The average HOA fees in Washington D.C. don’t always show up first on a buyer’s radar. People look at the mortgage, the taxes, and maybe insurance. But the dues are right there, too, and they can affect a household’s monthly budget.
What are HOA Fees?
Homeowners associations, including condominiums, charge monthly fees to cover the cost of maintenance, operations, and other expenses. Also known as dues, every owner in the community must pay them. That money goes into a shared fund, and the association uses it to keep things running.
The HOA board is in charge of calculating the dues based on what the association needs. This board sets the budget and then collects dues on a monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis. It ultimately depends on what the governing documents say.
Condo fees work in a similar way but usually run higher, and for good reason. Condo associations manage way more than most HOAs. When the roof leaks, the boiler dies, or the elevator breaks, the bill doesn’t fall on one person. It’s split across all the unit owners, which is why condo fees can feel higher since they cover more ground.
What Do HOA Fees Cover?
While costs can vary from one association to another, there are some things that fees commonly cover. In general, these include:
- Landscaping and lawn service
- Snow removal and trash collection
- Sidewalk and street upkeep
- Pools, gyms, or tennis courts
- Private security or gate systems
- Neighborhood activities and seasonal decorations
- Insurance premiums
- Professional fees (management, attorneys, and accountants)
Condo fees expand that list. Because people share the same building, they often include:
- Roof, exterior walls, and foundation maintenance
- Elevator inspections and repairs
- Hallway lighting, lobby cleaning, garage upkeep
- Shared utilities like water or gas, sometimes internet
- Building staff like janitors, concierges, or security
Both types of associations set aside reserves. The reserves function as a safety net of sorts, keeping associations safe from sudden financial burdens. Without it, owners might get hit with a special assessment, which tends to be expensive.
How Much are Average HOA Fees?
Communities aren’t all the same size or offer the same amenities. Some handle everything, while others handle almost nothing. Because of this, HOA fees aren’t fixed. They can change from one community to another, or even from one year to the next for the same community.
In Washington D.C., typical HOA fees come in around $350 per month. Again, this number can change depending on the association. Some HOAs only charge $100 or so, which covers the bare minimum. Others can creep into the $400 to $500 range if they’re paying for extras such as pools or gated entry.
Fees may look high, but they can save homeowners money in the long run. A monthly $350 fee that covers trash service, exterior maintenance, and landscaping might cost less than if owners were to arrange these themselves.
How Much are Average Condo Association Fees?
Condo fees tend to be higher than HOA fees. In D.C., average condo HOA fees usually land between $500 and $800 per month, but it still depends on what type of condo the person owns.
For example, a small walk-up with no elevator might sit at the lower end of the spectrum. Meanwhile, mid-rise or high-rise buildings with amenities usually cost much more. Luxury buildings, especially in high-end neighborhoods, can even push past $1,000 a month.
Why Condo Fees are Higher Than Average HOA Fees
Condo fees cost more than single-family HOA fees because they cover more ground. Single-family communities manage green spaces, sidewalks, and facilities, but condominiums manage entire buildings from top to bottom.
In condo associations, fees cover the following as well:
- Structural repairs, roofs, and foundations
- Elevators, boilers, heating systems
- Cleaning staff, security guards, or concierges
- Shared utilities that serve the entire building
- Bigger reserve contributions for major projects
Homeowners associations can’t compare at that level. They only deal with common grounds, fences, playgrounds, or pools. This is why condo fees almost always outpace average HOA fees.
Do You Have to Pay Association Fees?
Yes, owners do have to pay association fees. When a person buys a home or unit in an association, they automatically become a member of that association. This membership comes with certain obligations to fulfill, including the obligation to pay dues.
It is worth noting that not all associations come with automatic membership, but most do. Buyers should first check if the home or unit they wish to purchase comes with association membership and financial obligations. This way, they won’t be surprised by fees.
What Happens When You Don’t Pay HOA Fees?
Membership in an HOA or condo community means paying regular fees to the association. When homeowners default on these payments, they can face a number of possible consequences. These consequences apply to both HOAs and condo associations.
1. Late Fees or Interest
Associations can typically impose a late fee or interest charges for unpaid dues. For condominiums, Section 42–1903.08 of D.C. law permits such charges. Board members should also refer to their governing documents for guidance.
2. Suspension of Privileges
Depending on the CC&Rs and bylaws, some associations can temporarily revoke access to amenities if an owner defaults on their fees. They might even be able to suspend voting rights until the owner settles their outstanding balance.
3. Collection Agency
Associations may refer delinquent accounts to a collection agency. Collection agencies are known for reporting debts to credit bureaus, which means owners might see their credit score plummet due to unpaid dues.
4. Legal Action
Associations can file lawsuits in D.C. Superior Court. Once the court issues a judgment, it can lead to wage garnishment or bank account levies.
5. Liens
Condo associations in particular have strong powers under D.C. Code Section 42–1903.13 (for condominiums). An unpaid balance automatically creates a lien on the unit.
Associations may also file liens if their governing documents allow it. A lien will sit there until the owner clears the debt, and it makes refinancing or selling nearly impossible.
6. Foreclosure
The last and harshest step is foreclosure. Under D.C. Code Section 42–1903.13(c), condo associations can foreclose on a unit for unpaid dues. Associations may do the same if their governing documents grant the authority.
Careful Research
Average HOA fees can greatly influence a household’s budget, so buyers should make an effort to find out everything they can before committing to a purchase. After all, if they fail to pay their dues, they can face penalties such as legal action, liens, and even foreclosure.
TNWLC offers HOA financial management services to community associations in Washington, DC. Call us today at (202) 483-8282 or contact us online to get started!
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