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WUCIOA for All: Heat Pump Installations and Sustainable Living

As Washington transitions to the Washington Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act (WUCIOA), communities must prepare for new legal protections that support sustainable infrastructure. Beginning January 1, 2026, all common interest communities, regardless of when they were established, must comply with RCW 64.90.580, which protects the rights of Homeowners to install heat pumps.

This change reflects a broader commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. For Boards and community managers, it means updating architectural guidelines, revising approval processes, and preparing for increased Homeowner interest. Trestle is ready to help our Clients navigate these changes with clarity and confidence.

What the Law Requires

Under RCW 64.90.580, associations may no longer adopt or enforce any rule, covenant, or bylaw that prohibits or unreasonably restricts the installation or use of a heat pump by a Homeowner within their unit boundaries. Blanket bans are no longer enforceable.

Associations may still impose reasonable restrictions related to safety, aesthetics, and installation standards. These must be clearly defined, consistently applied, and not overly burdensome.

Key provisions include:

  • Approval Process: Homeowners may be required to submit an application for installation. Applications must follow the same process as other architectural modifications. If not denied in writing within 60 days, the application is deemed approved unless delayed due to a reasonable request for additional information.
  • Fees: Associations cannot charge a fee for the installation itself. A reasonable processing fee may be charged, but only if similar fees are charged for other types of architectural modifications.
  • Installation Conditions: Associations must approve installations if:
  • Installation is reasonably possible
  • The Homeowner agrees in writing to:
    • Comply with architectural standards
    • Use a qualified HVAC contractor
    • Comply with all applicable codes and safety standards

Why This Matters

Heat pumps offer an energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems. They reduce carbon emissions, lower utility costs, and support Washington’s climate goals. WUCIOA ensures that associations cannot stand in the way of responsible upgrades that benefit both individual Homeowners and the broader community.

For Boards, this means shifting from a restrictive posture to a facilitative one. Communities must be prepared to accommodate heat pump installations while maintaining safety and consistency. Failure to comply could result in legal challenges and Homeowner dissatisfaction.

What Boards Should Do Now

To prepare for this requirement, Boards should:

  • Review Governing Documents: Identify and remove any provisions that prohibit or unreasonably restrict heat pump installations,
  • Update Architectural Guidelines: Establish clear standards for heat pump installation, including safety, aesthetics, and contractor qualifications,
  • Formalize the Application Process: Ensure that applications are processed within the required timeframe and that Homeowners receive written responses,
  • Educate Homeowners: Communicate the new rights and responsibilities related to heat pump installations. Provide guidance on how to submit applications and meet installation requirements, and
  • Coordinate with Management and Legal Counsel: Work with your community manager and attorney to ensure full compliance and consistent implementation.

How Trestle Community Management Supports You

Trestle provides comprehensive support to help communities meet WUCIOA’s heat pump requirements. Our services include:

  • Architectural Guideline Updates: We assist Boards in revising standards to reflect the new law and support sustainable infrastructure,
  • Application Processing Tools: We provide templated forms and workflows to ensure timely, compliant application reviews,
  • Board Advisory Services: We educate Boards and Board Members on the legal requirements and best practices for facilitating heat pump installations, and
  • Homeowner Communication Support: We help associations prepare clear, consistent messaging to inform Homeowners of their rights and responsibilities.

Whether your community is a garden style or mid-rise condominium, a large-scale HOA, or an active-adult neighborhood, our services are designed to support your success under WUCIOA.

Download the Full Guide

To help Boards and Homeowners understand the upcoming changes, we have created a free downloadable resource, WUCIOA for All: A Guide for Pre-WUCIOA Communities.

This guide includes:

  • A summary of WUCIOA’s background and purpose,
  • A detailed implementation timeline,
  • Specific changes affecting meetings, assessments, EV charging, and heat pumps, and
  • Practical steps for Boards to prepare.

Learn More

The transition to WUCIOA is an opportunity to modernize governance, improve transparency, and empower Homeowners. With the right support, your community can navigate these changes smoothly and confidently.

To learn more about how Trestle supports community associations, contact us at (425) 454-6404, visit www.trestlecm.com, or connect with us on LinkedIn and Facebook.

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