We've compiled a list of some Frequently Asked Questions below. If you can't find the question/answer you are looking for on this page, select Search - we'll search the entire site for you. If you'd like to ask your own question, click Ask A Question and we'll get back to you with an answer.
Dues are due in October, January, April, July
Walton Lake Homeowners Association
P.O. Box 75481
Baltimore, MD 21275-5481
What type of grass is most prevalent in Walton Lake? Where can I find out about proper care of an existing lawn?
Most houses have Fescue grass. You may check with Southern States (on Alverser Drive - off Midlothian past Saturn dealer and movie theater)- they're great experts, helpful and best of all ... free! They can help you establish an annual program. Lowe's and Home Depot have better prices, but SS has unparalleled good-ole-boy advice! Good luck!
Mantels are available from Larry at the Walton Lake Clubhouse - . Contact Larry for pickup. A packet of two mantels is $8.00 payable by check to WLHOA. Mantels can also be purchased form Pleasant's Hardware or Dixie Gas.
Bulbs may also be purchased from Larry for $15.00 for two bulbs. It is recommended if one is burned out, replace both. Bulb prices have gone through the roof, we do not make a profit on the bulbs or mantels.
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What is the procedure for replacing a gas lantern mantel?
The procedure is to find your lamp shutoff valve (some are near the furnace/heater and hot water heater in garage), turn the red handle to OFF (perpendicular to piping line). Verify flame goes out in lamp. Wait 1 hour for lamp to cool. Sniff lamp area for pungent natural gas smell. If you detect any gas smell, recheck gas valve to insure it is OFF, or seek another shutoff valve. DO NOT PROCEED UNTIL GAS IS OFF!! If no smell detected, Carefully slide 1-2 panels of glass up towards top, then tilt to remove out of opening. Remove all remnants of former mantel bag (including string at top). You may want to also clean out any bug carcasses from the bottom of the lamp housing and verify screen is still covering lower vent holes. If using a standard mantle, tie new bag around circular disk at end of gas nozzle (inside lamp). Note these rings turn and can be removed. Tie string such that when tightened it ends up in the ring's groove. Insure the ring and mantel bag are installed. Replace all but one glass panel. Have someone turn ON gas supply valve while you ignite the new mantel with an extended flame or match. The bag should begin to burn with a greenish hue and slowly shrink in size to about 1.5 inches long. NOTE: If your house is over 5 years old, you may want to get some heat tolerant GLOSS BLACK Spray paint (Lowe's or Home Depot) and re-paint the lamp housing. Simply TURN OFF lamp, remove all glass panes, put your car in the garage, close door and have some fun. Consider cleaning or sanding any oxidized areas prior to painting to insure the new paint adheres well. Use the remaining paint to re-paint your ash-dump access door on your chimney. Then, pass the remainder of the paint to your neighbor, chances are his is lamp and door look just as bad.
How can I rent the clubhouse? How can I find out when the clubhouse is available?
You should first verify that the dates are not already reserved by going to the Clubhouse Calender page. Go to Stay Connected; Calendar; Clubhouse Calendar. Go to the date you want to rent the clubhouse to confirm its available. If its available request the date by clicking on the Request Reservation button and complete the form. Once all required information is entered, submit the form. The completed information will be sent to the Clubhouse Director who will promptly verify rental date requested and confirm the reservation or notify you of any conflict with the selected date.
How often are the Walton Lake Newsletters published?
The WALTON LAKE NEWS is published monthly. Publications will generally be delivered around the 15th. Note this is a communications tool for your HOA Board to relay information to you, the members. To read current and past editions go to the Walton Lake News webpage.
What is the approval process for making improvements to my property?
Proposed modifications must be submitted to the Architecture Review Committee for approval as described in Walton Lake Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (PDF) Article X. All submissions for improvement must be made to the Director of Architecture Review . Please click on this link to the Management Office and Forms page for more information and submission form. templates.
What type of paint is used to paint Lanterns and posts?
A matte black grill spray paint or Rustoleum black paint is recommended Turn off light and let cool before painting (this would be the ideal time to replace the mantle as well).
If my gas lantern is not repairable what do I do?
