OLYMPIA – Condominiums are an affordable way for first-time homebuyers to get a foot in the door, but state liability laws have discouraged developers from condo construction, creating a gap in the housing supply and pressure on the rental market. Rep. Jamila Taylor (D-Federal Way) wants to close that gap and spur new condo construction with House Bill 1403.
“The current statute for condominium warranty is unclear and ambiguous, creating unnecessary legal risk for builders that impacts their willingness to advance condo development,” said Rep. Taylor. “This leaves residents with fewer viable options to become new homeowners or to down-size as they reach retirement.”
Under the proposed bill, the statute would be clarified to give builders more guidance, including established warranty periods and conflict resolution process. “Condo liability reform is long overdue,” added Rep. Taylor. “Encouraging condo construction is one of the ways we can bridge the gap between renting and homeownership and improve the overall housing eco-system.”
“The solutions to the housing crisis are within our reach,” Rep. Taylor emphasized. “This is part of a slate of housing bills that we are passing this session to increase supply, expand affordability, and stabilize the rental market.”
The bill passed the House with a bipartisan vote of 89 to 7 and now proceeds to the Senate for consideration.