Texas Real Estate Brokerage Sales Apprentice Education (SAE) Practice Exam

What type of roof can void a deed restriction on residential property?

1. Metal Roof

2. Wood Single Roof

3. Tiled Roof

4. Flat Roof

The correct answer is: Wood Single Roof

A wood shingle roof can potentially void a deed restriction on residential property because many neighborhoods have specific guidelines regarding the types of materials and roof styles that are permissible. These restrictions are often established in the interest of maintaining aesthetic consistency and property values within the community. If a residential property were to use a wood shingle roof and this was not in accordance with the existing deed restrictions set forth by a homeowners' association (HOA) or the developer’s guidelines, it could prompt enforcement action, as these restrictions are there to protect the character of the neighborhood. Consequently, installing an unapproved roof type, such as wood shingles in a community that has restrictions against it, could be grounds for a legal challenge or a demand to revert to compliant materials, thereby "voiding" the allowance for the non-conforming roof. In contrast, other materials listed, like metal, tiled, or flat roofs, may or may not conflict with deed restrictions, depending on the specific requirements and allowances stated in those restrictions. Standard practices often allow more flexibility or acceptance of those materials in various neighborhoods, minimizing the risk of rule violations compared to potentially more controversial choices like wood shingles.