Topics covered here:

1.    Where to find Seneca Ridge Declarations and By-laws

2.    Home Improvements

3.    Exterior Paint Colors

4.    Roof Replacement

5.    Exterior Decorations

6.    Where to pay Monthly Dues

7.    Pets and other animals

8.    Trash Collection

9.    Is solicitation allowed in the Community

10. Board Nominations and Elections

11. What to do if you’re moving

12. What is a Resale Certificate

13. Can I rent my home

14. In what township is Seneca Ridge located

15. Annual Yard Sale date

16. Christmas Tree Recycling

17. How to submit questions, comments, etc.

18. Receiving communications from the Property Manager and BOD

1. Where can I find Seneca Ridge's Declaration of Restrictions,
Covenants, and Conditions, and By-laws?

You may access the documents here:
a. The C21 Appfolio site, under Shared Folder > Documents or

b. On the SR web site: Under “About Us” > HOA documents

A key note on Declarations and By-laws: At closing, when you purchased your property, you signed acknowledgement of your awareness of the existence of the Declarations and By-laws and stated that you would abide by them. If you have any questions, whatsoever, regarding the contents, you should read the documents.

2. I would like to make exterior improvement(s) to my home, what must I do?

a. Submit an Architectural Request (AR) Form from the SR Web site:

[About Us > HOA documents > Form for Architectural Approvals] to pm@c21.com

OR

b. Sign onto C21’s Appfolio site, click on “Shared documents” (left side) > Forms >

Architectural Request Form

This form is to be used by homeowners when submitting any planned exterior projects that are considered a significant improvement, structural alteration, or addition to one’s property (This is an absolute must for Duplexes and Townhomes).

All homeowners are subject to disclosure to the HOA of any exterior construction projects or improvements being made to their property (i.e. fencing, pools, exterior storage units, windows, exterior doors, solar panels, roof replacement, etc.).

The form must be submitted and approved BEFORE work is started. The Board will review the form to make sure the work conforms with the type of modifications, colors and kind of material consistent with what the builder used to create the SR community and complies with SR Community Declarations, and By-laws. Please provide a detailed description, including the type of material, paint colors, measurements and location of the “improvement or addition”. Pictures are worth a thousand words. Drawings or pictures (by the contractor or homeowner) will help the Board see your planned change, renovation, or improvement.

You are responsible for obtaining/posting any required Work Permit while the job is worked and completed. Your contractor should help you obtain this.

NOTE:  It’s safer to submit an Architectural Request form than to not do so. If in doubt, check with the HOA’s Declaration of Restrictions, Covenants, Conditions document, which outlines the kind and type of improvements, allowed for the different home types within SR.

The AR form is NOT REQUIRED if you simply need to replace something that is broken (i.e. a window pane) or re-paint exterior doors, shutters, trim/foundation, replace gutters, downspouts, etc. as these are considered routine maintenance of the property. There is an expectation by the HOA that these repairs are done when needed and in as timely a manner as possible. Replacements should be the same or similar in design and color to the structures being replaced and should not clash with the overall community appearance. Homeowners are welcome to confer with the Board (via the Contact Us page or e-mailing C21) before starting any routine project to obtain suggestions or feedback.

3. I live in a townhome and need to paint my door and/or shutters, what color should I use?

You should use the same or an equivalent paint color to that originally used on your townhome doors and shutters. Doors and shutters should match in color.

Note on Original Duron Colors: Duron paints were used during development of the community. Duron Paint was acquired by Sherwin Williams in 2004. Paints that are said to be equivalent to the original Duron paints are available at Sherwin Williams and Lowes. See information below.

Original and Alternate Approved Colors: (available at Sherwin Williams and Lowe's) 

a) Urban Putty #SW7532 (Duron "Almond" was discontinued)

Trim/Foundation Wall: Urban Putty #SW7532

b) Old Colonial Red – Duron color #949; Sommelier #SW7595

c) Farmhouse Red - Duron color #948; Crabby Apple #SW7592 SW

d) Georgetown Green - Duron color #979; Rockwood Shutter Green #SW2809

e) Carolina Slate Blue - Duron color #999; Sea Serpent #SW7615

f) Western Reserve - Duron color #8716; Buckwheat Brown #HGSW3461

4. I need to replace my roof, what shingles should I use?

An Architectural Request should be submitted to the Property Manager and HOA anytime a Duplex or Townhome roof is to be replaced to insure you are in compliance with HOA Declarations and By-laws. Colors which differ significantly from the original will most likely not be approved.

DUPLEX ROOFS: The following shingles/ridge caps are recommended for replacing roofs on duplexes. This style and color are the original materials that were used. Best results are achieved if both sides of a duplex are replaced at the same time.

GAF Timberline HDZ

Style: Dimensional

Color: Weathered Wood

Ridge Cap: TimberTex premium (shingled)

TOWNHOME ROOFS: The following shingles/ridge caps are recommended for replacing roofs on townhomes. This color is the original color that was used. Original shingles were flat and tabbed; 20 years later, dimensional shingles are recommended. Best results are achieved if all homes in the same building are replaced at approximately the same time.

