Utah Department of Commerce Forms Working Group to Address Homeowners' Association Concerns
The Utah Department of Commerce has established a new working group to address growing concerns related to homeowners' associations (HOAs) in the state. This initiative aims to identify issues and propose policy changes for consideration by the state legislature. The group comprises homeowners, HOA representatives, industry experts, and government officials, including members of the Utah state legislature. Erin Rider, Director of the HOA Ombudsman Office, and Steve Waldrip, the Governor’s Senior Advisor for Housing Strategy and Innovation, are key participants. The formation of this group comes as approximately 80% of new home constructions in Utah are within HOAs, impacting home affordability due to additional fees and dues. The Office of the Homeowners’ Association Ombudsman, established by a 2025 law, is tasked with elevating the HOA component of the housing market and ensuring these communities work effectively for residents.