Massachusetts HOA Special Assessment Rules (2026)
Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 183A (Massachusetts Condominium 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 Massachusetts HOAs may levy special assessments and what rights homeowners have.
Key facts at a glance
Can levy without member vote
Board of trustees may levy special assessments as authorized by the master deed and bylaws; no statewide dollar cap.
Not required by statute
Trigger: Only if required by the community's master deed or bylaws
14 days
Advance written notice to members before assessment levy
Available
Board of trustees may levy emergency assessments for imminent threats without standard notice.
- Board of trustees may levy special assessments as authorized by the master deed
- 14-day advance notice to unit owners is standard practice
- No statewide cap — master deed or bylaws control
- Emergency assessments may bypass standard notice
- 6(d) certificate must disclose all pending special assessments
Massachusetts condo unit owners may file a complaint with the Attorney General's office for certain violations. Disputes may be escalated to the Housing Court.
Pending special assessments must be disclosed in the resale package (6(d) certificate). FHA and Fannie Mae review active assessments for Massachusetts condo loan approvals.
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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.