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WUCIOA for All: Supporting EV Charging in Your Community

Beginning January 1, 2026, all common interest communities in Washington must comply with new rules under the Washington Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act (WUCIOA) that protect Homeowners’ rights to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. These changes reflect the growing demand for sustainable infrastructure and ensure that associations cannot unreasonably restrict access to EV charging.

For Boards and community managers, this 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 64.90.513, associations may no longer adopt or enforce any rule, covenant, or bylaw that prohibits or unreasonably restricts the installation or use of an EV charging station by a Homeowner. This includes blanket bans, arbitrary denials, or excessive fees.

Associations may still impose reasonable restrictions related to safety, aesthetics, and installation standards. However, 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 placement of an EV charging station. 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:
  • The location is within the unit or a designated parking space
  • Installation is reasonably possible
  • The Homeowner agrees in writing to:
    • Comply with architectural standards
    • Use a qualified electrical contractor
    • Provide insurance naming the association as an additional insured (if applicable)
    • Register the vehicle with the association
    • Pay for the electricity usage associated with the EV charging station

Why This Matters

EV ownership is growing rapidly, and Homeowners increasingly expect their communities to support sustainable living. WUCIOA ensures that associations cannot stand in the way of responsible infrastructure upgrades.

For Boards, this means shifting from a restrictive posture to a facilitative one. Communities must be prepared to accommodate EV charging 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 EV charging stations,
  • Update Architectural Guidelines: Establish clear standards for EV charger 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 EV charging. 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 EV charging 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 on the legal requirements and best practices for facilitating EV charger 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
  • 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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