Are There Covenants and Design Rules You Need to Know About?

February 3, 2026

If you’re looking to build in a new subdivision or development, you may be wondering: “Are there covenants or design rules I need to follow?”

The short answer is yes – but the good news is that these rules are completely normal, and we guide you through every step of the process.

In this article, we break down what covenants are, why they exist, and how Today Homes ensures your new home meets all requirements before construction begins.

What Are Covenants and Why Do They Exist?

Covenants and design rules are guidelines set by developers to maintain a consistent standard of quality across the entire neighbourhood. They help ensure:

  • Homes are built to a high standard
  • Streetscapes look cohesive
  • Property values are protected long-term

These rules apply to every purchaser and every builder working within the development – it’s part of creating a well-planned, visually appealing community.

Every Development Has Different Requirements

It’s important to know that not all developments have the same covenants. Requirements can vary depending on:

  • The subdivision
  • The developer
  • The intended style or quality level of the neighbourhood

This is why reviewing these rules early in the process is essential.

We Ensure Your Home Meets All Covenant Requirements

You don’t need to worry about interpreting covenants on your own – we handle this for you.

From the very beginning, our team:

  • Reviews the covenants for your chosen section
  • Designs your home to meet all design rules and specifications
  • Ensures materials, cladding, rooflines, and colours align with the developer’s guidelines

We’ll only present home designs that comply, so you can move forward confidently.

Choosing Colours and Finishes: We Guide You Through It

Once your plan is confirmed, you’ll begin the exciting part: selecting colours, finishes, and materials.

During this stage:

  • We take you through all your interior and exterior options
  • You choose the look and feel of your new home
  • We package your selections and submit them to the developer

This ensures your home’s design is fully approved before any work begins on site.

Developer Approval Before Construction Starts

After your colours and materials are confirmed, we formally submit everything to the developer. They will review your plans and selections to ensure they meet the covenant requirements.

Once approval is received, we’re ready to start building.

Final Thoughts: Covenants Protect Your Home and Your Investment

While covenants may feel like an extra layer of rules, they ultimately work in your favour. They ensure that every home in your neighbourhood is built to a similar standard – protecting your investment and contributing to a high-quality, consistent community.

And with Today Homes, you never have to navigate this process alone. We manage all covenant checks, approvals, and submissions from start to finish.