Bill > HB1221

This bill requires property owners' associations (POAs) to follow specific steps before they can collect or be awarded attorney's fees for outstanding fines or delinquent fees owed by a lot owner. First, the association must send an initial written notice via certified mail or statutory overnight delivery to the lot owner, clearly identifying any unpaid fines or fees. The lot owner then has 30 days from receiving this notice to pay the outstanding amounts. Additionally, the association must provide an itemized list of any attorney's fees they are claiming. For cases going to a judge in a bench trial (a trial without a jury), the judge must review these claimed attorney's fees to determine if they are reasonable and issue an order stating their reasonableness before the association can be awarded them. This new process aims to ensure transparency and fairness in how POAs handle the collection of debts and associated legal costs.

Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/72911