10 Condo Rules That Surprise Buyers (and some Sellers)
Condo living in Arlington offers convenience, amenities, and community. But it also comes with rules — some expected, some not. Buyers often assume condos are just like any other property, only with shared spaces. Sellers may forget the fine print, too. The truth is that condo associations have detailed bylaws, and some of them can be surprising.
Here are ten rules that catch Arlington condo buyers (and sometimes sellers) off guard:
1. Pet Restrictions
Not every building is pet-friendly. Some limit the number, size, or breed of dogs. Others only allow cats. Buyers with pets should always confirm the rules before making an offer. And here is another tip – sometimes the rules change. Don’t always assume that since you saw an owner with a 70 lb lab, that your 60 lb bulldog is fine. The board might have passed a resolution to lower the weight limit to 40 lbs, but grandfathered in all existing owners & their pets. Always check to see what is actually in the condo docs and pay attention to any resolutions.
2. Rental Policies
Thinking about renting your condo someday? Associations sometimes set strict limits. Some buildings cap the total number of units that can be rented at one time. Most buildings require a minimum lease term, usually 6 or 12 months. AirBnB and VRBO? In just about every building in Arlington, those are prohibited.
3. Balcony & Outdoor Space Rules
Your balcony may not be as private as you think. Restrictions often cover grilling, furniture, storage, and even how long holiday decorations can stay up. A balcony or patio is considered a ‘limited common element’ restricted to the owner of the attached unit. Open flame grills (gas or charcoal) are not allowed, but electric grills are.
4. Parking & Storage Limits
Parking spaces can be deeded, assigned, or restricted from being rented or sold separately. Storage units may come with size limits and rules on what you can store. Don’t forget to look at the parking space to make sure your car can fit. Some newer buildings with ‘compact’ spaces can be really tight.
5. Renovation Approvals
Buyers often assume they can renovate as they wish after closing. Not so fast. Many associations require approval for flooring changes, wall removals, or even replacing windows. Work hours are restricted — no construction noise before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. Contractors may need to be licensed, insured, and approved by the association. An owner basically owns ‘inside the four walls’ of the condo, but always get board approval first. The association is mainly concerned about the removal of structural walls, overloading the electrical panel, or changes in plumbing that can effect other units.
6. Lifestyle Restrictions
There are “quality of life” rules that can take buyers by surprise. Most have smoking bans in common areas — and in some buildings, even inside your own unit. Limits on musical instruments, parties, or noise after certain hours. And don’t forget the rules about how you move in and out — including reserving the freight elevator and paying move-in/move-out fees. Some buildings do not allow weekend moves or charge double.
7. Flooring Requirements
Some buildings mandate carpet in bedrooms to reduce noise. Others require specific soundproofing under hardwood or tile floors. Don’t think nobody will notice – when you go to sell, the manager will do a walk through inspection to make sure all modifications were approved. You don’t want a condo violation to hold up your sale.
8. Window & Exterior Uniformity
Uniformity rules can dictate what’s visible from outside. Only white or off-white blinds, no flags or banners, and strict balcony appearance guidelines are common.
9. Vehicle Rules
Parking garages may prohibit oversized SUVs, pickup trucks, or commercial vans. Washing or repairing your car on the property is usually not allowed.
10. Administrative & Occupancy Rules
Associations may fine owners for late condo fee payments after just a few days. Some require copies of leases and tenant contact info. A few even impose occupancy limits stricter than county code.
Why These Rules Matter
For buyers: Surprises can derail a purchase if the rules don’t fit your lifestyle. For sellers: Buyers often back out when unexpected restrictions appear in the resale package.
Bottom line: Condo rules protect the community, but they can also limit what you can do. Whether you’re buying or selling, understanding the fine print is key to a smooth transaction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Arlington condos ban pets?
Yes. Each condo association sets its own pet policy. Some allow cats only, others limit the number or size of dogs, and some ban pets altogether. Always confirm before making an offer.
Are AirBnB or VRBO rentals allowed in Arlington condos?
Almost never. Most associations ban short-term rentals to protect building security and maintain owner-occupancy ratios.
Can condos really tell me what kind of flooring or blinds I can have?
Yes. To maintain noise control and building uniformity, associations often regulate flooring materials and require specific window coverings visible from the outside.
What fees should I expect when moving in or out?
Most buildings charge move-in and move-out fees, require advance elevator reservations, and may limit move times to weekdays during business hours.
Can condo associations fine owners?
Yes. Late condo fee payments, rule violations, or unauthorized renovations can trigger fines, often starting after just a few days.
