FAQ

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I need to contact someone ASAP - Who can I call?
At times you need to contact the HOA immediately. If it is an emergency, call 911 or the Richland Police non-emergency number at 509-628-0333. However, if you need to contact a board member or the ACC, below are some helpful numbers.

You can call or text the current HOA President, Tony Valdez, at (509) 430-1872.

If he can't be reached, you can contact any of the below board members:
- Vice President - Bernie Beldin - (509) 713-3289
- Secretary/Treasurer - Destry Henderson (206) 963-0024
- Architectural Control Committee Chair/Coordinator Carolyn Krogness - (509) 460-1598
What do I need to do to make changes to my home?
If you are changing elements of your home like front flowerbeds, roofing, exterior paint, fencing, backyard decks, etc., an Architectural Change Request needs to be submitted. Completed forms should be emailed to applewood_hoa@hotmail.com

They can also be mailed to Applewood HOA, PO Box 2015, Richland, WA 99352, but the process may be delayed. Homeowners can also hand deliver them to 1369 Scarlet Place by putting them in the small mailbox above the doorbell. The request will be shared with the Architectural Committee for review. You may also need to obtain a permit from the City of Richland.

Additional Information:

The Architectural Committee consists of five members. Homeowners seeking to build a structure or modify their homes must submit the plans to the Committee for review and approval.

These items include the construction of new structures such as fencing, paint colors, dog runs, gazebos, landscaping, and more. Modification of the exterior consists of decks, hot tubs, patios, pools, and similar alterations. The simplest way to determine if you need ACC approval for your project is to read your copy of the covenants. They are in plain simple language without all of that legal wording.
Please do not start any outside project until you have determined whether or not ACC approval is required and, if so, such written approval has been obtained. Without approval, your investment is at risk, so remember to fill out a Project Request Form and get approval before beginning any outside project. You can find this form and all the HOA policies and guidelines by clicking the "Documents" tab.

RECENT ACC APPROVALS

House Paint (Important: please refer to house paint guidelines)

Resident Pool

Landscaping Plan (please note some trees are not allowed)

Pergola

Block Wall (6 feet in height max)

Storage Facility/Shed (Must be made of same material & color as home)

Concrete Curbing

Color of Rock

Iron Gates

Patio Extension

Concrete Slab

Hot Tub

New Driveway

Water Feature
Do I need approval to paint my home?

Yes, you do need approval. Please refer to the HOA's Painting and Color Guideline under the "Documents" tab.
Where can I find a Project Request Form?

You can find a Project Request Form by clicking the "Documents" tab.
Why are there CC&Rs rules and where can I find them?

The homeowner agrees to abide by the community’s pre-established guidelines by purchasing into a community association like Applewood Estates. Reasonable covenants and restrictions consistently enforced over time encourage design excellence, preserve aesthetic consistency, protect property values, and fosters owner pride and satisfaction. In our CC&Rs, there are some buildings and use restrictions. Your builder or Real Estate Company should have given you a copy.

For the most part, many residences comply with these covenants, but some do not. The board and the association attorney have established a procedure and fine monetary schedule for those out of compliance. Homeowners will receive warning notices before a fine is imposed. A homeowner also will have the chance to communicate with the board, and claims in dispute can be taken to binding arbitration resolution. Please keep up your property and stay in compliance to avoid reminder cards, letters, and fines.

You can find all HOA documents by clicking the Documents tab.

Thank you.
Why does Applewood have an HOA?

More good things can happen as more Americans live in privately owned communities. About one in six Americans lives in an association-managed community, according to the Community Association Institute (CAI). A homeowner association governs 4 out of 5 houses built since the late 1990s. Frank Rathbun, Spokesman for C.A.I., says most homeowners are happy with their associations.

The primary purpose of a homeowners association is to manage a neighborhood’s subdivision, such as common areas, roads, parks, and pools. Homeowners must pay dues from $100 to $10,000 annually, depending on the neighborhood and its amenities. Applewood Estates board members are volunteers, which avoids costly management fees, and their dues are very low! Annual dues for 2026 are $145.00.

Homeowners in Applewood Estates take great pride in their properties on the South end of Richland due to the desirable lifestyle and pleasant atmosphere. Let's all keep it that way!

It is the place we call home.
What is an Assessment?