ARC approved conversion to electric light by using an approved conversion kit. The CharmLite 24 v can be purchased at www.charm-lite.com for approximately $100, and installed per requirements and instructions spelled out on the Walton Lake Website and in the spring 07 newsletters .
Light Specifications:
- CharmLite 24 Volt Gas Light Conversion Kit
- 11 inch stem
- Copper BulbTree
- Clear Bulbs or Haloxen bulbs
- Use of the Dusk to Dawn photo control is optional - however the light must be on during non-daylight hours
- All wiring must be hidden from view (you can purchase wire from Charm-lite)
- Gas to the unit should be turned off and the gas line capped.
- Retain original lamppost and fixture.
- Total cost with shipping - approx. $100
You can also contact Kevin Alford - Knightrider Electric @ 804-931-1859 or . If your light stops working, email Larry at for replacement bulbs. With the Charm-Lite unit, if one bulb is out, the whole unit stops working.
See instructions here: Gas Lamp Conversion
Where do I get a new mail box post?
The posts are custom made and can be purchased for $70.00 by contacting Larry (Walton Lake maintenance) at .
What color paint do I use for the mailbox post?
The correct specification for the post is Bone White C3, I-1/2, L-2 semi-gloss (quart size) and is available at Duron, or any other custom mix paint store.
Where do I get a new mail box?
A rural black mailbox can usually be found at Lowe's or Home Depot. It can be ordered if not in stock. If yours is rusty it can be spray painted with Rustoleum black paint.
Why do I have to screen my garbage cans or air conditioning units?
Per Article X 10.04 D "owner shall provide a screen �in which garbage receptacles�air conditioning equipment and other unsightly objects must be placed or stored in order to conceal them from view from the road and adjacent lots". Outside storage containers and ladders would fall under this category.
Why was I written up for having a sign in the yard?
Per Article XI 11.2 "no signs of any kind shall be displayed on any Lot except for one advertising the property for sale or for a sign used by a builder to advertise the property during the construction period."
Received an ARC notice requiring corrective action?
Article XI 11.09specifies "owner shall keep his lot and all improvements thereon in good order and repair and free of debris�seeding ..cutting trees,.mowing lawns." Peeling paint, mildew on siding, repair of driveway would fall into this category.
Written up for Boats, Campers on property?
Per Article XI 11.5, "No trucks, commercial vehicles, recreation vehicles, campers, boats or boat trailers shall be parked over 48 hours in any one week on any lot or driveway so as to visible from the street or an adjacent lot."
Considering a satellite dish?
Sixth Amendment to Declaration of Walton Lake Covenants State:
Antennae (Including Satellite Dishes). Antennae (including satellite dishes) are permitted only if they meet the Federal Communications Commission's ("FCC") definition of devices whose installation, maintenance or use may not be restricted. All other antennae, dishes and similar devices are prohibited.
Subject to modification, replacement and/or adoption of new rules by the FCC subsequent to October 2002, the following antennae and related mountings are permitted:
(1) A "dish" antenna that is one meter (39.37 inches) or less in diameter and is designed to receive direct broadcast satellite service, including direct-to-home satellite service, or to receive or transmit any commercial non-broadcast communications signals transmitted to and/or from a fixed customer location via satellite (e.g., telephone service or satellite Internet access).
(2) An antenna that is one meter or less in diameter or diagonal measurement and is designed to receive video programming services via MMDS (wireless cable) or to receive or transmit any commercial non-broadcast communications signals transmitted to and/or from a fixed customer location other than via satellite.
(3) An antenna that is designed to receive local television broadcast signals.
(4) Mounting masts less than 12 feet above the roofline.
Note that the devices described above do not include, among other things, devices that receive or transmit AM/FM radio, amateur ("HAM") radio, Citizens Band ("CB") radio, and Digital Audio Radio Services ("DARS") signals; such devices are prohibited.
Owners installing and/or maintaining a permitted antenna are encouraged to place the device in a location that minimizes its impact on the neighborhood, such as on the rear of structures, below the roofline, behind screening landscaping or inside attics wherever feasible.
WHAT IS THAT BLACK STUFF ON THE ROOFS?
