HOA glossary · H
HOA Lien
What is an HOA lien?
An HOA lien is a legal claim the association places on a homeowner’s property when dues or fees go unpaid. It gives the HOA the right to collect owed money if the property is sold or refinanced. In some cases, it is a step taken before foreclosure.
Why is an HOA lien important?
Liens protect the HOA’s right to collect unpaid dues, which are essential for covering shared expenses. Without them, associations would have limited tools for ensuring fair contributions from all homeowners.
How can you use “HOA lien” in a sentence?
No one wants to do it, but if the dues don’t get paid and the rules are violated, an HOA lien is a last resort option.
Related terms
- Lien NoticeA lien notice is a formal warning that an HOA can place a legal claim on a property when a homeowner doesn’t pay their dues or fees.
- Lien PriorityLien priority determines the order in which debts are paid during a foreclosure. HOA liens often rank below mortgage or tax liens.
- HOA ForeclosureHOA foreclosure is the legal process an association can use to recover unpaid dues or fees by forcing the sale of a homeowner’s property.
- Right of First RefusalThe right of first refusal lets the HOA, or its members, match a third-party offer before a property is sold to a new owner.