An assessment is an amount that is periodically due from each homeowner to cover the operating expenses of the common areas, and insurance, and to provide reserve funds for future improvements. All homeowners are expected to pay this assessment. The annual dues are currently $125.00 per year and are due after the all-homeowner annual meeting in February.
How much are annual assessment dues?

During the February All Homeowner Annual Meeting, the homeowners vote on the budget and set the annual HOA dues. It is currently $125.00 for 2023. Statements are mailed, usually by the end of March, and due within 45 days. A late fee of $25.00 is assessed if paid late.
What do assessment fees pay for?

Like any budget, Applewood Estates' budget is designed to reflect upcoming debts such as utilities, landscaping, and administration. The Capital Reserve Fund is money for future expenses, such as new lighting, block wall repairs, and landscape improvements. A rule of thumb is that the bigger the community and more amenities, the bigger the HOA dues. Each year the homeowners vote on the upcoming budget at the annual meeting.

One good thing about a homeowner-run HOA is the absence of hired property management, which significantly increases the cost of yearly dues.
What should I do if a solicitor comes to my door?

The City of Richland licensing department requires all solicitors to have a business license to solicit products or services. City officials also require that all solicitors, upon request, produce or show the homeowner a Solicitor Card from the City of Richland. A business with a valid solicitor card ensures that all its employees soliciting products or services have been given a criminal background check by the police.

If you do not ask the solicitor and want to know more about them, obtain their company name and call the City at 942-7313 to investigate. If the company does not have a business license from the City, please call the non-emergency number at 628-0333 and ask to have the company or solicitor contacted by the police. Applewood remains a safe place to live because of alert neighbors like you!
If I am having a problem with a neighbor, what can I do?

If neighbors cannot resolve a situation between themselves, you can turn to your homeowner's association for guidance. You may contact any board member, and we can promptly assist you in addressing the problem.

Board Position #1 - Tony Valdez 1369 Scarlet Pl (509) 430-1872 applewood_hoa@hotmail.com

Board Position #2 - Bernie Beldin 469 Winesap Ct. (509) 713-3289 grandflic@gamil.com

Board Position #3 – Wright Beach 1235 Jongoald Dr. (509) 987-3687 wabeach@charter.net

Board Position #4 – Brad Wagoner 1206 Jonagold Dr. (509)627-3083 bswagon@gmail.com

Board Position #5 - Destry Henderson 1366 Fuji Way (206) 963-0024 destry.henderson@gmail.com

Architectural Review Committee (ARC) Chair/Coordinator

Carolyn Krogness 1352 Gala Way (509) 460-1598 krogness@live.com
What trees are allowed in Applewood Estates?
Any property owner seeking to plant a tree shall submit the plans to the ARC for review. In addition, property owners must provide the name of the tree and full-grown dimensions. Trees should preserve aesthetic consistency, protect property values, and foster homeowner pride and satisfaction.
Unfortunately, the HOA no longer allows two types of trees in Applewood Estates. They are:
- Weeping Willow trees - due to their damaging long shallow root system and encroachment of neighbors with excessive droppings and;
- Aspen trees - due to their fungal problems and tree suckers (shoots) that grow from the rootstock.
The ARC cautions homeowners regarding the tree's location. The ARC recommends keeping them away from the front sidewalk because the root system can cause damage to the sidewalk, and branches can obstruct the walking path. They can also drop fruit, causing a slipping hazard. In other instances, they can cause a vehicle traffic line-of-of-sight safety issue.

The HOA also recommends keeping them away from your neighbor's property line to overhang and droppings.
Can I trim my neighbor's tree/hedge that is growing over my fence?

Yes, trimming encroaching limbs is lawful in Washington, and in Applewood Estates, a homeowner can trim their neighbor's tree/hedge along the property line but must dispose of the limbs. You can't throw them back over the fence.

If you and your neighbor disagree about a problem with a tree/hedge, it’s best to resolve things together informally. You will want to check to ensure the tree/hedge is not environmentally protected and that the trimming does not result in the death of the tree/hedge.
Where Can I park my boat, trailer or motor home?

The CC&Rs do not allow these vehicles or trailers to be parked out front but the "spirit" of the covenant is to keep them from being stored there. The board's policy is to allow up to three days and if a homeowner needs a longer time - no problem! Simply email for a quick HOA variance to the CC&Rs.

