Chapter 720 — Board Certification
Florida law requires HOA board members to certify their knowledge of the governing documents and their fiduciary duties. "Volunteer" does not mean unaccountable.
90 Days
To certify after election or appointment
§ 720.3033
Florida Statute governing board certification
Under Section 720.3033, within 90 days of being elected or appointed to the board, each board member must do one of the following:
The board member certifies in writing that they have read the association's governing documents, will work to uphold them, and will faithfully discharge their fiduciary responsibility. This is a written certification — not a test.
The board member completes an educational curriculum approved by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The course covers HOA governance, Florida law, and fiduciary duties.
A board member who fails to comply within 90 days is suspended from the board until they comply. The remaining board members may fill the vacancy during the suspension.
Board members owe fiduciary duties to the association and its members. These duties exist regardless of whether the board member is paid or unpaid:
Board members must act with the care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in similar circumstances. This includes making informed decisions and seeking professional advice when appropriate.
Board members must act in the best interests of the association — not in their own personal interests or the interests of a select group of homeowners.
Board members must comply with Chapter 720, the governing documents, and all applicable Florida law. "I didn't know" is not a defense.
Certification records are official records of the association. You can request copies of board member certifications through a written records request under Section 720.303.
If a board member has not certified within 90 days of election, they are suspended by operation of law. If you believe a board member is serving without having certified, document your concern and consider consulting a Florida HOA attorney.
Submit a written records request for certification documents.
720 for Life provides educational information only. We are not attorneys and this website is not legal advice. Homeowners should consult a licensed Florida attorney regarding their specific situation.