Architectural Review Form

Written approval is required before any exterior modifications are made to your home. Please submit the Architectural Review (AR) form at least 30 days before work begins. There are two ways to submit your request:

1)  Print and mail the completed form to Cumberland Management, PO Box 493, Fishers, IN 46038
OR
2)  Print, scan, and email the completed form to info@cumberlandmgmt.com

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: When do I need approval from the Architectural Review Board (ARB)?
Before making any change that affects the outside appearance of your home or lot. This includes new construction, additions, exterior alterations, repairs that change appearance, color changes, excavation, or grading changes. Fences, walls, and accessory structures like storage sheds or "mini barns" specifically require written ARB approval before installation. When in doubt, submit a request — no exterior work should begin without it. 

Q: What kinds of projects typically need approval?
Common examples include (this is not an exclusive list): 

• New fences, walls, hedges, or privacy screening 

• Sheds, mini barns, or other accessory structures 

• Additions or structural changes to your home 

• Exterior color changes or re-siding 

• Satellite dishes and antennas (subject to Board rules) 

• Signs, awnings, canopies, or shutters attached to the home 

• Driveway or grading changes 

• Swimming pools or other permanent yard improvements 

Q: How do I submit a request?
Complete the Architectural Change Request form and email it to Cumberland Management Company at info@cumberlandmgmt.com or mail it to:

Cumberland Management Company
PO Box 493
Fishers, IN  46038

Q: What do I need to include with my request?
A complete request includes:

• Your contact information (name, address, phone, email) 

• A brief description of the proposed change 

• The major construction materials to be used (exterior materials must match or be compatible with your home's existing materials) 

• Whether the project extends beyond your property line (if so, the name and address of the affected neighbor) 

• For additions or alterations that change your home's structural appearance: blueprints or working drawings with dimensions and elevations, plus a photo or drawing of a similar completed project if you have one 

• Your project schedule — who's doing the work, how long it will take, and whether building permits are required 

• A plot plan showing the location and dimensions of the project — this is required for every request. Applications submitted without one will be returned. 

• Your signature acknowledging that you've read and understand the architectural standards and governing documents 

• A completed "Easement & Utility Access Waiver"
  Keep a copy of everything for your own records — submitted materials become the property of the Association. 

Q: What is the Easement & Utility Access Waiver, and do I need it?
Yes, it's required with every request. If your project could extend into a drainage easement or block access to utility meters or equipment, this waiver acknowledges that you, as the homeowner, accept full responsibility for any cost to remove or replace the improvement if the utility company, Association, or city ever needs access to that area. 

Q: How long does the ARB have to respond?
The ARB has 60 days from when it receives a complete application (with all required plans and specifications) to approve, modify, or deny it in writing. If the ARB doesn't respond within that 60-day window, the request is automatically considered approved. 

Q: Realistically, how long will my request take?
Much less than 60 days. Emailed requests are typically acknowledged within 48 hours of receipt, and our volunteer Board generally aims to review complete requests within a few days after that. 

That said, our Board members are neighbors volunteering their time so turnaround can vary depending on their availability and the number of requests in the queue. If you're working toward a contractor start date or other deadline, it's best to submit your request as early as possible rather than waiting until the last minute. 

Q: Does ARB approval mean I don't need other permits?
No. ARB approval is in addition to, not instead of, any approvals you may need from the county, municipality, or other government agencies. You're still responsible for obtaining any required building permits or other governmental sign-offs separately. 

Q: What is the ARB looking for when it reviews a request?
The Board's role is to protect property values and neighborhood consistency by reviewing the external design, appearance, placement, and materials of proposed changes — making sure they fit harmoniously with surrounding homes, structures, and the natural landscape. 

Q: Who serves on the Architectural Review Board?
The ARB is a standing committee of the HOA made up of at least three people. Its chairperson must also be a member of the Board of Directors.  

Q: Who reviews my request once I submit it?
Completed forms go to Cumberland Management Company, which manages requests on the Association's behalf. The 60-day response clock (see above) starts once your complete application — including the plot plan and easement waiver — is received. 

Q: What happens if I make a change without getting approval first?
Unapproved exterior work is a covenant violation. The Association can pursue legal remedies, including seeking an injunction, and may recover attorneys' fees and costs if action is required to enforce compliance. It's much simpler to submit a request first. 

Q: Can the HOA waive the architectural approval process?
No. The covenants specifically prohibit the Association from waiving or abandoning the architectural review process without the written approval of all owners and all mortgagees with a recorded interest — so this requirement isn't going away and applies consistently to everyone.