Rhode Island 2026 Regular Session

Rhode Island House Bill H7854

Introduced
2/27/26  

Caption

Amends various sections of the condominium law to enhance transparency.

Impact

The proposed amendments have significant implications for how condominium associations operate in the state. By enforcing stricter transparency measures, the bill ensures that unit owners have better access to information regarding meetings and financial reviews. Moreover, it mandates independent financial audits to be conducted at least once every five years for associations governing more than twenty units. This aims to foster trust and accountability within the condominium governance structure and protect the interests of unit owners.

Summary

House Bill H7854 aims to amend various sections of the condominium law in Rhode Island to enhance transparency and accountability within condominium associations. The bill introduces requirements for regular meetings of condominium associations, mandates that minutes and notices must be accessible to unit owners, and allows meetings to be conducted electronically. This change reflects contemporary needs for greater accessibility and inclusion in governance processes.

Contention

Despite its transparency goals, the bill may face contention concerning the actual implementation of electronic meetings and access to information. Some may argue that the switch to remote meetings could disadvantage those without reliable internet access, undermining the inclusivity that the bill seeks to promote. Additionally, the financial review mandates could impose financial burdens on smaller associations, potentially leading to pushback from those who feel that the costs outweigh the benefits of enhanced transparency.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

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 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 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 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 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 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 H5585

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

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