Architectural Review Board

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Existing Homes

1. When do I need an ARB permit?

Any exterior work being done to a home or its landscaping needs approval and a permit from the ARB prior to starting work. The Board requires this to ensure that each home on Kiawah continues to blend with its neighborhood and natural environment. Please contact the ARB for specifics regarding your planned project. A Kiawah Island building permit must be issued prior to commencement of any clearing, material delivery, painting, or construction.

2. What is required to submit to the ARB for an improvement I am planning for my home?

The scope of requirements depends on the scope of the planned project. Typically, the homeowner will need to submit a letter of intent outlining planned work, an Improvement Review Fee, color samples with an Approved Color Form, a site plan, appropriate plans and elevations, and a completed Improvement Review Form. Because the Improvement Review Fee is based on the scope of work being planned, please contact the ARB to determine the fee amount for your project. Please note that the Improvement Review Fee is not part of the construction deposit.

3. What is the ARB's position on adding appurtenances to my home (i.e. play structures, pools, game structures, docks, bridges, bulkheads, lifts, fencing, etc)?

Please refer to pages 24 - 28 of Designing with Nature for an overview of many possible appurtenances to homes. If the sections listed do not cover what you are considering or you have more specific questions, please contact the ARB. We will be happy to help you with any questions you may have.

4. How long does it take to get ARB approval for an improvement to my home?

Most improvements are reviewed by the ARB staff and are typically completed within a few weeks. Maintenance improvement reviews are typically complete within a week.

5. I am planning on painting my home. Are there any required painting specifications?

Yes. All exterior colors should complement the natural surrounding environment. The ARB requires that all colors be reviewed on-site prior to painting of homes. Paint samples must be applied in an obvious area, a minimum size of one (1) foot by one (1) foot, and to color-specific materials (i.e. siding color with siding material). Paint may be applied directly to various surfaces on the home to indicate color placement. The homeowner or contractor must also submit an Approved Final Color Form outlining all colors to be painted on the home. Once the form is approved by the ARB, you may then apply for a permit.

6. If I am painting my house the same color, do I still need to get a permit?

Yes, even if repainting your home the same color, an ARB permit is required.

7. I am planning improvement work at a villa, cottage, or townhouse on Kiawah Island. What is the review process?

For homeowners with regime or association managed properties, written approval of any exterior changes must be received from the Regime or Association Board prior to submitting to the ARB for an Improvement Review. The ARB will review improvement submittals for villas, cottages, and townhouses only after we have received the letter from the Regime or Association Board.

8. What if I am only repainting or repairing my villa, cottage, or townhouse?

You must contact your regime manager to inform them of work to be occurring on your home. You will need to submit a Construction Application and the appropriate deposit to the ARB office to receive a building permit. Please verify the specific colors to be used on your home with both the ARB and your regime manager.

9. My improvement project is complete. When will my construction deposit be returned?

The ARB MUST be contacted and informed of project completion by either the homeowner or contractor, preferably whoever funded the original deposit check. The ARB will then inspect the construction project. Once the property has been inspected and the release of the deposit approved, the refund process will begin. The refund typically takes a week to be processed. As the refund will be returned to the name on the deposit check, it is imperative that the ARB is informed of any address changes. If this information is not disclosed, the refund check may be delayed.

Other FAQ's

 

Kiawah Real Estate