An estoppel certificate is a signed statement in which a tenant confirms the key facts of their lease, such as the rent, deposit, and term, usually requested when the property is being sold or refinanced. Once you sign it, you can generally be held to those stated facts, so any errors you confirm can later count against you.
In short
An estoppel certificate is a signed statement in which a tenant confirms the key facts of their lease, such as the rent, deposit, and term, usually requested when the property is being sold or refinanced. Once you sign it, you can generally be held to those stated facts, so any errors you confirm can later count against you.
By signing an estoppel certificate you lock in the facts a buyer or lender will rely on, so verifying every detail first prevents a mistake from quietly waiving your rights.
Confirms the lease terms in writing for a buyer or lender
Commonly requested during a sale or refinance
Once signed, you can be bound by the facts you confirmed
Should match your actual lease and side agreements
Errors you confirm may waive a right or claim
Whether you're required to sign depends on your lease and state law
Sometimes. Many leases require tenants to provide one when asked, but whether you're obligated depends on your lease and state law. Either way, review it carefully first.
If you sign it, you can generally be held to the facts it states, even if they're wrong. That's why you should correct any error before signing.
Usually because the property is being sold or refinanced, and the buyer or lender wants confirmation of your lease terms. It protects them by locking in the facts you confirm.
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