The Washington Uniform Common Interest Homeownership Act (WUCIOA) took effect in 2018. It applies to homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and condominium owners’ associations (COAs) in Washington. The act standardizes how common interest communities are created and operated. An association management company can help HOAs and COAs revise their governing documents; this helps make sure they comply with the act. Here are a few common WUCIOA questions:
What Associations Does WUCIOA Apply To?
WUCIOA began on July 1, 2018, and it originally applied to common interest communities created on or after that date. Some key provisions became applicable to all HOAs and COAs on January 1, 2026, including updates on how to conduct meetings. With the passing of Senate Bill 5129, WUCIOA will apply to all HOAs and COAs in Washington beginning January 1, 2028. This includes communities created before 2018. Pre-WUCIOA communities will need to review their current practices and adjust them to align with the act.
What Are the Board’s Responsibilities?
HOA and COA boards have new responsibilities under WUCIOA. They must allow homeowners to attend all board and committee meetings; the only exception is executive sessions. Boards that previously held meetings privately will need to update their policies and inform homeowners. WUCIOA also requires boards to notify homeowners of any meetings at least 14 days in advance. If an emergency meeting is required, boards must notify homeowners at least seven days before the scheduled date.
Keeping accurate minutes of board meetings provides transparency for homeowners who are unable to attend in person. Those who are able to attend can do so in person or virtually. Boards must set aside 15 minutes at the beginning of meetings for homeowners; this lets them voice questions or concerns about agenda items. An association management company helps boards create compliant records and processes. Boards should maintain accurate:
- Budgets
- Meeting agendas
- Architectural review applications
- Assessment records
- Document amendments
- Financial statements
- Reserve funding records
What Rights Do Homeowners Have?
The changes made from WUCIOA help support homeowners’ rights. It provides residents with greater clarity on board decisions, such as where assessments are used. Homeowners can be more involved in community decisions and receive regular updates on policy changes and proposed projects. WUCIOA provides information on homeowners’ rights on items like:
- Payment Options: Boards need to offer homeowners at least one payment option that doesn’t require a fee. Some options include paying in-person or mailing in a check.
- EV Stations: Homeowners cannot be unreasonably prevented from installing electric vehicle charging stations. They won’t need to pay a fee to install the stations.
- Heat Pumps: Boards also can’t prohibit homeowners from using or installing heat pumps in their units. Some requirements do apply to verify the pump is correctly installed, such as adhering to architectural standards.
Learn More About WUCIOA
WUCIOA provides a unified structure for all common interest communities, so they have consistent and efficient procedures. It also helps associations create clear financial systems for enhanced accountability. Navigating the changes involves transparent communication between board members and homeowners. An association management company can help boards review governing documents, formalize meetings, and update application procedures. Contact a management team today to learn more about the Washington Uniform Common Interest Homeownership Act.