GAF Timberline HDZ

Style: Dimensional

Color: Weathered Wood

Ridge Cap: TimberTex premium (shingled)

SINGLE-FAMILY ROOFS: The colors of roofing materials on single family homes vary. It is recommended to match the original color and use the ‘dimensional’ style with shingled ridge caps. Homeowners may submit an Architectural Request Form.

GAF Timberline HDZ

Style: Dimensional

Color: same as original

Ridge Cap: TimberTex premium (shingled)

5. Exterior Decorations

On page 11 of the “Declaration of Restrictions, Covenants, and Conditions” is a statement that says, "Wreaths and other holiday decorations are permitted from Thanksgiving Day through New Years Day as long as they are not permanently attached, are in good taste, and are not outlandish or so unusual as to detract from the exterior appearance."

Also on that page, "Nothing is to be attached to the grounds outside the units." This statement primarily pertains to townhomes and duplexes. This rule was made to facilitate mowing and caretaking by HOA contractor personnel of lawns and common areas.

The BOD respects and appreciates homeowners desiring to celebrate events and holidays with exterior decorations. We ask that exterior decorations (other than Thanksgiving and Christmas) be displayed no earlier than two weeks before the holiday or celebration, and be taken down within seven days after. Do not erect decorations which interfere with contactor personnel doing their jobs on lawns and common areas. Please be considerate of others with your decorations and abide by the Declarations.

6. How do I pay my monthly dues?

You may use C21 AppFolio site - the portal for Seneca Ridges’ management company, Century 21. This site provides account information, important updates & notifications from the Board, etc.

You may access or sign up for the portal at:

https://century21dalerealtyco.appfolio.com/

Select: “Make a payment” or “Set up autopay”

If you do not prefer to use the portal, you can mail a check or money order to (no fees):

Seneca Ridge Homeowners Association

360 Loucks Rd.

York, PA 17404

(Make sure your address is noted on your check!)

You may pay cash at Century 21: 360 Loucks Rd, York, PA 17404 (get a receipt)

Or send payments online from your bank account using the following information:

Payee: Seneca Ridge Homeowners Association, 360 Loucks Road, York, PA 17404
*Account Number: Your Seneca Ridge Address*

Fees for online payments are as follows:
— Credit Card: 2.99% of the total amount per transaction
— Debit Card: $9.99 per transaction

7. Pets and other animals

The Declarations state that “No animal, fowl, or other livestock shall be kept or maintained on any lot, excepting for three (3) or less domestic house pets which are not kept, bred or maintained for commercial or business uses or purposes.

8. When is trash collected? What happens on weeks with holidays?

Trash is typically collected in the community on Thursday. Holidays during the week may requires schedule changes.

a. See https://www.pennwaste.com/municipalities/springfield-township/ for residential Penn Waste costs and details on services specific to Springfield township residents.

b. Penn Waste collection on holiday weeks - Penn Waste observes the following 6 holidays:

New Year's Day, Labor Day, Independence Day, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas

If a holiday falls on a weekend, the trash/recycle collection day will not change. If the observed holiday occurs on a weekday, the collection day will be moved back one day. Therefore, since SR collection days are Thursday, collection will occur on Friday during the week of a legal Penn Waste holiday. (Place trash/recycle bins out on the curb on Thursday evening instead of Wed).

Holiday notices are posted online and in the following newspapers: York Newspaper, Harrisburg Patriot, Hanover Evening Sun and Delta Star.

Note: Trash and Recycling Bins must be stowed in the evening after Penn Waste has picked up the trash.

9. Is solicitation allowed at Seneca Ridge? (Salespeople, political candidates, etc.)

Solicitation is allowed. Seneca Ridge is NOT a closed/gated community. Springfield Township requires door-to door salespersons to register with the Township. The SR community does not have the ability or authority to restrict access. The plan of the community was designed to allow access by our neighboring communities. However, residents are not required to open their door to these individuals.

10. How do I nominate a SR owner to the HOA Board?

Complete a SR Board Nomination form which usually provided as part of the SR-HOA Annual meeting announcement (usually the 3rd Monday evening of October). Complete the nomination form as indicated - name, address, phone # of nominee. Include your information where indicated. Submit the nomination form to the management co. representative or a Board member no later than the conclusion of the meeting. If you are not planning to attend the Annual meeting or prefer to mail in your Board nomination form, complete all sections - Nominee name, address, phone number in addition to including your information, making sure it is mailed early enough to be received by the date of the annual meeting.

IMPORTANT! Before officially submitting the name of your nominee, make sure he or she agrees with the nomination and has a desire to be a Board member and serve the community!

VOTING takes place by mail and owners will be instructed to vote for a certain number of new Board members to serve a rotating 2 yr term. Therefore, you will not vote for 5 members at one time as a few Board members are simply continuing the 2nd year of their term. Each household is allowed 1 set of votes (not a vote for each household member).

