As the start of the new school year signals the end of summer, many Barker homeowners are taking advantage of the quiet with kids back in school to tackle exterior improvements—whether it's a fresh coat of paint, a new patio cover, or a much-needed fence repair. But before those projects begin, there's one critical step that residents shouldn't skip: submitting their plans for HOA approval.

It's a step that helps ensure the neighborhood maintains the consistent, well-kept aesthetic that drew many homeowners to Barker in the first place. And with the busy fall season fast approaching—when homes will be filled with guests for football parties, backyard barbecues, and holiday celebrations—August is the perfect time to take care of those upgrades while staying in step with neighborhood guidelines.

The Fence We Forgot

It’s easy to assume that some projects—especially those in the backyard—don’t need formal approval. After all, replacing a worn-out fence or fixing up a section that’s been through a few storms can feel more like maintenance than modification. But that’s exactly where many homeowners get tripped up.

Fences, it turns out, are among the most commonly overlooked projects when it comes to HOA approval. Because they’re usually in the backyard, they might feel like a personal detail. But in reality, fencing plays a big role in the visual cohesion of a community—especially in neighborhoods like Barker, where curb appeal is a shared value and property values benefit from a consistent, polished appearance.

And while many fences are tucked away behind the home, sections are often visible from the street—particularly for corner lots or homes near major neighborhood intersections, where long stretches of fencing are exposed to both foot and vehicle traffic.

Whether it’s wood, metal, or composite, even minor changes to fencing—like height, color, or design—can affect neighboring sightlines and the overall harmony of the street view. That’s why HOAs require submittals: to protect every homeowner’s investment while allowing for thoughtful, well-integrated improvements.

Mobile Sidebar Ad

What Needs Approval—and Why

While fences are a common example, other projects that typically require HOA review include:

• Exterior paint (even if it’s the same color)
• Roof replacements
• Driveway extensions
• Landscape redesigns
• Patio covers or pergolas
• Window and door replacements
• Solar panel installations
• Pool installations

Each of these modifications can impact the look and feel of the community, and the approval process is in place not to hinder creativity, but to keep things fair, consistent, and aligned with the architectural guidelines laid out in the deed restrictions.

How to Submit Your Project

To simplify the process, homeowners in Barker can find everything they need online:

• Visit Barker
• Find your community management company's contact information and official website link in the "HOA Information" block on your webpage

There, you'll be guided to deed restrictions, architectural guidelines, contact information for the management company, online portals for submitting projects, downloadable forms, and more.

Submitting early in August ensures your project is reviewed and approved in time to complete work before the fall and holiday seasons begin in full swing. It also helps avoid costly corrections or rework if a project is done without prior approval.

Mobile Sidebar Ad

Looking Ahead

Being a good neighbor in Barker doesn’t just mean waving hello—it means participating in the upkeep of the community’s charm, safety, and property values. And that starts with doing things the right way.

So whether you're planning a simple fence refresh or a full outdoor overhaul, make sure your first step is an easy one: submit your project for HOA approval. It’s one small move that helps keep Barker beautiful—for you, your neighbors, and the families you’ll be welcoming home this fall.

Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News and your community webpage for more updates, seasonal reminders, and local tips to help you make the most of your home.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.