Exterior alteration application and In-home business application link with cover page
What Steps Must The Resident Take? Residents whose property is a part of a townhouse or condominium association must check with that association to see if it has its own form of architectural guidelines and its own review process. Homeowners must also contact Miss Utility at least 48 hours prior to a project that requires digging to have the underground utility lines marked. Lastly, some projects may require Howard County building or variance permits. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to obtain all applicable approvals and adhere to all restrictions. Protect yourself...your Architectural Committee recommends that homeowners use only licensed contractors to perform work in and around your home. Hiring an unlicensed contractor may put you at risk for shoddy construction and additional costs down the road. The contractors work may not meet local building codes, construction standards and permitting requirements. And if the unlicensed contractor or one of his employees is injured while on your property, YOU may be held liable for these injuries as unlicensed contractors often do not carry insurance and are not bonded. Check the MD State Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation website to verify a license or call the Maryland Home Improvement Commission at 410.230.6309. Links to resources for residents: Howard County Department of Licenses and Permits: http://co.ho.md.us/DILP/Permits/Permits_Building.htm Miss Utility: http://www.missutility.net/iticlite/ MD State Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation: http://www.dllr.state.md.us/pq/ --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When considering making any changes to the exterior of your home, initiating an in-home business or changing your landscaping, you should first consult the Guidelines for Exterior Alterations. Click here for a copy of the Guidelines. These guidelines will help to finalize your plans and will advise whether a formal application is necessary. If in doubt, contact the Covenant Advisor at 410-730-0770 or via email: hccovenants@columbiavillages.org.