Make your choice(s) and mail back your decision in the postage paid envelope provided before the due date. You may also hand deliver your vote to the management office if you think it may not be received in time to be counted. Votes are typically counted by a representative in the management office with 1 or more members of the Board or community present to validate that the count is being done accurately. This is an important quality assurance initiative to ensure a transparent process, overall, and that the count is being done impartially and fairly. Read the biographical data submitted by each new nominee and use it to make an educated decision about who you would like to represent your interests for the next 2 years! If you would like additional information about any candidate before making a final decision, communicate your questions to the management company. See the “contact us” link on the website.

11. What must I do if I’m planning to move?

In accordance with the Declaration of Restrictions, Covenants and Conditions, "Any owner desiring to sell or transfer title to his/her living unit, shall give the Board at least seven (7) days prior written notice of the name and address of the purchaser or transferee, the date of transfer of title, and other information as the Board may reasonably require" The more lead time you can provide, the better.

Insure you let the Property Management company know when you plan to move so required sales documents for the real estate agent(s) can be prepared. This will include documentation of any outstanding violations for the new owner(s).

12. What is a Resale Certificate?

A resale certificate provides specific information about the home you are buying, and its standing in the community association. This includes any monthly dues that are overdue, pending violations, unpaid violations, unpaid special assessments, and fees that are due upon closing.

13. What if I want to rent my home? What are my legal responsibilities as an owner?

When you rent your property within an HOA, you are still responsible for paying dues and ensuring the person who is leasing complies with the association’s rules and  regulations. Even if you make arrangements with a tenant to handle tasks typically taken care of by you, the owner, you are legally responsible if the tenant neglects them or doesn’t follow through. We also must be able to contact you (electronically via e-mail or by postal mail) with community updates, meeting notifications, inspection notices/violations, or n the event of an emergency.  You must complete the form: “Agreement of Method to Receive Notices” located in the “Forms” folder under the C21 Shared Drive.

Must I provide tenant information to the management company?

Yes, since the management company may need to get in touch with your tenant from  time to time, especially in an emergency. Tenant contact information and lease information must be kept updated with management so they may best serve you and your tenant’s needs.

14. In what township is Seneca Ridge located?

Seneca Ridge is in Springfield Township and is part of the Dallastown school district.

Their web site is: https://springfieldyork.org/about-us/ . The web site contains a great deal of information regarding township management, ordinances, rules, and regulations.

15. When is the annual SR Yard Sale?

The SR Board typically sponsors a community Yard Sale in May - the Saturday after Mother’s Day from 8:00 am - 3:00 pm. A sign is posted at each SR entrance in advance of the yard sale. 

If you want to conduct a Yard/Garage Sale outside of the Board-sponsored one, you may place a small sign at the entrance of Seneca Ridge to advertise where & when the Yard Sale is occurring. Please remove the sign when you are finished for the day.

16. Can I recycle my Christmas tree?

Yes. There is no fee for this service for York County residents.

Remove lights, ornaments, tinsel and protective bags from your tree. The tree can then be set out at the curb during regular trash pickup collection after removal of all items.

Another alternative is to drop the tree off at the York County Resource Recovery Center, 2651 Black Bridge Road, York, PA, 17406 in the parking lot across from the Center. Dates:  December 26 through January 31.

Monitor public announcements for any changes in these procedures.

17. How can I submit general community questions, comments, work orders, etc.?

All homeowners under C21 management have access to an online portal where they can send inquiries, architectural requests, gather information about policies & procedures for the community, send comments, and more. This is the most efficient and direct way to communicate with SR Board members. The process is as follows:

a.    Log in under: https://century21dalerealtyco.appfolio.com/

b.    Enter your login ID and Password

c.    Click on the “Resident/HOA portal” text box

d.    Links to various items of information relating to your account are provided on the left side of the page

e.    A link to “Shared documents” is there

f.     Homeowner documents are filed under specific folders on the right side of the page depending upon what kind of document, form or information you are looking for.

g.    Links are on the page to “Submit New Review” for “Architectural Review Requests” and “Maintenance Requests”. Complete any forms or documents you want to submit and provide those or any questions that you may have to the C21 Property Manager.

If you cannot find a particular document or have a particular question not addressed on the page, please call the C21 office located at 360 Loucks Rd, York, PA  17404 at: 717-843-2869 to get additional guidance or email them at pm@c21.com.

18. Receiving updates, general communications, notices from the HOA Management Co. & Board of Directors:

You can elect to have important communications, updates and/or messages about Seneca Ridge HOA delivered via postal mail or on-line (through your e-mail contact information). Make a selection by completing the “Agreement of Method to Receive Notices” (Agreement by Unit Owner of how to receive notices from Seneca Ridge Homeowners Association) located in the Century 21 AppFolio under the “Shared Documents” folder > “Forms”.

The Board of Directors will endeavor to send community newsletters on a quarterly basis to keep you informed of news and events.