was used 

           V.      The homeowner will have 30 days to make any Board required corrections to the improvement.  If the corrections are not made correctly, the Board may, at its discretion, either give the homeowner another opportunity to make correction(s), or hire a contractor to either correct the improvement or restore to original.  All costs will be charged back to the homeowner. 

         VI.      Homeowners may maintain, repair or replace improvements without submitting an additional Architectural Control Improvement Form so long as the work done does not change the improvement as specified in the original application. 

      VII.      The Board will periodically inspect homeowner improvements.  The Board may either require homeowners to make any necessary repairs or hire a contractor to make repairs.  If the improvement is in disrepair, the Board can also have the improvement removed and the area restores to its’ original condition.  Removal costs will be charged back to the homeowner. 

    VIII.      Should architectural changes be made to a unit without the Board’s written authorization, the Board may restore the area to its’ original condition.  All costs of such restoration shall be charged back to the unit owner.  In addition, at the discretion of the Board, a fine of not less than $100, but not to exceed 150% of the restoration costs, may be levied against the unit owner. 

         IX.      The Village of Palatine requires Building Permits for many types of improvements.  Homeowners are responsible for acquiring Building Permits before starting any improvements.  An Architectural Control Improvement Form does not change any Village of Palatine requirements.  The Architectural Control Improvement Form must be approved by the Board prior to obtaining the Building Permit.