ACC - Application for Architectural Change

Note: Download the architectural change application form here

Send an email to the ACC chairman here with any questions you have.

The Architectural Control Committee’s (ACC) role is to review exterior changes to each property within Whittier to ensure they conform to the Covenants and By-laws of the community. The ACC does not inspect properties to determine compliance. This is the role of the community manager, Vanguard Management. Please note that submission to the ACC is in addition to any permit requirements for Frederick City, depending on the nature of the change. Construction permits are available from Frederick City, Building Permits (301) 360-3812.

How Do I Submit A Request to the ACC?
Remember that the homeowner (NOT the builder/contractor) is responsible for submitting a project to the ACC for review. The submission should contain:

• Architectural Change Submissions Form (Download the form here or call Vanguard at (301) 253-5052)
• A letter from the homeowner
• A plot plan with the project drawn/outlined.
• A drawing of the project and information on proposed color schemes
• A materials list
• For requests to designate a plot of ground as parking area for a recreational vehicle or other item described in Title X, plans for providing proper “screening” of the area are required.

If a homeowner does not submit these items, the ACC cannot conduct a thorough review of the submission, as we would not have a complete picture of what the homeowner has in mind!

Prior approval is required for, but not limited to: Sheds, fences, patios, decks, significant landscaping construction projects (walls, walks or significant changes in lawn area), exterior color changes, adding or changing any exterior doors (including storm doors), windows or trim. If you not sure what kind of projects require ACC approval, you can check:

• The Covenants and By-laws you received at settlement
• Vanguard Management at (301) 253-5052

It is VERY RISKY, and potentially could become very expensive, to begin working on a project prior to receiving ACC approval. The ACC meets on the first Monday of each month at Somerford at 7 P.M.. In order to ensure your request is processed by Vanguard and forwarded to the ACC in time to be reviewed at the monthly meeting, VANGUARD must receive your request by the end of the preceding month.

The mailing address is:

VANGUARD MANAGEMENT
P.O. Box 39
Germantown, MD 20875

You may also submit your request in person at the monthly ACC meeting. If you choose this option, prepare two packets of information, one to be submitted to the ACC and the other you must mail to Vanguard Management.

Screen door requests that meet all requirements are handled as they are received vs. being held until the monthly meeting.

An ACC approval is valid for one year. If you are unable to complete your project within that timeframe, you'll need to resubmit and request a new approval letter. Remember that an approval letter only covers your originally submitted project, design and materials. Should you need to make changes to the project (design, color, type of siding etc.) after receiving your approval, you must submit a modification and receive approval for the changes. If you're unsure if the changes you want to make require a re-submission, you can e-mail the ACC.

In cases where only pre-determined materials can be used (e.g. Alcoa siding for Townhouse garages), and you are unable to locate the specified material, you need to submit a variance request to the ACC to get approval to use something other than the specified product.

Have a question? Send it to NKeen@Vanguardmgt.com