Category Archives: HOA Condo Association
How Do Condo Associations Handle Easements?
An easement is defined as a right to use or enter onto another person’s property in a limited way without possessing it. While it may seem strange, there are in truth many easements in use in every city nowadays, from beach paths to utility easements for hanging electric wires. Condominium associations, however, have a… Read More »
Security Cameras & Privacy Issues In Condo Associations
In this day and age, where privacy is under attack, the issue of installing security cameras in one’s condominium association can be highly controversial. There are points against and in favor of their installation, but the ultimate decision will rest with the condo board most of the time – as long as they comply… Read More »
When Is A Special Assessment Improper?
In a condominium association, no one likes paying dues. However, the complaints get even worse when special assessments are levied. In Florida, a special assessment can be levied in a condo association or homeowners’ association (HOA) when an unforeseen expense not included in the budget becomes necessary to pay. When they follow proper procedure,… Read More »
Clarifying Changes To Laws On HOA Parking
Prior to mid-2024, most Florida homeowners’ associations (HOAs) barred pickup trucks and ‘commercial vehicles’ (standard size vehicles with commercial advertising on them) from being parked in driveways or in other places where they are clearly visible, citing primarily aesthetic objections. In 2024, however, the relevant law was adapted, essentially precluding HOAs from restricting parking… Read More »
Explaining Fiduciary Duty For Condominium Associations
While many may treat being part of a condo board as no big deal, it carries a heavy weight when it comes to doing right by the association’s members. Every board member owes what is known as a fiduciary duty to the association and the owners in it – and, if it is breached,… Read More »
Florida-Friendly Landscaping Laws & HOAs
In 2009, the Florida legislature passed a law permitting homeowners and community associations to create lawns using “Florida-friendly landscaping” – that is, lawns which require minimal upkeep and do not overtax the environment. However, many HOAs also have restrictive covenants enforcing a similar aesthetic on each parcel. If you are a Florida homeowner, it… Read More »
Florida Fireworks Law Can Affect Your Holiday Celebrations
Because of Florida’s sunny weather in months where northern climates are snowed in, fireworks are a more common part of holiday celebrations than they might be in other locales. The December holidays are no exception – particularly New Year’s Eve, when every municipality has their own fireworks show. That said, if you live in… Read More »
What Is A Condo Association’s Duty To Federal Authorities?
A condominium board has certain duties toward the unit owners that make up the association, but they also have duties and responsibilities to outside forces. Federal authorities are empowered by U.S. law, and often by the actions of the executive branch of the government, and in general, when there is potential for a confrontation… Read More »
Noise Complaints In Florida Condominiums
For many years, Florida courts have consistently recognized that in order to live in a condominium association, each owner must give up “a certain degree of freedom of choice” that they might have if they lived in a free-standing home. This is particularly evident when dealing with noise complaints – concerns like soundproofing can… Read More »
Revitalizing Your Florida HOA’s Covenants & Restrictions
Chapter 712 of the Florida Statutes is referred to as the Marketable Record Title Act (MRTA). It holds that all interests in real property will expire after 30 years, unless the compliance procedures in Chapter 712 are followed. While this excludes some types of community associations, such as condominium associations and co-ops, it does… Read More »