Federal Way HOAs may levy regular and special assessments under RCW 64.90 or 64.38. Unpaid assessments become liens and may be foreclosed after statutory notice and cure periods.
Under WUCIOA (RCW 64.90) and the older RCW 64.38, Federal Way homeowner associations have statutory authority to levy regular assessments to fund operations and reserves, and special assessments for capital projects, shortfalls, or emergencies. Budgets must be adopted and in many cases ratified according to governing documents, with owner ratification required by WUCIOA in many situations. Delinquent assessments accrue interest and late fees allowed by statute and the CCRs, and associations may record liens against the unit. Under RCW 64.90, HOAs have a limited lien super-priority for up to six months of delinquent assessments ahead of first mortgage liens. Foreclosure of assessment liens is permitted after proper statutory notice and cure periods, typically through King County Superior Court.
Owners who fail to pay assessments face lien recording, escalating late fees, and potential foreclosure. HOAs that skip statutory budgeting or notice requirements risk having assessments invalidated.
See how other cities in King County handle assessment & dues.
See how Federal Way's assessment & dues rules stack up against other locations.
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