Frequently Asked Questions

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Answers

1.      If I do not qualify for the Sound Insulation Option, which options do I qualify for?

All residents in North Hollow qualify for: Sales Assurance option, Transaction Assistance option and the Avigation Easement Purchase.  Residents that own vacant parcels of land within North Hollow qualify for the Purchase of Development Rights option only for those vacant parcels.

2.      Will I incur any costs by participating in the Program?

There is no cost to the homeowner to participate in the Program other than the following pertaining to the Sound Insulation option:
  • Window dressings - It is the homeowner’s responsibility to remove all curtains, blinds, brackets, etc. before and after installation of all windows and doors. Due to the width of the new windows (approximately 3.5"), the existing blinds may not fit with the new window installation. If replacement of the blinds are necessary, the cost for that will be the homeowner's responsibility.
  • Security devices - The cost to disconnect security devices from windows and doors,  both before and after construction, is the homeowner’s responsibility.
  • Deficiencies (pre-work) that would prevent the installation of sound treatment, including electrical violations and major structural issues

3.      I recently installed new windows and doors.  Will the program reimburse me for these improvements?

Improvements completed prior to participating in the program are not eligible for reimbursement.

4.      Can I change the style of my windows?

It is the programs policy to attempt to match existing window styles and operations.  Homeowners will have the opportunity to select colors and grid patterns. 

5.      Can I select the product manufacturers?

As a federally funded project, homeowners are not allowed to select product manufacturers.  The products used in the program must meet required performance specification.  Many products used (in particular, the windows and doors) must be tested against sited standards and come with warranties that meet the program requirements.   

6.     How much of a decrease in noise can I expect from the sound insulation option?  

The goal is to reduce interior noise levels by at least five decibels and below DNL 45 dB altogether.  This is a significant reduction when you realize the human ear can perceive a change in noise level as low as three decibels.

7.      Why do I have to sign an Avigation Easement to participate in the program?

The Houston Airport System (HAS) requires all program participants to grant an easement to promote land use compatibility for the properties surrounding the airport and to protect their interest for offering the program.  Under Article 3, Section 52 of the Texas Constitution, it is illegal for a political subdivision of the State to “lend its credit or grant public money…to any individual…”.  Consequently, in order for the City of Houston to provide funding for the noise program, it must receive something in return.  In this case, an avigation easement. Without such consideration, the City would be unable to fund the program because it would be considered to be giving away public funds which is prohibited under the above cited Article. 

8.      What is an Avigation Easement and how is it different from an Avigation Easement Purchase?

An avigation easement allows the use of the airspace above a property.  A homeowner eligible for and participating in either the sound insulation option, sales assurance option, transaction assistance option or the purchase of development rights option must execute an avigation easement with HAS prior to being accepted for that option in order to comply with state law. 

A homeowner who is not eligible for sound insulation and does not wish to participate in any of the other options listed above, may opt for an Avigation Easement Purchase.  This is a one time payment to the homeowner by HAS in return for an avigation easement as described above.  This payment or purchase price is determined by an appraisal conducted by a certified appraiser and becomes a set value for all the homes in the North Hollow Subdivision that participate in this option.  

9.      How long does it take to get the money with the Avigation Easement Purchase Option?

The process of receiving a check for the Avigation Easement Option could take anywhere from 2 to 12 months depending on results of the title search, any back taxes that may be owed on the property, court judgements that may need to be settled or any other unforeseen actions that might arise.  HAS will make every attempt to expedite the process and provide a timely payment to the homeowner. 

10.      How is the Fair Market Value determined on the Sales Assurance Option?

The homeowner can either choose an appraiser from a list of pre-qualified appraisers prepared by HAS or select their own appraiser that meets the qualifications of the Texas Appraiser Licensing and Certification Board. The program will have that appraisal reviewed under the same guidelines. The approved appraisal amount will be the Fair Market Value.  

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