HOA Homefront: Can a resident keep their changes made to an exclusive-use area?

Q: Many years ago, I was allowed by the board to raise the height of my deck. I paid for the architectural change. No board member or manager since has ever inquired about it. Most people don’t even see the change. So, do I have legal standing to keep my patio the way it is or at some time could I be forced to put it back the way it was originally built? — J.H., Huntington Beach
A: When you modify an exclusive-use common area, it is still not owned by you. Common areas are norma