LATEST NEWS & UPDATES
Associations Can Require a Key
Q: I recently received an e-mail from my condominium association asking for a key to my unit. I have a problem with the board having a key to my unit. Am I required to provide a key? Can the association enter my unit at any time? (J.M. via e-mail) A. Florida law gives...
Weathering the Storm of Unexpected Community Association Financial Needs
In Florida, particularly in the summer months, a beautiful sunny day can suddenly morph into a torrential downpour. Similarly, an association with no obvious financial problems can suddenly find itself in the perfect storm that arises when restrictive financial...
Some States are Protecting First Amendment Rights, Will the Sunshine State Follow Suite?
In 2012, the New Jersey Supreme Court ruled 5-1 that a condominium owner could place election signs on his front door and side window of his townhome over the objections of his association. Wasim Khan, an oncologist who was a Democratic candidate for the Morris County...
10 Fun Ways to Engage Your Residents
Building great relationships with your residents will lead to lease renewals, positive online reviews, referrals, and less angry phone calls. There are plenty of fun, cost-effective ways you can show your residents you care about them and their experience at your...
New Term Limit Law Not Retroactive
Q: In one of your recent columns, you wrote about a new law that imposes term limits of eight years on condominium directors. Is this retroactive? (S.L. via e-mail) A: In my opinion, no. Of course, lawyers’ opinions are just that, and what the courts have to say is...
Utility Billing: 6 Things Property Managers Need to Know
If you’re a multifamily or HOA property manager, billing your residents or homeowners for their utility use has likely crossed your mind. Many properties have already started utility billing programs. The prevalence of this practice has grown as utility rates and fees...
FL Division of Condos Proposes Greater Financial Penalties on Associations
Florida condominiums, cooperatives and, to a lesser degree, homeowners’ associations are subject to the imposition of fines and penalties by the Division of Florida Condominiums, Timeshare and Mobile Homes (“Division”) for a variety of mistakes and missteps. The...
Putting the Puzzle Together Regarding Insurance Coverage and Exclusions
In those pages and pages of insurance documents detailing your available insurance coverage you’ll also find exclusions explaining what is not covered in your insurance policy. There might, however, be some exceptions to those exclusions that should keep the claim...
Board Must Allow Renewable Energy Devices
Q: I would like to install solar panels on the roof of my home, but I did not see any standards addressing this within my homeowners’ association’s documents or architectural review guidelines. Would I be allowed to install these in order to make my home greener?...