Washington Reserve Studies Under WUCIOA

Washington Reserve Studies Under WUCIOA

Washington governs community associations through the Washington Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act, known as WUCIOA and codified at RCW 64.90. RCW 64.90.550 governs reserve studies and reserve funding. Communities formed before 2018 may still operate under the older RCW 64.34 condo framework or RCW 64.38 HOA framework, and the older statutes have similar reserve obligations. The Washington Attorney General consumer protection division handles HOA complaints.

What RCW 64.90.550 actually requires

RCW 64.90.550 requires a reserve study every 3 years for most Washington associations, with annual updates between full studies. The study must inventory components, project replacement costs, and feed the funding plan. Boards must disclose the percent funded in the annual budget package.

What good Washington practice looks like

Four practices distinguish Washington boards.

First, calendar the next reserve study at the same meeting where the current one is adopted.

Second, document reserve decisions in minutes that survive a records request.

Third, separate operating and replacement reserves at the bank.

Fourth, follow CAI Washington State chapter bulletins.

Recent Washington developments

Washington has continued to refine WUCIOA in recent sessions. CAI Washington State publishes operational guidance for each amendment.

What your board should do this quarter

Take three actions.

1. Confirm the date of your last reserve study. RCW 64.90.550 expects a 3 year cycle.
2. Confirm operating and reserve accounts are physically separate.
3. Read the latest CAI Washington State chapter recap.

This is general information for board members, not legal advice. Consult your attorney for your specific situation.

How Manorway helps

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