X.C. Major Improvements

WRITTEN APPROVAL FROM GHI IS REQUIRED FOR ALL OTHER ALTERATIONS OR IMPROVEMENTS IN ADVANCE OF STARTING THE WORK.

FOR STORAGE SHEDS, SEE SECTION IX.
FOR FENCES SEE SECTION VII.
FOR PRIVACY SCREENS, SEE SECTION VIII.
FOR ANTENNAS, SEE SECTION XII.

1. REQUESTS. Only the member may make the request in writing to the GHI Technical Services Office. A request form is available from that office. Requests made by contractors are not acceptable since the member is responsible to GHI for conforming to the established standards. Incomplete information causes delays in the approval of the request. Requests by a member for any new permits shall not be processed until any outstanding violations of GHI rules and regulations by the member which have been cited by staff are corrected.
2. NEIGHBOR CONSENT. The following Table outlines the type of neighbor consent (defined in the Section X Definitions) required for specific alterations.
   

   Alteration	Content Required
   Additions	Adjacent
   Decks/Porches	Adjacent
   Screening/Enclosure of Existing Porch	Adjacent
   Hedges	Adjoining
   Privacy Screens	Adjoining
   HVAC Condensers	Adjacent
   Entry Door Paint Colors	Adjoining
   Rain Barrels	Adjoining

     
3. SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS. All drawings and specifications must be complete and accurate enough to show exactly the work that is contemplated. A list of specific submittal requirements is included in the GHI Alterations Request Package available from the Technical Services Office. The following is an overview of the types of information required by GHI in order to grant approval.
4. GENERAL
   Alteration permission requests shall include:
   
   • name(s), license number(s), and contact information for all contractors and subcontractors who will provide work on the proposed alteration.
   • projected work schedule including anticipated start and completion dates;
   • written consent from neighbors as required (see Section X Definitions and X.C.1.b).
   Alteration permission requests shall also include detailed, scaled, and dimensioned drawings, and other technical specifications as determined by Technichal Services.  These may include but are not limited to the following:
   
   • yard plot plan, if request is for any addition, deck, or landscaping project that could alter groundwater flow;
   • floor plan of existing home and alteration;
   • foundation plan and details;
   • wall section detail(s);
   • roof plan, including framing layout, if request is for an addition;
   • roof section detail(s);
   • electrical drawing(s) if and as required;
   • plumbing drawing(s) if and as required;
   • manufacturers’ catalog information or specifications for doors, windows, and other components.
5. STRUCTURAL. If the removal or alteration of any interior or exterior wall or structural component is contemplated, drawings or engineering specifications must be submitted and must show sufficient detail. These types of alterations require extra care because partitions and other walls are often load bearing, supporting the upper structure, and integral to the structural integrity of the building.
6. ELECTRICAL. Where alteration includes electrical work, other than simple replacement of existing receptacles, switches, and lights in the same location(s) as existing, submit drawings showing new electrical work. If new branch circuit(s) or service increase are part of the work, drawings and load calculations prepared by a licensed master electrician or electrical engineer shall be submitted if and as required in the sole judgment of GHI Technical staff.
7. PLUMBING. Where alteration includes plumbing work, other than simple replacement of existing fixture(s) in the same location(s), submit drawing(s) showing new plumbing work.  Furnish schematic diagrams for supply, waste, and vent piping; show piping size and material for each application. Show all penetrations of roofs, floors and walls, including method of sealing.
8. EQUIPMENT. Provide manufacturer catalog data and warranty information for all equipment to be installed as part of the Alteration, including but not limited to windows, doors, skylights, HVAC equipment wod-burning stoves or fireplaces, plumbing fixtures, and major appliances.
9. MATERIALS. Specify all materials to be incorporated in the proposed Alteration, including but not limited to foundation components, lumber, insulation, sheathing, siding, and roofing. For siding and roofing submit color samples for approval. Where requested by Technical Services staff, provide manufacturer catalog data and warranty information.
10. LANDSCAPING. Major landscaping improvements (e.g. ponds, pavers, patios, retaining walls, grade changes) require written approval. This is because even small changes could cause drainage problems. Catalog data, descriptions, installation drawings must be submitted to convey the concept of the installation.
11. APPROVAL. Staff will review each application to determine that all required documents and information have been furnished by the member. Once all required information has been provided, staff will review the completed application.

If the proposed alteration meets all GHI criteria, staff will issue a GHI permit. Staff has the prerogative to refer any issues, whether or not explicitly clarified within these rules, to the appropriate committee and/or the GHI Board of Directors.

A GHI permit must be secured prior to applying for all other permits. It is the member’s responsibility, once a GHI permit is issued, to secure all required permits (Prince George’s County, City of Greenbelt, WSSC), inspections, and approvals. Before starting alteration work, member must submit copies of all required permits to GHI Technical Services office.