Connecticut HOA Special Assessment Rules (2026)
Conn. Gen. Stat. § 47-261b (Common Interest Ownership Act) · Last reviewed 2026
A special assessment is a one-time charge levied by an HOA board to cover an unexpected or deferred expense not covered by the operating budget or reserve fund. Below are the key rules that govern how Connecticut HOAs may levy special assessments and what rights homeowners have.
Key facts at a glance
Can levy without member vote
Board may levy special assessments for common expenses as authorized by the declaration. Connecticut's 2022 legislation limits the use of special assessments as a substitute for adequate reserve funding in certain condominium communities.
Not required by statute
Trigger: Only if required by the community's declaration or bylaws
10 days
Advance written notice to members before assessment levy
Available
Board may levy emergency assessments for imminent threats to common property without standard notice.
- Board may levy special assessments as authorized by the declaration
- 2022 law requires condos with 5+ units to conduct reserve studies
- Special assessments may not be used as a substitute for adequate reserve funding
- 10-day advance notice to members is standard practice
- Homeowners may dispute through governing document procedures
Homeowners may challenge assessments at a board meeting or through the dispute resolution procedures in the governing documents. Connecticut courts have jurisdiction for unresolved disputes.
Connecticut's 2022 legislation (PA 22-139) requires condominiums with 5 or more units to conduct reserve studies and develop adequate reserve funding plans. Special assessments may not be used as a recurring substitute for maintaining a funded reserve.
Pending special assessments must be disclosed in the resale package. Lenders review reserve fund adequacy following the 2022 law changes.
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Start 14-Day Free TrialThis page provides general legal information only — not legal advice. HOA special assessment laws vary by community type (planned community, condominium, cooperative, etc.) and are subject to change. The information on this page is based on statutes in effect as of 2026 and may not reflect recent legislative changes. Always consult a licensed HOA attorney and review your governing documents before taking action.