Information on this topic:

Information on this topic:

Information on this topic:


Other Articles in this Section:

Are things that are easily removable, such as stepping stones, allowed in common areas without an Alteration Permit?
What's the policy for installing a ramp to my unit?
What options do I have to keep the sun off my patio and out of my manor?
What should I do before I hire a contractor to perform an alteration?
I hired a contractor who was listed on the Contractor Referrals list obtained from the Permits and Inspections Office. Now, I am having problems with the contractor. What can I do?
My air conditioner is original; why won't you work on it?
I’ve just installed an exterior alteration, and I want to paint it to match my manor. Where can I get matching paint and how do I determine what color is needed?
I have some small projects that need attention in my home and carport storage area. May I use a handyman for these projects?
What is a Variance?
What are the policies governing satellite dish installations?
Can I install a gas line to my manor?
Do Alteration Permits expire?
What are the policies regarding installation of alterations that affect Mutual Common Area in both United Mutual and Third Mutual?
What is the policy regarding installation and repair of alterations to a manor?

Residents are saying:

What's the policy for installing a ramp to my unit?

What's the policy for installing a ramp to my unit?
There are standards for the installation of ramps (sloping accessible routes intended for access to and from a manor) in both United and Third Mutual. A copy of the standard is available online, and at the Permits and Inspections office. The Mutuals’ stance on ramps and walkways installed by members/owners is that they be designed and built as to be in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; therefore, the Ramp standards were developed using ADA requirements for ramps as a guideline, and in accordance with California Building Code (CBC).

United Architectural Standards: Section 36: Ramps http://lagunawoodsvillage.com//images/lwlagunawoods/Architectural%20Standards/United%20Laguna%20Hills%20Mutual%20Standards%20Document%20for%20Website%208-24-10.pdf  

Third Architectural Standards: Section 42: Ramps http://lagunawoodsvillage.com//images/lwlagunawoods/Architectural%20Standards/Third%20Laguna%20Hills%20Mutual%20Standards%20Document%20for%20Website8-24-10.pdf  

There is no specific standard for a “temporary” ramp, but if a member has a temporary need to modify the entrance to their manor to increase accessibility, they may apply for a variance. The Architectural Review Procedures for United and Third are available online under Resident Links: Operating Rules, which include a guidelines for the variance review process.

Lacking a Mutual Standard for an alteration, it is the member’s responsibility to request a variance and provide plans for consideration by the Mutual’s Maintenance and Construction Committee (M&C). The M&C Committee will make a recommendation to the Board to either approve the request, approve with contingencies, or deny the request, based on criteria relative to the requested variance.

The Committee may impose reasonable conditions before approval of installation of a wheelchair ramp, such as:

• The installation be performed by a licensed and bonded contractor;
• The installation must comply with applicable building codes; and
• All applicable city/county permits for the work be obtained by the owner or their contractors.

The Committee will consider the stability of the proposed ramp and ensure that the slope of the ramp does not exceed maximum slope guidelines (see Architectural Standards). The Mutuals will generally not accept conditions that increase the potential for accidents or injuries on Mutual property or common areas.

If the request for variance is denied by the Board of Directors, the member is given a period of time to comply with the Standard or restore the premises to its original condition. The member has the option to appeal the Board’s decision within one month of the Board’s decision on the matter.

It is important to note that while California Department of Fair Employment & Housing regulations require reasonable accommodation, and while the Board and staff are sensitive to the needs of individuals with medical conditions, the Mutual is obligated to take reasonable steps to prevent accidents or injuries on common areas.

Composed: 09/21/2010 | Modified: 09/21/2010
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