Substitute House Bill No. 7002 amends Section 47-257 of the general statutes to revise assessment procedures for common interest ownership communities, particularly regarding common expense assessments. The bill replaces the phrase "at least" with "not less than" to specify that assessments must occur annually based on an adopted budget. It introduces a new subsection (h) allowing for increased assessments against a unit owner for common expenses arising from their own alterations or improvements. Additionally, the bill clarifies that unit owners cannot exempt themselves from liability for common expenses and includes provisions addressing misconduct or negligence by unit owners.

The bill also establishes protections for unit owners of single-family detached units wishing to install solar power systems, effective January 1, 2026. It renders unenforceable any declarations or bylaws that unreasonably restrict such installations and outlines a formal approval process for unit owners to submit applications to their association's executive board. The board must acknowledge receipt of applications and respond within specified timeframes, with automatic approval if no written denial is issued. Unit owners are required to enter into a written agreement with the association covering compliance, costs, and maintenance responsibilities. The bill further allows associations to install solar panels on common elements and mandates disclosure of solar systems to prospective buyers, while repealing previous restrictions on planned community associations regarding solar installations.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 47-257
PD Joint Favorable: 47-257
File No. 272: 47-257