HOA architectural committee: What they do, tips, guidelines, and more

An architectural committee, often called an Architectural Review Committee (ARC) or Architectural Control Committee (ACC), is a group within an HOA that reviews and approves exterior changes to properties in the community. These committees help maintain a consistent look and protect property values by confirming that exterior modifications meet the association’s architectural standards and governing documents.

In Texas, an architectural committee operates under the authority granted in the community’s Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs). The committee doesn’t create new HOA rules, but applies the standards already adopted by the board. Most Texas HOAs require homeowners to submit an application before making any exterior changes, whether that’s painting a home, adding a fence, or installing solar panels. The committee’s role is to review these requests objectively and fairly.
 

HOA architectural review committee responsibilities in Texas

An HOA architectural committee’s responsibilities in Texas vary depending on the community’s size and rules, but typically include:

• Reviewing applications: Before a homeowner can start any major home improvement project, construct any architectural additions, or make any alterations, they must submit a formal request to the HOA architectural committee. Members will carefully review the request to confirm that changes comply with the association's architectural standards.
   
• Recommending actions to the board: Since the HOA board generally has the final say, after reviewing each architectural request, the ACC/ARC typically provides recommendations to the board for approval or rejection.
   
• Monitoring violations: ACC/ARC members keep a close eye out for any architectural violations that are inconsistent with the association's architectural guidelines.
   
• Enforcing the Texas HOA architectural committee guidelines: Confirming compliance with the rules is essential for maintaining the community's uniformity, appeal, and enhancing property values.
   
• Assessing current standards: ACC/ARC members constantly evaluate the existing standards and make suggestions for changes to the HOA board if necessary.

Texas guidelines for ACCs/ARCs in HOAs

Texas property management laws recognize the importance of an architectural committee in maintaining the character of HOA communities. Under the Texas Property Code, HOA architectural review decisions must be made according to the procedures outlined in the association’s governing documents. The committee must act reasonably and within the authority granted by those documents.

In practice, this means decisions cannot be arbitrary or based on personal taste. If the CC&Rs state that fences must be made of certain materials or that roof shingles must match approved colors, the committee must apply those rules consistently. Homeowners typically have the right to know why a request was denied and may have the option to appeal to the board of directors if procedures allow.

Texas law also includes protections for homeowners related to certain modifications. For example, HOAs may be limited in their ability to prohibit certain solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and home security devices, though the ACC/ARC may be able to set reasonable placement and aesthetic guidelines for them in accordance with applicable laws.

No matter your community's architectural guidelines, the most important thing is that they should never conflict with federal, state, or local laws. If there are any inconsistencies, the law always takes precedence. As a Texas HOA board member, it’s crucial to stay on top of these laws to avoid breaching homeowners' rights and facing potential liability. A few laws to look out for include: Fair Housing Act, Over-the-Air Reception Devices Rule, and Solar Access Rights.
 

Typical review process for ACCs/ARCs in Texas

1. Homeowners gather project info

   Homeowners begin by submitting an architectural modification request form. This form should include a description of the project, materials to be used, color samples, and drawings or photos when applicable. The architectural committee reviews these details to confirm they’re complete before the review period begins. Request packets might require things like:
    
   • Resident contact info
      
   • Contractor info
      
   • Type of request/reason for request
      
   • Project description and dimensions
      
   • Plat maps
      
   • Paint samples/color swatches
      
   • List of materials
      
   • Project start/end dates



2. Request is submitted to the HOA

   Homeowners send their completed request packet to the HOA. This could be via mail, email, or online form. No matter your association’s process, make it easy for the homeowner to submit requests. One of the benefits of a good property manager is that they can set this up for you to make this as smooth as possible for both the committee and homeowners — here’s a sample online ACC form.
    

3. The ACC/ARC reviews the request

   Now it's the HOA architectural committee’s turn to review the packet. ACC/ARC committee members review the request to confirm that everything has been properly filled out by the homeowner and that the request complies with the association’s rules and regulations.
    

4. The board makes the final decision

   In most communities, the ACC/ARC reviews the request and makes a recommendation to the HOA board, which makes the final call whether to approve or deny the homeowner’s project request. If the request doesn’t meet association standards, the board can grant a variance or deny the request. Note that your community may follow a different review process.
    

5. The board’s decision is delivered to the homeowner

   Once the decision is made, the board will send a written response (letter or email) to the homeowner, letting them know if they can move forward with their project or not. Although it varies, the response time can be within 30 – 60 days.
   
   If the homeowner isn't happy with the board’s decision, they can revise and resubmit their request. Homeowners may also be able to appeal (see more on appealing an ACC denial to the board here).
    

6. Follow-up inspection

   When the project is finished, the architectural committee or property manager may conduct an inspection to confirm the work matches what was approved. If the work complies, the committee closes the application. If changes differ from the approved plan, the committee works with the homeowner to correct any issues.
    

7. Recordkeeping

   Accurate recordkeeping is essential for every architectural committee. Each decision, whether it’s an approval, denial, or modification, should be logged with supporting materials attached. These records help maintain consistency in future reviews and protect the association if questions arise later. Many Texas HOAs store these records digitally through their property management company to simplify long-term access.

Tips for effective architectural committees

Running an architectural committee in Texas requires consistency and organization. Here are a few practical ways to keep the process efficient and fair:

• Hold regular meetings to review requests promptly, especially during busy construction seasons.
   
• Develop clear design standards with visual examples, so homeowners understand expectations before submitting.
   
• Provide a standard checklist or form for applications to reduce incomplete submissions.
   
• Communicate decisions in writing within the timeline stated in your governing documents.
   
• Coordinate with your property management company for vendor insights, recordkeeping, and homeowner communication.
   
• Schedule annual reviews of design standards to keep them relevant as building materials and trends change.

About FirstService Residential

FirstService Residential is North America’s leading property management company and a trusted partner to communities across Texas. For more than two decades, we’ve provided comprehensive property management services that help boards and residents protect their investments and enhance daily life. Our Texas team offers tailored support that includes financial management, maintenance coordination, architectural review administration, and professional guidance for board operations.

With industry-leading technology, local expertise, and 24/7 customer care, we simplify community management so board members can focus on what matters most — building a community people are proud to call home. Contact us today to learn more.

This information is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute, and should not be relied upon as, legal, regulatory, financial, or operational advice, or as a representation or guarantee of any specific services, capabilities, or outcomes. Property management needs, regulatory requirements, market conditions, and available services vary by jurisdiction, property type, and community. FirstService Residential provides services through locally based affiliates and associates, and services and results may vary by community, region, contractual terms, and applicable law.