Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7609

Introduced
2/11/26  

Caption

Causes the enactment of the amendment of § 34-36.1-3.22 to be applicable to condominiums created before July 1, 1982.

Impact

One of the key impacts of H7609 is the establishment of mandatory financial planning within condominium associations. It requires these associations to fund 100% of projected costs determined by the reserve study. By setting up an association reserve financial account exclusively for the identified expenses, the bill aims to ensure that funds are available when necessary without dipping into other operational budgets. Moreover, the bill stipulates that reserve funds can only be held in financial institutions that have physical locations within the county where the condominium is situated, ensuring that local banks benefit from the business.

Summary

House Bill H7609, introduced in the Rhode Island General Assembly, pertains to the management and maintenance practices of condominiums, specifically those created before July 1, 1982. The bill proposes amendments to the existing Condominium Law, particularly emphasizing the requirement for condominium associations to conduct reserve studies. These studies are essential for identifying future maintenance or repairs necessary for common elements that anticipate significant deterioration. The bill mandates that these studies include detailed itemizations of expected maintenance costs and timelines, which must be prepared or recommended by a licensed engineer or architect in Rhode Island.

Contention

The introduction of this bill is likely to generate discourse regarding the financial implications for older condominium associations. Critics may argue that it imposes additional financial burdens on associations that may already be struggling to manage budgets. For many older condominiums, unexpectedly high maintenance costs could exacerbate financial challenges. On the other hand, proponents assert that the reserve studies and proper funding are essential to prevent future costly repairs that can arise from deferred maintenance. Thus, the discussion surrounding H7609 could reflect broader debates about financial sustainability and accountability in condominium governance.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5330

Provides that amendments to §§ 34-36.1-1.03 and 34-36.1-3.08 are applicable to condominiums created before July 1, 1982, provides a definition for the term “special assessment” and allows unit owners to participate in association meetings remotely.

RI H5156

Provides that the “meetings” requirements from § 34-36.1-3.08 be applicable to condominiums created before July 1, 1982, and would permit remote participation in condominium meetings.

RI S0496

Provides that the “meetings” requirements from § 34-36.1-3.08 be applicable to condominiums created before July 1, 1982, and would permit remote participation in condominium meetings.

RI S0509

Provides that the “meetings” requirements from § 34-36.1-3.08 be applicable to condominiums created before July 1, 1982, and would permit remote participation in condominium meetings.

RI H5826

Creates a process for condominium associations to give notice to and obtain approval from unit mortgage holders for certain association actions.

RI H5823

Voids any provision in a condominium declaration or bylaw that would limit an increase in annual assessments relative to a percentage of the prior year's assessment.

RI H5586

Creates process for condominium associations to give notice to and obtain approval from unit mortgage holders for certain association actions by mailing a written request for approval to the unit mortgagees via regular and certified mail.

RI S0508

Creates process for condominium associations to give notice to and obtain approval from unit mortgage holders for certain association actions by mailing a written request for approval to the unit mortgagees via regular and certified mail.

RI H5587

References both the declaration and bylaws of a condominium association as possible sources of association insurance regulation for the condominiums and require additional insurance to protect unit owners, when necessary.

RI H5585

Requires associations to provide unit owners within thirty (30) days notice of any increase in the deductible application to the association’s policy.

Similar Bills

HI SB2433

Relating To Condominiums.

HI SB3309

Relating To Condominiums.

HI HB2453

Relating To Condominiums.

MI SB0272

Housing: condominium; definition of undeveloped land; modify. Amends sec. 67 of 1978 PA 59 (MCL 559.167).

HI HR23

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Sunrise Analysis Of Condominium Association Managers.

HI HCR24

Requesting The Auditor To Conduct A Sunrise Analysis Of Condominium Association Managers.

TX HB4812

Relating to the authority of a municipality or county to regulate condominiums.

HI SB1601

Relating To Condominiums.