Please know, we want our homeowners to enjoy their recreation vehicles but please let your HOA know if you are going to have them out front for more than three days. Thank you!
Can I park my car on the street?

Yes, please park all vehicle's right wheels to the curb (including cul-de-sacs) and please don't park your vehicle on any sidewalk or leave your vehicle on the street for more than 72 hours. The streets look cleaner and home values increase. Also, the chances of your car being prowled or damaged increase if it is parked on the road instead of in your driveway.
Can I outdoor burn at my residence?

No. Under the residential burning program, residents inside the Urban Growth Area of Benton County are not allowed to burn anything for disposal. For more information, please visit Benton Clean Air Agency and click on Burning.
Can I trap animals on my property?

This question should be relatively simple, but the answers you find are horrendously complicated. The reason is that a trespassing animal can be described as a "nuisance animal," but there are laws in Washington State regarding "nuisance wildlife."

Homeowners sometimes get confused and can get into trouble.

The same applies to the City of Richland municipal codes. The code allows someone to trap a "stray" animal but not a "domestic" animal. A stray is defined as an animal that remains in place without an apparent home - like a feral cat or raccoon. Because some animals are pets, trapping them comes with liabilities for the trapper, which everyone should try and avoid. So, the HOA's answer is no, you should not trap animals.

Applewood HOA does not have jurisdiction to enforce animals that trespass on a homeowner's property. That would fall under City Code Enforcement (509-942-7739) and Tri-City Animal Control (509-545-3740). The HOA highly recommends homeowners talk to the animal owner or contact both agencies if they have any questions.

The HOA also kindly ask that all homeowners keep a leash on dogs while walking them and cats inside.
What can I do to improve curb appeal?
Applewood “Curb Appeal”

The Tangible Livability Factor
“Curb Appeal” is the impression your home's exterior conveys to the casual observer from the street. Your home’s exterior creates an emotional desire to own a home in Applewood Estates and to live the lifestyle it represents. Maintaining your home’s curb appeal is one of the safest investments you can make.

So how can you measure your home’s curb appeal? First, stand in the street in front of your home and assess its condition and appearance. Look at your property with a critical eye. Are there any obvious distractions, such as poorly manicured lawns, debris in driveways, cluttered vehicles on the street, visible trashcans, or poor lighting?

Develop a "To-Do" list to enhance your home's image. Many of these suggestions are pretty simple. Some are more involved. Some of you may never have thought boosting your home’s curb appeal might be as simple as replacing a broken fence board or trimming bushes. To help improve your home’s curb appeal as well as the neighborhood’s attractiveness, consider the checklist below:
- Is your fence looking old? Consider staining your cedar fence.
- Avoid using the front of your home for storage.
- Do not park RVs in walkways in front of your home.
- Keep your driveway clean and clear from debris.
- Avoid parking vehicles on the street in front of your home for extended periods.
- Are your exterior lighting adequate and functioning correctly?
- Is your paint color in compliance? It should be an earth tone.
- Is your shed the same color and material as your house?
- Keep the grass cut and trimmed. Have a weed maintenance program.
- Keep overgrown trees and bushes cut back.
- Well-manicured landscaping helps boost curb appeal.
- Keeping the garage doors closed or keeping a clean garage can help.
- Remove trash cans from the street immediately and keep them out of sight.
- Consider applying a fresh layer of mulch or bark to natural areas.
- Clean all windows.
- Keep flyers off mailboxes in Applewood Estates.
- If not in use, please put all outside toys away.
- Relocate TV satellites that are visible from the street (if possible).
- Polish brass knockers, house numbers, and kick plates
- Make sure all exterior lights are in working order. Clean glass fixtures.
The look of your home starts with the neighborhood, works its way to your yard, and culminates at the front of your home. The steps that the Applewood Homeowner’s Association takes to ensure that our homes look attractive and inviting are worth the effort. Our property values are directly related to how our community looks and feels.

“Curb appeal” affects property values, and paying attention to curb appeal makes sense for Applewood Estates.
What are Bylaws?

Bylaws are the governing document for the operation of the Applewood Estates Homeowners Association. These bylaws define the duties of the various officers of the board of directors, membership voting rights, required meetings, and other specific items necessary to run the homeowners association. They can be found by clicking the Documents tab.
Are board meetings open to all residents?