Per information supplied by Chesterfield Extension 3 years ago when this problem first surfaced, it is not likely mildew or fungus. It is most likely algae spores carried by the wind . It first usually appears on the north slope of a roof where extra shade and moisture support its growth. When environmental conditions are right for algae development, the problem rapidly expands, covering the entire roof. Once algae are present in an area, airborne spores are carried from rooftop to rooftop, infesting whole neighborhoods. Talk to others in your neighborhood that have used a cleaning service for their roof. If you decide to replace your roof shingles, select algae resistant shingles.
What is a homeowner's association?
It is a non-profit corporation registered with the State and managed by a duly elected Board of Directors. Its purpose is to maintain all common areas and to govern the community in accordance with the provision of the legal documents: CC&Rs, Bylaws, and Articles of Incorporation. The governing legal documents for the association may be viewed online within the Resource Center page of this site. The corporation is financially supported by all members of the homeowners association. Membership is both automatic and mandatory.
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What are the CC&Rs?
The Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&Rs) are the governing legal documents that set up the guidelines for the operation of the planned community as a non-profit corporation. The CC&Rs were recorded by the County recorder's office of the County in which the property is located and are included in the title to your property. Failure to abide by the CC&Rs may result in a fine to a homeowner by the Association. The governing legal documents for the association may be viewed online within the Resource Center page of this site.
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What are the Bylaws?
The Bylaws are the guidelines for the operation of the non-profit corporation. The Bylaws define the duties of the various offices of the Board of Directors, the terms of the Directors, the membership's voting rights, required meetings and notices of meetings, and the principal office of the Association, as well as other specific items that are necessary to run the Association as a business. The Bylaws for the association may be viewed online within the Resource Center page of this site.
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What is the Board of Directors?
The Homeowner's Association again is a corporation and therefore a governing body that is required to oversee its business. The Board of Directors is elected by the homeowners, or as otherwise specified in the bylaws. The limitations and restrictions of the powers of the Board of Directors is outlined in the Association governing documents found within the Resource Center page of this site.
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Are there any other rules?
Most associations have developed Rules and Regulations as provided for in the CC&Rs and adopted by the Board of Directors. Rules are established to provide direction to the homeowners for common courtesies with regard to parking, vehicles, pets and pool use hours, etc. In addition, your Association will adopt Architectural Guidelines with procedures for submitting requests to make exterior changes to your home. Such changes may include patio covers, decks, landscaping, exterior color changes or extensive interior changes and additions. These rules and guidelines are set up to maintain the aesthetic value and integrity of the community on behalf of all owners, and hopefully protect the market value of your investment as well. Violations of these rules may result in action by the Board of Directors and a fine. In addition, if you proceed with an exterior improvement or change, without written approval of the Board of Directors, or Architectural Committee, as applicable, you will be required to remove or correct the alteration and/or be fined for the violation. For more information about this topic visit the Resource Center page of this site.
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If I am having a problem with a neighbor for a violation of the Policies and Guidelines, what can I do?
If residents cannot resolve a situation between themselves, then turn to your Association. Should you have a situation that does not appear to be resolved through neighborly means, and you are willing to actively participate in the enforcement provided by the Policies and Guidelines, you may complete a Covenant Violation form online. The Violation form may be found within the Management Office page on this site. If the situation is deemed in violation of the Policies and Guidelines, the Board of Directors will institute the enforcement policy. Your continued assistance may be required.
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Are Board Meetings open to all residents? If so, where and when are they held?
Yes. Notice of the time and place of any regular board meeting will be noted in the community newsletter, or accessed online on the Calendar page.
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If I want to serve on a committee, how do I find out what committees are active and how I can get involved?
The Contact Us page of this website will inform you of the status of current committees organized and committee contact information. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the committee chair or fill out the online volunteer form found on the Management Office page of this site.
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What happens if I don't pay my assessment?
The maintenance and management services incurred by the Association are dependent upon timely receipt of the assessments due from each homeowner. Late payments will result in a late charge as assessments are due on the first of the month. In addition, the CC&Rs allows the Association to charge late charges and interest and proceed with a lien on your property, or foreclosure proceeding for nonpayment of assessments.
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