Which of the following is NOT included in a lien for assessments?

The inclusion of certain items in a lien for assessments is governed by the specifics outlined in property law as well as the governing documents of the community association. Typically, liens for assessments aim to secure the payment of charges that are directly related to the owner's obligations to the association.

In general, late charges, interest on unpaid assessments, and collection costs are considered necessary to incentivize timely payments and to recover costs incurred in the collection of dues. These components help ensure that the financial stability of the association is maintained. Late charges serve as penalties for late payments, while interest can accrue over time on the unpaid balance, creating an added financial obligation. Collection costs are legitimate expenses incurred by the association in recovering amounts due, thereby justifying their inclusion in the lien.

However, punitive damages for late payment do not typically form part of a lien for assessments. Punitive damages are intended to punish the debtor for wrongful conduct and are generally not recoverable in the context of a contractual obligation to pay assessments. They are more associated with tort claims than with matters involving the payment of assessments owed to a community association. Consequently, this distinction makes punitive damages an option that is not included in a lien for assessments.