Yes, the Board of Directors of Applewood Estates HOA meets on the first Thursday of each month at 6:00 P.M. at Bethel Church, 600 Shockley Rd, Richland, Washington. The board encourages homeowners who wish to attend to contact the board to confirm the meeting date, time, and location.
Does Applewood Estates have yard waste collection?

Yes, the City of Richland has added the collection of organic yard waste at the curb to essential residential garbage services. Households are provided one green yard waste can for the basic monthly fee. Additional containers are available for an extra monthly cost, with a one-year commitment, and can be requested online or by calling 942-7700.

Yard waste is collected on the same day as a garbage collection day. Containers must be placed at the curb on the regular collection day by 7 am for service.

Click HERE for more information.
Does Applewood have a Welcome Committee?

New homeowners in Applewood receive a warm welcome, including a personalized card and a thoughtful gift. Additionally, we provide them with a welcome letter that directs them to our HOA covenants on our website. To ensure we can keep them informed, we also ask them to fill out a contact card with their email address and phone number. This information is essential for timely updates and emergency communications.
Does Applewood Have Insurance?

Yes, insurance for HOAs is critical but not well understood. Most insurance policies cover the HOA from property damage within the common areas, liability should someone get injured in the common area, and Director's insurance that protects board members in the case of litigation. Applewood's common areas would include the two tracks of land between the block wall and Keene Rd, the space between the block wall and Westcliffe Blvd, the front corner sign, and all landscaped areas.

Applewood HOA Insurance

Applewood Estates uses Harvey Insurance Agency to find the best policy for the lowest cost. The HOA policy is through Philadelphia Insurance Company and covers liability and directors' insurance, not property. In 2015, the HOA dropped property insurance after developing a Capital Reserve Fund and a self-insured study that included previous property damage history and reimbursement probabilities. With that said, the HOA does not have property insurance since the HOA is self-insured for damage to our block walls, sign, and landscaping. However, we have liability and directors' insurance, which we pay yearly. You can find a copy of the HOA insurance policy by clicking HERE.
How much water does my lawn need?

With cheap irrigation water, many homes waste this natural resource by watering too much. Most lawns in Richland have a moisture-holding capacity of 1.2 to 1.5 inches of water per foot of soil. So how do you figure out how much that is?

1. Set a can or pie plate under your sprinkler when you turn it on.

2. Sprinkle until the water depth in the can or pie plate reaches 1 inch. Note how long it takes.

3. Do not sprinkle again until the top 2 or 3 inches of soil are dry to the touch.

4. Under normal conditions, you should know how long to water at a time (from step 2) and how long to wait between watering (from step 3). Remember, overwatering is not suitable for your lawn. When water is constantly available near the surface, grassroots remain short and dramatically limit their ability to withstand dry conditions, and Richland is a desert area. Plus, over-watering contributes to the groundwater level in Applewood.

If you want more information on watering (and other information such as online payments), request the “How Much to Water” brochure and free informational CD by visiting the Kennewick Irrigation District Website at http://www.kid.org/.
Is the intersection line-of-sight at both ends of Fuji Way to code?

Yes, the HOA contacted the City's Traffic Engineer, John Deskins. Here is what we learned:

1. The intersection at Westcliffe, looking west. Technically, parking is allowed on Westcliffe, meaning the city adjusted the setback (at the west curb) from 13 feet to 8 feet per their city code. Because the block wall is about 11 feet from the curb and there are no visible shrubs or trees south of the wall, this location easily meets the site distance code. We have also advised the Traffic and Street Department does expect drivers to nose out just a bit further because there is such a wide adequate shoulder.

2. At Westcliffe, looking east. The same is true for the homeowner's fence and the allowed parking. However, there are some shrubs and trees they encouraged us to keep an eye on so they are trimmed down (for the shrubs) and trees (trimmed up) as much as possible to help mitigate the pole, which they advised is allowed per city code.

3. At Shockley, looking west and because of the turn lane, there is no parking allowed on Shockley, and they use the 13-foot setback (on the west curb). The HOA owns some shrubs and trees, and their advice was the same as above.

This information confirmed those intersections are to code and that we have not had any accidents at their locations since they were developed. As always, we can continue to educate our homeowners to make them aware the HOA can't force others to slow down and that they should always use caution with pulling out onto these streets.
Is there a recycle program in Applewood Estates?

