Patio with awning and new doors.

Making Modifications to Your Unit

In order to protect the value, livability, and physical integrity of Society Hill, formal approval is required before making a broad range of exterior and structural modifications to your unit. These are spelled out in more detail in the Architectural Control Regulations and other documents, but generally, if you wish to replace or change anything that shows on the outside, or affects the interior structure or common areas, prior approval is required. Further, many actions related to physical structure are covered by these regulations.

NOTICE: Failure to observe the regulations regarding these matters may subject you to fine, orders to remove, or other legal actions. When in doubt about virtually anything that may affect the Association's Common Elements, ASK FIRST!

Some of these things include replacing windows and doors, adding storm doors, placing things on or near doors or other exterior places, attic fans, awnings, patio improvements, landscaping, satellite dishes, wall changes, and the like. To assist you, forms and information are available here; some forms may be submitted online.

General Modification Request Form

Window Replacement

A Modification Request Form is required for ALL proposed modifications. For simple ones like minor landscaping, this is the only form required, and these are routinely handled. (Contact the Office ahead of time for advice on acceptable design and materials.) For other more complex requests, there are additional information and form packages available below; if there is a specific rule and form for a requested action THAT form must be submitted, not the general one.

The General Modification Request Form is available here in two optional formats:

• An online web form that you can fill out and submit with the stroke of a button, even attaching explanatory documents like Word documents, scans, or sketches that you have in electronic form on your computer.
• The same form in PDF format which you can download and print out, and either bring or mail to the Association office.

Patio with Treated Wood Border

Special Modification Request Packages

Because of their complexity or special legal considerations, certain requests require additional documentation or paperwork. For these, we provide special packages which should be read, and various forms, signatures or payments are mailed or brought to the Association office. These packages include a specific Modification Request Form, which is also required. The General Modification Form should not be used for these.

These packages also include regulations that are applicable regarding things you can and can not do, regardless of any modification process. They thus provide guidance regarding your responsibilities on the specified subject areas.

NOTE: Any modifications that require filing with the County Clerk: the fee has been increased by law to $43.

Attic Fans. This package provides all required information and forms.

Awnings. This patio awning package explains what is allowed, approved vendors, and special forms and requirements.

Doors, Windows, and Related Uses and Installations.
Doors - Windows - Storm Doors - Exterior Closet Doors - Doorbells – Address Numbers - Signs – Hardware – Maintenance Responsibilities - Other Related Things
This package covers in detail a wide variety of actions related to doors, windows, and things you might consider placing or showing on or near them, as covered by Association regulation and for which specific prior written approval must be sought. It also prescribes absolute rules and limits regarding what you can and can not do on or around these features, which are not subject to the granting of approvals.  Review this package closely and use the included form.

High Efficiency Heating and Air Conditioning Systems Impacting on Common Elements. If you are contemplating replacing old equipment with a new system that requires venting or other piping that is different than the original, or which may affect building structure, outdoor appearance, etc., review this package carefully. Newer systems require special installation.

Patio Extensions for Garden Homes, Patio Installations for Town Homes, Enhancements of Certain Town Home Recessed Patio Areas, Use and Maintenance of Patios and Balconies.
Installing, Modifying, Using, Maintaining Patios and Balconies – Procedures for Seeking Approval -- Related Rules
This package explains the requirements and provides the forms. Note that this regulation prescribes limitations and regulations regarding what you can or can not do on or related to these features, or on common or limited common areas.

Satellite Dishes. This package should be closely reviewed. The process varies somewhat from the others, reflecting certain Federal regulations.