Washington, DC HOA Rules: Assessment & Dues (2026)
Key Facts
- Assessment frequency
- At least annually
- Past-due trigger
- 15 days after due date
- Interest rate cap
- 10% per year (or lower cap)
- Governing law
- D.C. Condominium Act, Title 42
Summary
D.C.'s Condominium Act sets how unit owners' associations must allocate and levy common-expense assessments, made at least annually under the bylaws' proportionate formula.
The bylaws may establish the fraction or percentage of liability for such expenses appertaining to each condominium unit proportionate to either the size or par value of such condominium unit. Otherwise, the bylaws shall allocate to each such condominium unit an equal liability for such expenses... Such assessments shall be made by the unit owners' association annually, or more often if the condominium instruments so provide.
Full Breakdown
In Washington, D.C., condominium unit owners' associations assess common expenses under D.C. Code § 42-1903.12. The bylaws set each unit's share by size or par value, or equally if the bylaws are silent, with convertible spaces assessed proportionate to size. Assessments happen annually, or more often if the condominium instruments allow. Unpaid assessments become past due 15 days after the due date and then draw interest at the lesser of 10% per year or the maximum first-mortgage rate. A separate lien statute, § 42-1903.13, lets the association foreclose after 30 days' notice.
Violations & Fines
Past-due assessments accrue interest at up to 10% per year (or the max first-mortgage rate, if lower) starting 15 days after the due date; the unpaid balance also becomes a lien on the unit under § 42-1903.13, enforceable by foreclosure sale after 30 days' notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is each unit's assessment share set?
What happens if I miss a payment?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Washington
Compare Washington to another location·View the District of Columbia hoa rules overview
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