Polistina, Guardian propose legislation to curb steep HOA fee increases in New Jersey
TRENTON, N.J. — State Sen. Vince Polistina and Assemblyman Don Guardian announced plans to introduce legislation aimed at preventing sharp increases in homeowners association fees by modifying New Jersey’s capital reserve funding requirements for planned real estate developments.
The Atlantic County Republicans said the proposal comes in response to concerns from residents facing significant HOA fee increases tied to new reserve funding mandates.
“Over the past several weeks, our office has been inundated with calls and emails from residents who fear they may lose their homes because of staggering increases in homeowners’ association fees,” said Senator Polistina. “We’ve heard from working families, single parents, and retirees who are already struggling with the rising cost of living. For many of these residents, these increases are simply unsustainable.”
Under the proposed legislation, certain homeowners associations would be allowed to phase in required reserve funding levels over a five-year period rather than implementing immediate increases. Supporters say the measure would help avoid large and unexpected fee hikes while still ensuring associations maintain adequate reserves for future capital projects and repairs.
“This legislation was never meant to force seniors on fixed incomes to lose their homes,” Assemblyman Don Guardian said. “I believe we can achieve a proper balance between ensuring structural safety and reining in association fee increases. Trenton must act immediately before HOAs are made to drive their members into debt.”
Polistina and Guardian said they plan to formally introduce the legislation next week and are seeking bipartisan support to move the bill quickly through the legislative process.
The lawmakers said the proposal is intended to balance financial planning requirements for associations with affordability concerns for homeowners, particularly seniors and residents on fixed incomes.
