How long does HOA or condo application approval take?
By Dommek ยท Updated
HOA and condo application approval usually takes one to three weeks. Across 1,800+ applications approved on Dommek in Florida, the median time from submission to approval was 14 days, and half were approved within 9 to 23 days. The timeline is set by each association's governing documents and depends on screening, board meeting schedules and whether the application is complete.
How long does approval take in practice?
Dommek data from Florida associations shows what applicants can realistically expect. Of the 1,800+ purchase and lease applications approved through Dommek between May 2025 and September 2026, the median time from submission to approval was 14 days. A quarter were approved within 9 days, and three quarters within 23 days. The remaining quarter took longer; the factors below are the usual reasons a timeline stretches. These figures cover 170+ associations and measure calendar days from the moment the application was submitted to the recorded approval.
| Share of approved applications | Approved within |
|---|---|
| 25% | 9 days |
| 50% (median) | 14 days |
| 75% | 23 days |
What happens after you submit an HOA application?
Once every required applicant has submitted a complete application and paid the fee, the management company takes over. It orders any background and credit checks the association requires, reviews the file for missing items and forwards the package to the association's board. The board reviews the application, sometimes asks for an interview or orientation, and votes to approve or deny. On Dommek, you receive an "Application Completed" email when your part is done and an approval or denial notice by email once the board decides.
What determines how long approval takes?
The biggest factor is the association itself. Its governing documents set the approval process and any deadline the board must meet, and those rules differ from one community to the next.
- Board schedule: some boards approve on a rolling basis, others only at monthly meetings
- Screening: background and credit checks take longer when records span several states
- Completeness: a missing applicant, signature or document pauses the review
- Interviews: associations that require an in-person or virtual interview add a scheduling step
- Two associations: communities with a master and a sub-association may review separately
How can I avoid delays?
Most delays come from incomplete files. Apply as early as your contract or lease allows, and make sure everyone who must apply does so: all individuals on the sales contract or lease, plus every occupant age 18 or older (married couples can usually file one joint application). Upload every document on the association's list, answer requests from the management company quickly, and don't dispute the application charge with your bank. A disputed payment can put the application on hold.
How do I check the status of my application?
Status updates are sent to the email address on your application throughout the process. If the association needs more information, the management company will contact you directly. To make changes after submitting, contact the management company, since the review is handled by the association rather than by Dommek.
Should I schedule my closing or move-in before approval?
Build the association's approval period into your closing or move-in date rather than assuming a quick turnaround. Many sales contracts and leases in HOA and condo communities are contingent on association approval, so check the timeline in the governing documents and confirm it with the management company before committing to a date.