Covenants
WHAT ARE COVENANTS?
"Covenants "are a short name used for "Covenants, Condition and Restrictions" (CC&Rs) that describe "rules" governing a number of conditions which the owner must abide by as well as a number of conditions which cannot be allowed. They run with the land and apply to all present and subsequent owners. They are designed to not only protect the values of the real estate involved, but also to provide assurance that all owners within the area will abide by the same conditions in order to create and maintain a compatible and attractive group of individualized, quality homes.
WHAT DO THE COVENANTS COVER?
A general description of the developer's plan such as "Single Family Residences," a size and quality requirement including material and exterior color, positioning on lots, etc, and a number of prohibitions against permitting garbage to accumulate, parking junk vehicles, boats or trucks, obstructing neighbors views with tall trees, fences or high roof lines, etc are included.
HOW TO GET A COPY OF YOUR COVENANTS?
You should have received a copy of your covenants when you purchased your home, so check your closing documents and escrow papers. You may also download them from this site.
HANDLING COMPLAINTS AND VIOLATIONS
If an owner believes a neighbor is violating the terms of the covenants what should be done? The first thing to do is talk with the neighbor-owner pointing out the condition that you believe creates the violation. Most matters can be resolved with friendly conversation. If a difference of opinion still remains, then send a "Neighbor Complaint Form" with a description of the problem to the CRC along with a copy to the respondent. With view-related problems, it is also helpful if a photograph is submitted.
Following the receipt of the written Neighbor Complaint Form, the Board will assign a member or members to represent the committee and an investigation will begin. The situation will be discussed with all the parties and considered by the committee. Consideration will be given to compliance with terms of the covenants as well as the existing viewpoints and positions of lot owners. The committee will send the findings to all parties. If a party is dissatisfied with the committee's decision, the committee will recommend that the party contact the City of Oak Harbor or seek other legal options.