Connecticut HOA Law Changes 2021–2025: What Every Board Needs to Know

Overview of Connecticut HOA Law Changes 2021–2025

Connecticut common interest communities are governed by the Common Interest Ownership Act (CIOA), Connecticut General Statutes Chapter 828 (§ 47-200 et seq.). Connecticut updates CIOA through periodic statutory maintenance rather than frequent overhauls, and the most significant change for boards during this period concerned electronic and remote meeting participation.

2021 Legislative Session

Public Act 21-169 — Remote Meeting and Voting Participation

Public Act 21-169, effective July 12, 2021, amended CGS § 47-250(a)(5) governing meetings and rules. Before the amendment, the statute framed remote participation as something the declaration or bylaws "may allow." PA 21-169 flipped that default: unit owners may now vote by electronic or paper ballot, and meetings may be conducted in person, electronically, or both, unless the declaration or bylaws specifically prohibit it. The act also reinforced that meeting notice must state the agenda items to be addressed, including any proposed budget changes. Practically, this means Connecticut associations no longer need affirmative authorization in their governing documents to hold electronic meetings — only an association whose declaration or bylaws expressly prohibits electronic participation is barred from it.

Notable Court Decisions

Canner v. Governors Ridge Ass'n (Conn. 2024)

In April 2024, the Connecticut Supreme Court addressed which statute of limitations applies to different types of CIOA-related claims against an association. The court held that negligent-construction claims brought under CIOA are governed by Connecticut's three-year tort limitations period, while claims grounded in bylaws or common-element repair obligations sound in contract and are subject to the six-year contract limitations period. This distinction matters for boards and members evaluating how long they have to bring or defend a claim relating to common-element defects or repair failures.

Board Action Checklist

• Review your declaration and bylaws to confirm they do not contain a prohibition on electronic meetings or voting — if silent, PA 21-169's default allowing remote participation applies
• Ensure meeting notices continue to state the specific agenda items, including any proposed budget changes, as required under § 47-250
• Understand the distinction between tort-based and contract-based claims under CIOA when evaluating limitations periods for construction or repair disputes
• Consult Connecticut counsel before assuming any statutory right or requirement not found in CGS Chapter 828 or your governing documents

How APM Helps Connecticut HOA Boards Stay Compliant

APM's remote HOA management service monitors Connecticut HOA and condominium law updates and provides client boards with compliance guidance and updated policy templates as the law changes. Learn about our Connecticut remote management services. Contact us at billing@apmhoa.com or call 810-777-7060.

Legal disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed Connecticut attorney for guidance specific to your community.