The Washington Uniform Common Interest Homeownership Act replaces previous homeowner acts, changing how homeowner and condo owner associations govern their communities. Some community management companies will help Boards transition to full compliance. Here is more information on what residential communities need to know about WUCIOA:
WUCIOA Act Applicability and Timeline
While previously applying only to communities formed after July 1, 2018, WUCIOA now applies to all common interest communities organized at any time. It establishes a legal framework to protect homeowners’ rights and provide additional fairness and accountability. Unless the law says otherwise, communities are required to follow WUCIOA over their governing documents. Becoming compliant may require making adjustments to the documents. On January 1, 2026, key requirements of the Act became applicable to all residential communities. On January 1, 2028, communities will be required to fully comply with the act, and legacy statutes will no longer apply. The transitional phase allows communities to make changes as needed.
Homeowner Meetings and Participation Requirements
The new homeownership act helps prioritize homeowner participation. All Board and committee meetings regarding community decisions are opened to the community. The act requires the Board to set aside at least 15 minutes at the beginning of the meeting for homeowners to discuss agenda items. Knowing about this requirement and agenda meetings ahead of time allows residents to prepare to comment.
Instead of requiring physical attendance at a meeting, Boards can host virtual gatherings. This allows for additional participation by making it easier for homebound or traveling residents to join the meeting. It also helps simplify the process for smaller communities that do not have a dedicated meeting space. The act requires that these meetings be held through real-time platforms. Some community association management companies offer virtual meeting setup services to increase accessibility.
Meeting Notices and Minutes
A management company is able to provide templates for agendas. Associations are required to provide at least 14 days’ notice before a meeting. The notice should include all relevant information, including the:
- Meeting time
- Date
- Location
- Virtual meeting links
The act helps promote accountability between the Board and homeowners. It provides a timeline for homeowners to contest Board decisions made during meetings. Homeowners have 90 days after the meeting minutes have been published to file legal challenges; this encourages Boards to make the minutes available as soon as possible. To comply, the Board can set up a minute approval process.
EV Charging and Heat Pumps
Under WUCIOA, the Board is not allowed to establish rules that prohibit the installation of electric vehicle charging stations or heat pumps. EV chargers and heat pumps offer sustainable options, as heat pumps may help reduce carbon emissions. Any blanket bans that have been set in place are no longer allowed.
The Board may establish guidelines for installation for safety requirements and require homeowners to submit an application. If there is no formal application process in place, the Board should set a required timeframe for sending them. The Board is expected to permit the installation of an EV station or heat pump if installation is feasible and the homeowner agrees to comply with all requirements, such as using a professional contractor for the installation process.
Free Assessment Payment Methods
The law requires that the Board offer at least one type of no-fee assessment payment option. Available options include mailed checks, in-person payments, and online platforms without service fees. Offering free payment options makes it easier for homeowners to pay assessments on time, which can help prevent compliance issues and delays within the community. To check compliance, the Board should review its current payment methods. Some community association management companies offer free payment options for residents. Associations should also inform residents of the available payment methods by offering clear instructions or providing a web portal.
Find a Community Management Company
Understanding the timeline and legal requirements of the new act helps prevent legal penalties. A community management company is able to review an association’s current systems; this allows a company to help your association make any necessary adjustments. Making changes includes educating association members about the act and updating the governing documents. To receive advice on how to comply with WUCIOA, find a community association management company today.
