HOA Management in Rhode Island

HOA operations in Rhode Island are primarily governed by the Rhode Island Condominium Act (R.I. Gen. Laws §34-36.1-1.01 et seq.). Governs condominiums formed after July 1, 1982. Covers creation, governance, assessments, liens, meetings, and unit owner rights. Non-condo HOAs rely on their declarations and the Nonprofit Corporation Act (R.I. Gen. Laws Ch. 7-6). Older condominiums governed by the Condominium Ownership Act (§34-36).

Rhode Island does not currently require a state-specific license for community association managers. Rhode Island does not have a dedicated CAM license. Property management activities for others may require a Real Estate Broker license under R.I. Gen. Laws Ch. 5-20.5. Even without a state mandate, look for professional designations like CMCA, AMS, or PCAM as indicators of competence and professionalism.

Board meetings must follow procedures set in the condominium instruments. Annual meetings required. The executive board must hold a special meeting if requested by 20% of unit owners for specific voting matters (2025 law). Board members owe fiduciary duties.

Rhode Island does not have a dedicated HOA dispute resolution agency or ombudsman. Disputes are resolved through governing documents procedures, mediation, or litigation in state courts.

R.I. Gen. Laws §34-36.1-3.16 grants the association a lien on units for unpaid assessments. The lien is prior to most other liens except those recorded before the declaration. Attorney's fees capped at $2,500 and foreclosure costs at $5,000 for lien enforcement.

Two new condominium laws enacted June 24, 2025: (1) executive board must hold special meetings if 20% of unit owners request votes on bylaw amendments, director removal, or budget rejection; (2) new insurance notice requirements — associations must give 30 days notice of deductible increases.

Match HOA provides a free matching service that connects Rhode Island HOA boards with vetted management companies. We verify that providers hold professional credentials like CMCA, AMS, or PCAM designations. Submit your community details through our intake form to receive matched recommendations within 48 hours.