The Ohio HOA laws update for 2025 introduces a mix of pending proposals and serves as a reminder of existing rules. While no sweeping reforms have passed yet, several bills are on the horizon. Homeowners and boards should stay alert as legislative discussions continue this year.
Are There Any Updates to Ohio HOA Laws?
There are no major enacted laws under the Ohio HOA laws 2025 session so far. Still, recent activity suggests that future changes may be on the way.
The Ohio HOA laws update for this year focuses on proposals under consideration. These include topics such as lien priority, reserve study requirements, and protections for political signs.
Senate Bill 61, which took effect in 2022, remains the most recent significant overhaul. It updated reserve funding rules, solar panel installation rights, insurance coverage requirements, and record-keeping practices.
While no new law has yet been passed this year, current proposals could add new layers of regulation. These regulations will likely affect both HOAs and condo associations.
House Bill 226: Lien Priority
One of the most closely watched bills involves lien priority. House Bill 226 represents one of the most notable new HOA laws in Ohio under review.
If passed, it would amend Ohio Revised Code Sections 5311.18 and 5312.12. This bill would give condominium associations lien priority over other liens filed against units or lots.
This change could make collection efforts stronger for associations with a lot of unpaid dues or delinquent accounts. It would also improve financial stability, as it ensures that association liens are given priority.
HB 226 is still in committee and has not cleared either chamber. Still, it remains a key measure for boards to monitor closely. Although it has not passed, this could indicate future efforts to rearrange lien priority.
Proposed Legislations
The discussion of changes to Ohio HOA laws goes beyond HB 226. Legislators have expressed their desire to write two other proposals. These are still in the early stages of the process, so they have yet to turn into bills.
Reserve Study Requirement
Legislators have revisited the idea of mandatory reserve studies for HOAs and condo associations. These studies help associations prepare for future maintenance needs. They also help avoid sudden financial shortfalls.
Current law allows associations to waive reserve contributions annually. This proposal would make reserve studies a statewide requirement.
If enacted, associations would need to perform regular reserve studies and follow funding plans. This would standardize reserve planning across Ohio communities. As a result, it would reduce the risk of deferred maintenance and surprise special assessments.
Several states already have reserve funding and study requirements in place. Many more are considering similar legislation, particularly after the Surfside condominium collapse that happened in Florida in 2021.
Yard Sign Protections
A separate proposal targets free speech in planned communities. It would prohibit HOAs from banning political yard signs during election periods.
Proposed by Rep. Brian Lorenz, this measure would extend similar protections already in place for flag displays under federal law. If adopted, associations would need to allow political sign displays. Still, associations would retain some authority to regulate the size and placement of these flags.
Communities struggle to strike the right balance between preserving community appearance standards and the right of homeowners to express themselves through decorations. This bill, if passed, would provide better direction and protection.
The bill has not yet been made in writing.
What are the Current HOA State Laws in Ohio?
Although the Ohio HOA laws update for 2025 has not introduced new statutes, several existing laws continue to govern association operations.
Ohio Condominium Act
The Ohio Condominium Act (ORC Chapter 5311) sets rules for condo associations. This outlines the powers of condo boards, unit owner rights, and enforcement processes.
Under this law, condo associations can levy assessments, enforce rules, and manage common areas. There are also record-keeping, meeting notice, and insurance requirements outlined in the Act.
Ohio Planned Community Act
The Ohio Planned Community Act (ORC Chapter 5312) covers HOAs. As with the Condominium Act, this law stipulates the authority of HOA boards, the rights of homeowners, and processes for enforcement.
Under this law, HOAs can collect fees and assessments, enforce community rules, and maintain common areas. There are also state regulations on documentation, insurance, meeting notices, and records access.
The Final Word
The Ohio HOA laws update for 2025 does not include any immediate changes. Instead, there are pending bills and proposed amendments, but nothing has been finalized yet. Homeowners and boards alike should stay informed and follow legislative developments. In doing so, they can protect their rights and avoid liability.
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