Boston, MA HOA Rules: Assessment & Dues (2026)
Key Facts
- Basis
- Percentage interest in master deed
- Super-Lien
- 6 months over first mortgage
- Interest
- Up to 18 percent
- Enforcement
- Lien + foreclosure
Summary
Boston condo assessments are governed by MGL Ch. 183A Sections 6 and 10. Unit owners must pay common charges based on percentage interest, and unpaid charges become a priority lien under the 6-month super-lien rule.
Section 6. (a) (i) Except as provided in paragraph (ii), all common expenses shall be assessed against all units either in accordance with their respective percentages of undivided interest in the common areas and facilities or, if stated in the master deed or an amendment thereto duly recorded in the approximate relation that the area of the unit bears to the aggregate area of all the units, which may take into account unit location, amenities in the unit, and limited common areas and facilities benefiting the unit; provided, however, that such an amendment shall require the consent of all unit owners whose common expense assessment is materially affected. The organization of unit owners shall have a lien on a unit for any common expense assessment levied against that unit from the time the assessment becomes due. Common expense assessments must be made at least annually, based on a budget adopted at least annually in accordance with the master deed, trust, or by-laws. [...] (b) The unit owner shall be personally liable for all sums assessed for his share of the common expenses including late charges, fines, penalties, and interest assessed by the organization of unit owners and all costs of collection including attorneys' fees, costs, and charges. (c) When any portion of the unit owner's share of the common expenses has been delinquent for at least sixty days subsequent to April 1, 1993, the organization of unit owners shall send a notice stating the amount of the delinquency to the unit owner by certified and first class mail.
Full Breakdown
MGL Chapter 183A Section 6 requires unit owners to pay monthly common area expenses in proportion to their percentage interest defined in the master deed. Special assessments for capital projects like roof replacement or facade work require trustee vote and, depending on bylaws, unit owner approval over a threshold. Unpaid common charges become an automatic lien on the unit. Under Section 6(c), up to 6 months of unpaid common charges have priority over the first mortgage (the Massachusetts super-lien). Associations typically charge 18 percent statutory interest on delinquent accounts and can foreclose to collect. Late fees and collection costs are generally recoverable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Massachusetts condo super-lien?
Can I withhold dues if I'm unhappy with the board?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Boston
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