What can happen if a member has an unpaid assessment in a community association?

The correct answer highlights an important aspect of community association management regarding financial obligations. When a member of a community association has an unpaid assessment, the association has the legal right to place a lien on the member's property. This means that the association can secure the debt against the member's property, effectively making it a claim on the property until the debt is satisfied.

This lien serves several purposes. It provides a mechanism for the association to enforce collection of the assessment, as the member cannot sell or refinance the property without paying off the lien. This legal tool ensures that associations can maintain financial stability and fund necessary services and upkeep for the community.

The other options do not accurately reflect the typical procedures regarding unpaid assessments. For instance, automatic expulsion or the inability to attend meetings may not be standard practices and can vary based on the governing documents of the community association. Additionally, forgiving the debt is not a common policy, as associations depend on assessments to operate effectively. Hence, the establishment of a lien becomes the most relevant and enforceable action associated with unpaid assessments.