This bill introduces new requirements for associations governing common interest communities, including condominiums and homeowners' associations, regarding their response to inquiries from unit owners or their authorized agents. Specifically, when a written inquiry is submitted via certified mail, the association must respond within 30 days, either providing a substantive answer or indicating that a legal or third-party opinion has been requested. If such an opinion is sought, the association is required to provide a substantive response within 60 days. Failure to comply with these response timelines will prevent the association from recovering attorneys' fees and costs in any related disputes.

Additionally, the bill allows associations to establish reasonable rules regarding the frequency and manner of responses, such as limiting responses to one inquiry per unit or lot every 30 days. Importantly, the new sections added to chapters 64.90, 64.32, 64.34, and 64.38 of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) will expire on January 1, 2028. This legislation aims to enhance transparency and accountability in association governance by ensuring timely communication with unit owners.