Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Washington

Re: forclosure

The short answer is yes - they can place a lien on your property. Homeowner associations and condo associations typically provide within their bylaws that failure to pay assessments will result in a lien being filed against your unit. This is also mirrored by law under Title 64 of the Revised Code of Washington. A lien may be filed for any outstanding dues, and if done correctly takes priority over the mortgage. A condo assessment lien has a 3 year prescription period meaning the association can wait 3 years to foreclose the lien.

This issue can be tricky but it seems that the association will act quickly to file a lien. By law, Associations are also enabled to collect delinquency penalties, fees and often filing and attorney's fees. Therefore it is best to act quickly in response to this notice. A construction attorney can assist you with handling liens and can provide further advice on your situation. You may contact our office at any time to discuss your matter more thoroughly. [email protected]