A newly built home will typically not have its own mailbox, but rather a grouped or cluster of mailboxes for the same postal code or zip code. It is common in many new subdivisions, and it’s made the job of mail delivery personnel very easy.
So, if you’ve recently purchased a new home but do not have a mailbox on the property, you now know why. The only time a mail delivery personnel would visit your property for delivery is when you have a package or a signature required delivery item.
In many new subdivisions and planned communities, the use of cluster mailboxes is a common practice. Cluster mailboxes, also known as centralized mailboxes or community mailboxes, are designed to serve multiple residences in a single location rather than having individual mailboxes at each home.
If you’re planning on installing mailboxes in your subdivision, you can purchase USPS approved cluster mailboxes as well. In Canada, you can get details on your community mailbox through the Canada Post website.
In our view, these are some reasons why we have cluster mailboxes in new subdivisions around the city:
Table of Contents
Efficiency and Space Considerations
Cluster mailboxes are often implemented for efficiency and space considerations. They help postal workers deliver mail more efficiently by having a centralized location for multiple homes, especially in densely populated areas.
Homeowner’s Association (HOA) Guidelines
In many planned communities, the installation and maintenance of cluster mailboxes are regulated by the homeowner’s association (HOA). HOA guidelines may specify the type, design, and location of cluster mailboxes within the community.
Security and Accessibility
Cluster mailboxes are designed to enhance security, as they are often equipped with secure compartments for each resident’s mail. Additionally, they provide a convenient and easily accessible location for residents to retrieve their mail.
Postal Service Approval
The installation of cluster mailboxes typically requires approval from the postal service such as CP or USPS. Builders and developers work with the postal service to ensure that the placement and design of the cluster mailboxes meet postal regulations.
Uniformity in Design
To maintain a cohesive aesthetic within the community, cluster mailboxes are often designed to be uniform in appearance. This helps create a consistent look and feel throughout the neighborhood.
Installation Timing
Cluster mailboxes are usually installed during the construction phase of the community. This allows them to be in place and operational when residents move in.
Digital Notification Systems
Some cluster mailboxes come with features such as parcel lockers and notification systems to alert residents when they have packages or larger mail items to pick up.
When purchasing a home in a new subdivision with cluster mailboxes, it’s essential for homebuyers to be aware of the location of the mailbox cluster, understand how it operates, and familiarize themselves with any guidelines or regulations set forth by the homeowner’s association or the local postal service.
In addition, to obtain the key for the postal mailbox; homeowners may need to visit the local post office. The post office will advise the homeowner on the location of the cluster mailbox.
Keep in mind that during the home construction and street paving period, it is normal for the cluster mailboxes to be moved around.