WUCIOA Explained: What It Means for Washington HOAs
The Washington Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act (WUCIOA) is a major shift in how HOAs and condo associations are governed across the state. It creates consistency and accountability—but also complexity.
At AmLo Management, we help communities across King and Snohomish Counties stay compliant, reduce risk, and strengthen their operations.
What Is WUCIOA?
WUCIOA (RCW 64.90) is a state law that sets modern rules for homeowners associations, condos, and co-ops. It was enacted on July 1, 2018, replacing older laws like:
Instead of using outdated rules, WUCIOA creates one modern law for all new common interest communities in Washington.
It’s based on a national model called UCIOA, which several other states—including Colorado, Vermont, and Nevada—have adopted to improve association governance.
When WUCIOA Applies to Your Association
WUCIOA doesn’t apply to everyone yet—but it will soon.
Mandatory WUCIOA (Automatically Applies)
Communities created on or after July 1, 2018
All new HOAs, condos, and co-ops in Washington State
Optional WUCIOA (By Vote)
Older communities (before July 1, 2018) can opt in by 67% vote of owners
Partial WUCIOA (Mandatory by Law in Stages)
Even if your association doesn’t opt in, key parts will become mandatory:
By January 1, 2026: Budget ratification and reserve study rules
By January 1, 2028: More rules on open meetings, disclosures, and governance
⚠️ Ignoring these deadlines could put your community at legal and financial risk.
Key Requirements Under WUCIOA
WUCIOA emphasizes owner rights, financial transparency, and consistent rules. Here’s a breakdown:
Governance Requirements
Open board meetings with owner comment periods
Proper meeting notices
Access to association records and financials
Financial Oversight
Annual budget ratification with proper notice and owner meeting
Reserve studies every 3 years, with annual updates
Clear reserve account disclosures and use rules
Updated Governing Documents
New communities must adopt WUCIOA-standard declarations and bylaws
Existing ones must modernize if they opt in or when mandates kick in
AmLo can help your board rewrite outdated documents, facilitate owner votes, and align your operations with these standards.
Other States are Modernizing Too
Washington isn’t alone. States across the country are adopting UCIOA-style reforms to improve HOA/condo transparency and oversight:
Colorado has comprehensive UCIOA laws and strict HOA accountability
Connecticut was an early adopter with full implementation
Nevada increased owner protections after scandals
Alaska, North Carolina, and Vermont have also modernized governance
This isn’t just a trend—it’s the new standard. If your community isn't preparing now, you risk being left behind.
How AmLo Helps with WUCIOA Compliance
You don’t have to face WUCIOA alone. AmLo Management provides:
✅ Document Reviews & Restatements
We guide your board through updating declarations and bylaws, working with legal partners to ensure everything aligns.
✅ Reserve Studies & Budget Support
We organize compliant reserve studies and create transparent, board-ready budgets.
✅ Open Meeting Compliance
We set up clear, WUCIOA-approved meeting procedures and communication workflows.
✅ Board & Owner Education
Our managers teach your board and community what they need to know—no more confusion or fear of mistakes.
✅ WUCIOA Strategy for Pre-2018 Communities
Should you opt in now or wait? We help boards make smart, strategic decisions based on your community's size, financial health, and goals.
Start Preparing Today
WUCIOA is already reshaping how communities operate—and more changes are on the horizon.
With AmLo, your HOA or condo association gets local expertise, personalized support, and a strategic partner ready for what’s next.
Contact us today to start preparing your community for full WUCIOA compliance.
Up Next: WUCIOA Changes You Need to Understand
This blog covered the “what and when” of WUCIOA. In our next blog, we’ll break down the specific changes your HOA or condo board must prepare for, including:
Reserve study timelines
Limits on board powers
Owner access rights
Use of electronic voting
Meeting notice best practices
Penalties for noncompliance