Washington HOA Special Assessment Rules (2026)
RCW 64.90.525 (Washington Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act — WUCIOA) · 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 Washington 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 declaration under WUCIOA. Member vote may be required for large assessments depending on the governing documents.
Not required by statute
Trigger: Only if the declaration or bylaws require a member vote for assessments above a specified threshold
14 days
Advance written notice to members before assessment levy
Available
Board may levy emergency assessments for imminent threats to property or safety without standard notice.
- Board authority to levy is set by the declaration under WUCIOA
- Member vote required only if declaration or bylaws specify a threshold
- 14-day advance written notice to members required
- Emergency assessments may bypass standard notice
- WUCIOA provides member rights to review financial records and challenge assessments
Washington homeowners may use the HOA dispute resolution process. WUCIOA provides specific member rights including access to financial records and the right to challenge assessments.
Pending special assessments must be disclosed in the resale disclosure certificate. Fannie Mae and FHA review active assessments for Washington 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.