Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup

Lowell, MA HOA Rules: Assessment & Dues (2026)

Heavy Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Super-priority lien
6 months over mortgage
Statute
MGL c.183A s.6
Assessment basis
Unit percentage interest
Withholding allowed
No, pay under protest

Summary

Lowell condo associations may levy common area assessments under MGL c.183A, with a super-priority lien for up to 6 months of unpaid common charges that takes priority over a first mortgage.

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.

Source: MGL Chapter 183A Section 6View official code

Full Breakdown

Condominium associations in Lowell levy monthly common area assessments (condo fees) based on each unit's percentage interest as stated in the master deed. Under MGL c.183A s.6, unpaid assessments become a lien on the unit, and up to 6 months of unpaid common charges (plus reasonable attorney fees) have priority over a first mortgage under the Massachusetts super-priority statute, a powerful collection tool. Special assessments for major repairs must be authorized per bylaws, often requiring a vote of unit owners above a threshold amount. Boards must prepare an annual budget and distribute it to unit owners with reasonable notice before assessments are due. Late fees, interest, and collection costs are collectible if authorized by bylaws. Unit owners cannot withhold assessments to protest maintenance or management issues; courts consistently enforce the obligation to pay while other disputes are resolved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I withhold my condo fee for poor service?
No. Courts require payment regardless of disputes; recover damages in a separate action.
What is the 6-month super-priority lien?
Up to 6 months of unpaid condo fees take priority over a first mortgage in foreclosure.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Lowell

All Lowell rules

Compare Lowell to another location·View the Massachusetts hoa rules overview

Get notified when Assessment & Dues in Lowell, MA changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.

Assessment & Dues in Nearby Cities

How other cities in this county handle assessment & dues.

Somerville, MA
Heavy Restrictions
Cambridge, MA
Heavy Restrictions
Waltham, MA
Heavy Restrictions