The bill seeks to improve the supply and affordability of condominium units and townhouses in Washington State by amending various sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW). Key provisions include the introduction of new definitions related to construction defects and the responsibilities of construction professionals, particularly requiring a "construction defect professional" to provide a detailed written report when a condominium association files a claim. The bill also streamlines the claims process for construction defects, establishing clear timelines for notice and response, and allowing claimants to amend their notices to include newly discovered defects. Additionally, it clarifies that associations are not restricted in incurring expenses related to preparing and serving notices of claim.

Moreover, the bill creates a down payment assistance account funded by real estate excise tax receipts from the sale of condominiums or townhouses, which will be managed by the Washington State Housing Finance Commission. It also modifies the imposition of impact fees by local governments, ensuring that these fees reflect the proportionate impact of new housing units and providing exemptions for low-income housing and early learning facilities under specific conditions. The bill emphasizes the need for local governments to update their regulations accordingly and includes provisions for unit lot subdivisions and safe walking conditions for students. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance homeownership opportunities and streamline processes related to construction defects and housing development.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 64.35.105, 64.50.010, 64.50.020, 64.50.040, 64.50.050, 64.90.250, 64.90.605, 64.90.645, 64.90.665, 64.90.670, 64.90.675, 82.45.010, 82.02.060, 43.31.565
Substitute Bill: 64.35.105, 64.50.010, 64.50.020, 64.50.040, 64.90.250, 64.90.605, 64.90.645, 64.90.665, 82.45.010, 82.02.060, 43.31.565, 64.55.160
Second Substitute: 64.35.105, 64.50.010, 64.50.020, 64.50.040, 64.90.250, 64.90.605, 64.90.645, 82.45.010, 82.45.230, 82.02.060, 43.31.565, 64.55.160
Engrossed Second Substitute: 64.35.105, 64.50.010, 64.50.020, 64.50.040, 64.90.250, 64.90.605, 64.90.645, 82.45.010, 82.02.060, 43.31.565, 64.55.160
Bill as Passed Legislature: 64.35.105, 64.50.010, 64.50.020, 64.50.040, 64.90.250, 64.90.605, 64.90.645, 82.02.060, 43.31.565, 64.55.160
Session Law: 64.35.105, 64.50.010, 64.50.020, 64.50.040, 64.90.250, 64.90.605, 64.90.645, 82.02.060, 43.31.565, 64.55.160