Yes, the City of Richland provides residential recycling. Residents can recycle at the curb for a fee, and the local area drop boxes are free. If you have recycling questions or want to sign up for curbside service, call the city at 942-7700.

Recycling at the curb is easy. The city provides you with one container to collect all recyclables (except glass) and picks them up from the curb every other week. Learn more about curbside recycling.
When is garbage collection day?

City crews pick up the garbage and yard waste cans every Tuesday year-round. The only exception to the schedule is Christmas Day. If Tuesday falls on Christmas, your trash will be picked up the following day. All other collections that week will be one day later than usual. For questions concerning your garbage collection service, please call the city at 942-7700.

Please put your cans out the night before and have them put away by Tuesday evening. Be sure to bag all debris and secure it with a tie. On windy days, unsecured materials blow out cans when the truck lifts and dumps them.

2025 Curbside Collection Schedule
How soon can I put my garbage, yard waste, and recycle containers out on the street?

Containers should not be put out earlier than 12:00 pm the day before the pick-up date and should be put away no later than 6:00 pm the day of pick-up. All containers should be adequately screened or stored out of sight and not be viewable from the street (i.e., stored in a garage or shed or behind a fence or wall). Containers observed in the street, on driveways or sidewalks, or in front of a fence or wall after 12:00 pm the day after the pick-up date will constitute a notice of violation.
What do I do if my garbage container is missing?

Missing garbage containers can happen due to high winds on garbage day. Homeowners who have lost their containers should check with neighbors first and then call the City of Richland at 942-7490 to get the serial number of their containers.

Containers can travel quite some distance when strong winds blow. If the container cannot be located, the homeowner is responsible for paying the $50.00 replacement fee to the City.

We recommend painting or marking your address on the underside of the lid (not on the outside), as this helps for quick identification.
What common area does Applewood HOA maintain?
One responsibility of the Applewood Estates Homeowner’s Association is maintaining the common areas in our subdivision. Applewood Estates' common areas are:
- A tract of land at the west entrance of our subdivision along Shockley Road and Keene Road. Approximately 1,500 square feet of grass, 12 trees, and 126 bushes exist. Our lawn maintenance company works hard to keep it looking nice.
- Two tracts of land on the north side of Applewood Estates along Keene Road between Shockley Road and the dentist's office property. The Benton County Assessor's website will show the following:
  - Tract #1 - 127981020007000 72,314 square feet (1.660 acres) and
  - Tract #2 - 127981030010000 28,488 square feet (.653 acres) for 100,802 square feet (2.313 acres) of land.
- The HOA maintains that area by keeping the weeds cut down and sprayed.
- A tract of land along the south block wall along Westcliffe Blvd. The HOA maintains that area by keeping the weeds out of the rocks.
What do I do if my sidewalk is sinking?

Below is more information regarding the city policy.

If the City of Richland receives a report that a sidewalk has heaved or settled and is creating a tripping hazard, they will send the homeowner a letter requiring them to fix the sidewalk. City policy states that sidewalk deviations exceeding one-half inch (1/2-inch) height must be repaired. Per the Richland Municipal Code, the adjoining property owner is responsible for making the necessary repairs and keeping the sidewalk safe.

Before construction, it will be necessary for either the property owner or the contractor to obtain a “no-cost” construction permit. After the work has been completed, inspected, and paid for, the City may reimburse the property owner up to 25% of the repair cost incurred, subject to the availability of the City’s budget. The property owner is responsible for submitting proper documentation for reimbursement.

If you have any questions regarding this information, don't hesitate to contact Mr. Chad Boothe with the City of Richland at 942-7424. If your driveway is sinking, you must contact your home builder and take that matter up with them—the same thing to any other items that are sinking like a telephone or electrical box. You would need to contact that company.
What elementary school do children in Applewood Estates attend?

Applewood Estates has a neighborhood elementary school! Below are the schools that are in Applewood's boundary.

Orchard Elementary School

Leona Libby Middle School

Richland High School

Richland School District
What is the speed limit in Applewood Estates?

The speed limit in Applewood is 25 mph. Children don’t always remember to watch for cars when crossing the street so we ask homeowners to drive 20 mph and stay alert.
When does the City sweep the street gutters?

