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WUCIOA for All Virtual Meetings and Modern Governance

As Washington’s common interest communities continue implementing the Washington Uniform Common Interest Ownership Act (WUCIOA), one of the most impactful changes is the formal recognition of virtual meetings. Under RCW 64.90.445, associations are no longer required to hold meetings at a physical location, as long as they are conducted through real-time communication.

This change modernizes governance practices and expands access for Homeowners. For Boards, Board Members, and Clients, it offers flexibility and efficiency. For Homeowners, it means more opportunities to participate in decision-making, regardless of location or mobility.

Trestle is committed to helping our Clients adopt virtual meeting practices that meet legal standards and support inclusive governance.

What the Law Allows

WUCIOA permits associations to conduct Board and committee meetings using real-time communication platforms such as video conferencing or phone calls. These meetings must still comply with all other requirements, including:

  • Advance notice to all Homeowners,
  • Open access to all unit owners (except during executive sessions),
  • A published agenda, and
  • A designated time for Homeowner comments.

Virtual meetings must be conducted in a way that allows all participants to hear and be heard. This ensures that the meeting is accessible, transparent, and legally valid.

Why This Matters

Virtual meetings are no longer a temporary solution; they are a legally supported option for all communities. This is especially important for:

  • Communities with geographically dispersed Homeowners,
  • Associations with limited access to physical meeting space, and
  • Boards seeking to improve attendance and engagement.

By embracing virtual meetings, Boards can increase transparency, reduce logistical barriers, and foster stronger relationships with Homeowners.

What Boards Should Do Now

To implement virtual meetings successfully, Boards should:

  • Select a Reliable Platform: Choose a video or phone conferencing tool that supports real-time communication and is accessible to all participants,
  • Update Meeting Notices: Include clear instructions for joining the virtual meeting, along with the time, date, and agenda,
  • Train Board Members: Ensure all Board Members are comfortable using the platform and understand how to manage virtual participation,
  • Facilitate Homeowner Engagement: Provide guidance to Homeowners on how to join, participate, and comment during virtual meetings, and
  • Document Attendance and Participation: Keep accurate records of who attended and how participation was managed.

How Trestle Community Management Supports You

Trestle’s electronic meeting software fully meets WUCIOA’s requirements for virtual meetings. Our services include:

  • Virtual Meeting Setup and Support: We help Clients use platforms that support real-time communication and legal compliance,
  • Templated Notices and Agendas: We provide standardized materials that include all required information for virtual meetings,
  • Board Training and Advisory Services: We educate Boards and Board Members on best practices for hosting and managing virtual meetings, and
  • Homeowner Communication Tools: We assist Clients in preparing clear instructions and support materials for Homeowners.

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 changes now in effect, 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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