Bill > HB0217

This bill establishes and regulates the Office of the Homeowners' Association Ombudsman, creating a new resource for homeowners and unit owners to seek guidance on potential violations of state statutes related to homeowners' associations. The bill creates an office within the Department of Commerce staffed by attorneys with expertise in community association law, who will be able to analyze complaints and provide advisory opinions on potential statutory violations. The ombudsman's office cannot represent private parties in legal actions or provide interpretations of governing documents, but can offer an impartial analysis of whether a situation appears to violate state law. The bill also includes provisions for filing complaints, paying a modest filing fee, and obtaining an advisory opinion before initiating legal action. Additionally, the bill makes several amendments to existing laws governing homeowners' associations, including provisions related to record-keeping, landscaping, rule-making, and the period of administrative control. The office will be subject to a sunset provision, meaning it will be automatically repealed on July 1, 2030, unless renewed by the legislature. The bill is set to take effect on May 7, 2025.

Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0217.html