City crews sweep Applewood Estates neighborhood on Wednesday mornings. You may find more information HERE.
Who is responsible for removing snow from the sidewalk?

Homeowners are responsible for snow and ice control on the sidewalk in front of their homes. If you need help with your sidewalk or removing snow from the front of your driveway after the city plows, don't hesitate to contact the HOA, and we can gather some homeowners to help. If you use a snow or leaf blower to blow off the snow from your driveway or sidewalk, please be considerate of your neighbors and do not start until after 7:00 am.

As For The City: Richland street maintenance crews apply anti-icing chemicals to the arterials and collector streets when it snows. Their priority list is:

Priority 1 - Main arterial streets

Priority 2 – School zones/Collector streets

Priority 3 - High priority steep streets

Followed by remaining residential streets

Please remember that the National Safety Council estimates that falls due to occupational or ice cause more than 1500 deaths per year and approximately 300,000 injuries. Please help keep our community safe by clearing your sidewalks of snow and ice when it snows.
When is the Annual Homeowners Association Meeting?

The homeowners' annual meeting is held in the first quarter of each year. The meeting is typically held in February. All homeowners are notified well in advance of the location and time.
Who administers the Applewood HOA website?

Homeowner Tony Valdez and the HOA Sites, a company web designer, and developer. They both manage this site for the Applewood Estates Homeowners Association. If you have questions, comments, or suggestions for improvements - or would like a website like this for your organization, shoot us an email at applewood_hoa@hotmail.com.
Who operates the Homeowners Association?

Applewood Estates HOA is led by a board of directors elected by the homeowners. The board consists of fellow homeowners with interest in keeping the neighborhood strong. For a current list of the HOA board and Committee member contact list, you can request one by sending us an email at applewood_hoa@hotmail.com
Who handles the money for the HOA?

The fiduciary experience by HOA board members and community volunteers can vary widely. This is why Applewood Estates hired Summ-it Bookkeeping Services years ago. The firm handles our financial services, including all accounting, tax preparation, and billing/collection of all assessment dues. This way, no money goes through homeowners and is handled professionally by following the HOA by-laws, accounting practices, and Washington State law.
Who owns the perimeter block walls around Applewood Estates?

There was discussion and questions regarding block walls in Applewood at the annual meeting so the HOA would like to give some history and information on them.

The perimeter block walls that run along Shockley Rd, Keene Rd, the east side, and Westcliffe Blvd are owned by the HOA. They are all built on the HOA common area land - just off the homeowner's property lines.

The developer put in Shockley, Keene, and the east side block walls in during the initial Phase #1 building of the development and the HOA put in the Westcliffe Blvd block wall in 2012 after the HOA settled a lawsuit with the City.

Back Story:

In 2007, the city changed the land use just east of Applewood Estates, allowing a dentist's office to be built. Back then, the HOA Board and homeowners had not determined who owned the block wall and some homeowners obtained permission from the city to add blocks to their portion to shield their back yard from that commercial property.

Fast forward to 2013, the HOA board hired Capital Reserve Consultants, LLC out of Oregon to complete a Level 1 Capital Reserve Study and, later in 2016, a Level 3 study. This is where the HOA learned the block walls were not owned by the individual homeowners but by the HOA.

Moving Forward Now:

At the annual meeting in 2021, homeowners discussed helping those who lived along Keene Rd raise the block wall for numerous reasons, including dust, noise, and, most important - safety.

It was clear that all Applewood homeowners would not have enough support for the HOA to spend $40,000 plus to raise the entire wall length. So, during the 2021 annual meeting, the homeowners agreed to have the HOA Board look into obtaining a city variant to allow those homeowners to raise their portion of the wall at their own cost.

After the annual meeting, the Board voted and approved spending $440 and applied for a city variance for those homeowners. The variance was submitted and approved.

Since then, some homeowners have paid for and added blocks to the HOA block wall. The HOA still owns the block wall, with some additional blocks added by individual homeowners. If something happened to the block wall, the HOA would restore it "as is" to include the homeowner's additional blocks.

You can read and learn more by looking at the Capital Reserve Study by clicking HERE.
What are the policies for holiday decorations, including lights, yard inflatables, and other exterior decorations?

Applewood HOA does have a holiday decoration guideline that can be found under the "Documents" tab.