Q: When a bank sends a request for an HOA to prepare an estoppel certificate in connection with a sale, may the HOA charge the client a fee?
A: Yes. Pursuant to Chapter 720.30851, Florida Statutes, the HOA may charge a fee. It must prepare the estoppel certificate within 15 days of the demand and may charge a fee for its preparation. However, the fee must be clearly marked on the certificate itself, and the authority to charge the fee should be established by a written resolution adopted by the association board or provided for by a written management, bookkeeping or maintenance contract.