Michigan HOA Special Assessment Rules (2026)
M.C.L. § 559.101 (Michigan 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 Michigan 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 as authorized by the condominium documents; no statewide cap.
Not required by statute
Trigger: Only if required by the community's condominium documents or bylaws
10 days
Advance written notice to members before assessment levy
Available
Emergency assessments may be levied for imminent threats to common property or safety without standard notice.
- Board authority controlled by condominium documents and bylaws
- No statewide cap on special assessment amounts
- 10-day advance notice to unit owners is standard
- Emergency assessments may bypass standard notice
- LARA oversees certain Michigan condominium disputes
Michigan condo unit owners may use the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) for certain disputes. Formal disputes may be escalated to Michigan courts.
Pending special assessments should be disclosed in resale documents. Lenders review for large pending assessments during underwriting.
Managing a Michigan HOA? Try LotWize free.
LotWize helps self-managed HOA boards in Michigan track reserve funding, plan budgets, issue violation notices, and communicate with homeowners — all in one place. Reduce the risk of surprise special assessments with built-in reserve health tracking.
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.