Balcony and deck inspections, and big insurance increases.
Associations must have balconies, decks and stairways over six feet high (exterior elevated elements) inspected by a licensed engineer or architect, then every nine years. Repairs found by those inspections are behind many recent assessments.
Cal. Civ. Code 5551The board can levy special assessments of up to 5% of the year's budgeted gross expenses on its own. Above that, owners must approve them by a majority vote at a meeting with a quorum, unless it is an emergency such as a court order or an immediate threat to safety.
Cal. Civ. Code 5605; 5610Each owner must get individual notice of a special assessment 30 to 60 days before it is due.
Cal. Civ. Code 5615You can inspect and copy association records, including contracts, bids, minutes, reserve studies and financial statements. The association must provide current-year records within 10 business days and the prior two years' within 30 calendar days, and can owe a civil penalty of up to $500 per request if it refuses.
Cal. Civ. Code 5205; 5210; 5235You have the right to ask for a board meeting about a payment plan, and no extra late fees can be added while you follow an agreed plan. Late charges are capped at the greater of 10% or $10, and interest at 12% a year. The association cannot foreclose for less than $1,800, or for debts under 12 months old.
Cal. Civ. Code 5650; 5665; 5720In California, the same rules cover condos and HOAs.
Summarised from the statutes in November 2026. Not legal advice; your declaration and bylaws may add more rules.