Hotline Tip: What Fee Can I Charge For Performing an Inspection?

What are the procedures a Notary must follow when inspecting a Homeowner's Association Election, and what fees may I charge? – F.N., Tarzana, CA

In acting as an independent third party to inspect and guarantee the integrity of a homeowner’s association election, you are not acting in the capacity of a Notary Public — there are no signatures you are notarizing and you are not placing your seal impression on anything — therefore, there are no set fees. Because you are not performing a notarial act, you may ask for whatever fee you think is reasonable, or negotiate with the entity that is seeking your services.

To find out more about acting in the role of an independent party in such matters, you can read the California Civil Code, Section 1363.03, specifically sub-sections [c][2], [3] and [4].

Hotline answers are based on the laws in the state where the question originated and may not reflect the laws of other states. If in doubt, always refer to your own state statutes. — The Editors