If you own a condo, townhouse, or home in a community with a homeowners association (HOA), you likely pay regular dues or assessments. If you fall behind on those payments, the HOA can take legal action to collect the money you owe. That includes putting a lien on your home, suing you in court, or even starting foreclosure.

HOA debt is money you owe to your homeowners or condo association. This can include:

• Regular dues or assessments
• Special assessments for repairs or improvements
• Late fees, interest, or fines
• Legal or collection costs if the HOA has had to take action

These charges can build up quickly if left unpaid.

What the HOA can do to collect

Illinois law gives HOAs and condo associations powerful tools to collect unpaid fees. These may include:

• Charging interest and late fees
• Limiting your use of amenities like pools or clubhouses
• Filing a lien against your property
• Suing to evict you from the property so they can rent it
• Suing you in court to collect the debt
• Foreclosing on your home if the debt goes unpaid long enough

The HOA must follow specific legal steps, including written notice, but they are not required to wait long before starting action.

Your rights

Even if you owe the debt, you still have rights. You can:

• Ask for a written breakdown of what you owe
• Dispute any charges you believe are wrong
• Ask the HOA for a payment plan or to waive certain fees
• Respond to any lawsuit or foreclosure action in court

It’s important not to ignore letters, court papers, or warnings. Acting early gives you more options.

Learn more

Illinois Legal Aid Online information about homeowner associations