HOA and permits, 6 min read
HOA approval for a re-roof in the East Valley
Many neighborhoods in Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, Queen Creek and San Tan Valley have homeowners associations with rules about how roofs look. Getting approval before work starts keeps your project on track.
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The short answer
Most HOAs require architectural review approval before you replace a roof or change its color, tile profile or material. You typically send the HOA's request with the product name, color, profile and a sample or photo, then wait for a written approval before work starts. Rules and timelines differ by community, so read your HOA's guidelines and check with your city about building permits.
Why HOAs care about roofs
Roofs are one of the most visible parts of a home, and HOAs use design guidelines to keep a consistent look across the neighborhood. Many communities in the East Valley were built with concrete tile roofs in a set of colors chosen by the builder, and the HOA's guidelines often aim to keep that look as homes are re-roofed.
Every HOA is different. Some have a short list of approved roof colors and materials, others allow anything that matches the home's style, and some require approval only when you change the look. Your HOA's CC&Rs and architectural guidelines are the place to start.
Find your HOA's rules first
Before you pick a tile or shingle, get the current documents from your HOA or its management company. They are often available through the community's website or resident portal.
- The CC&Rs, which set out the community's restrictions.
- The architectural or design guidelines, which usually cover roof materials, colors and profiles.
- The architectural review request document and any instructions for completing it.
- Any approved color palette or list of pre-approved roofing products.
- Meeting schedules for the architectural review committee, if it meets on set dates.
When you need approval
Many HOAs require approval for any exterior change, including a full re-roof, even if you plan to use the same material and color. Others only require it if something visible changes. Common situations that usually need approval include:
- Replacing the roof with a different tile color, blend or profile.
- Switching from tile to shingles, or the other way around, where the guidelines allow it.
- Changing gutter, fascia or trim colors as part of the project.
- Adding new visible items, such as roof vents in a different color or solar panels.
Matching tile profile and color
Concrete tile comes in several profiles, which describe the shape of each tile. Common ones include flat, low-profile S and high-profile S (often called Spanish or mission style). Colors range from single solid tones to blends of several shades. Your HOA may require the same profile and a similar color to the original, or a choice from an approved palette.
Exact matches can be hard, especially on older homes. Tile colors fade over time, and some original colors are no longer made. If you are only replacing underlayment through a re-felt or lift and relay, most of the existing tile is reused, so the look rarely changes, though a few replacement tiles may be needed. If a full tile replacement is planned, ask your roofer to bring samples so you can compare them with your home and your neighbors' roofs. Learn more on our tile roofs page.
What to include in an architectural review request
A complete request is the fastest way to get approval. Incomplete requests are often sent back, which restarts the clock. Most HOAs ask for some combination of the following:
- Your name, address and lot number, and the HOA's request document, completed in full.
- The roofing manufacturer, product line, color name and profile.
- A product brochure, color sheet or photo of the tile or shingle, and sometimes a physical sample.
- A photo of your home as it is now.
- The contractor's name and Arizona ROC license number. Ours is ROC #096629.
- Notes on any other visible changes, such as vents, gutters or fascia color.
- Your planned start date, if the HOA asks for one.
Typical timelines
Review times vary widely. Some HOAs approve standard requests within days, while others only review at monthly committee meetings. Many guidelines state a maximum review period, so check yours. Plan ahead and send your request well before you hope to start, especially if you want the work done before monsoon season begins on June 15.
Wait for written approval before work begins. Starting without approval can lead to fines or a requirement to change the roof, and that is an expensive mistake. Keep a copy of the approval letter with your roofing contract and warranty paperwork.
Building permits are separate
HOA approval and a building permit are two different things. The HOA controls appearance in the community. The city or town controls building safety and code compliance. Whether a re-roof needs a permit, and what the permit requires, depends on your city and the scope of work.
Requirements differ between Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler, Queen Creek and other cities, and can also vary based on whether the roof deck or structure is changed. Check your city's building department website or call them for current rules. On jobs that require a permit, the roofing contractor typically pulls it; ask your roofer to confirm.
How we help with HOA projects
We work in HOA communities across the East Valley. We can provide product information, color names, sample tiles and our license details for your request, and we schedule work after you have approval. See our pages on roof replacement and roofing in Gilbert, and our Roofing Cost Guide for what affects price. To get started, call 602-548-3770. If we don't answer, leave a message and we'll return your call within 24 hours.
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Frequently asked questions
Still have a question? Call the office at 602-548-3770, Monday to Friday, 7 am to 5 pm.
Do I need HOA approval to replace my roof with the same tile?
Many HOAs still require approval for a full re-roof, even with the same material and color. Others only require it if something visible changes. Check your architectural guidelines or ask your management company.
Do I need HOA approval for a re-felt or lift and relay?
Often not, since the existing tile is put back and the look does not change, but some HOAs want to be notified of any roof work. If replacement tiles will be noticeably different, ask before work starts.
What if my original tile color is no longer made?
This is common on older homes. Your roofer can bring samples of current colors that come close, and you can include them in your request. Some HOAs have an approved palette that lists acceptable replacements.
How long does HOA roof approval take?
It depends on the HOA. Some respond within days, while others review requests only at scheduled committee meetings. Your guidelines may list a maximum review time, so plan ahead.
Can my HOA make me use a specific roofing contractor?
HOAs typically regulate how a roof looks, not who installs it, though some have requirements such as licensing and insurance. Read your CC&Rs and guidelines or ask your management company.
Is a building permit required for a re-roof?
It depends on your city and the scope of the work. Rules differ between Gilbert, Mesa, Chandler and other cities. Check with your city's building department, and ask your roofer whether they will pull any permit required.
What happens if I re-roof without HOA approval?
Your HOA may issue a violation, charge fines or require changes if the roof does not meet the guidelines. Waiting for written approval avoids that risk.
Can I switch from tile to shingles in an HOA?
Some HOAs allow it and many do not, depending on the community's design standards. Check the architectural guidelines first, and include product details in your request if it is allowed.
Let's take a look at your roof.
Call the office at 602-548-3770 to schedule an estimate, Monday to Friday, 7 am to 5 pm. If we don't answer, leave a message and we'll return your call within 24 hours.