Update on Emotional Support Animal Legislation
Q: In a recent column you said a new law passed about “emotional support animals,” which is supposed to cut down on bogus requests. When does this law take effect and what are the details? M.H. …
Mold Problem Explored
Q: My condominium unit has mold as a result of poor original construction in the 1980’s. Under the Florida Condominium Act, is the association responsible for the structural repairs of the damage caused by this mold? (S.S., via e-mail) …
Fining Procedure Discussed
Q: What is the maximum fine an association can impose on an owner for a rule violation? (H.H., via e-mail)
A: It depends. Condominium and cooperative fines are capped at $100.00 per day, and further capped at $1,000.00 …
Backyard Clothesline Causes Flap
Q: There is an ongoing dispute in my homeowners’ association concerning the installation of clotheslines that we are hoping you can resolve. Some owners have stated that they are entitled to install clotheslines on their lots without regulation by …
Surprise Audits Not Authorized
Q: Does Florida do unannounced audits of condominium or homeowners’ associations to see if they are conforming to the relevant statutes? For example, some of our board members don’t want bids for a contract even though it is required …
Transition Committee and Construction Defect Claims
Q: My new condominium will soon be turning over from the developer. I am a unit owner and have been selected to serve on the transition committee, which has been primarily tasked with determining whether the developer has any …
Lee County Wants To Speed Up The Hurricane Cleanup
Q: Lee County has information for homeowners’ association leaders. Professional property managers and residential community associations can now take steps to protect their communities in the event of a hurricane or other declared major disaster in …
Board’s Pandemic Restrictions Questioned
Q: Because of COVID-19, our homeowners’ association has prohibited guest use of our pool and fitness center. This has precluded third-party led fitness classes, even if the classes are offered outdoors. Instead, the association is allowing member-led fitness classes …
Association May Keep Unit Keys
Q: My condominium association has the digital key-code to my unit but is still insisting on having a physical key. Is the law specific on how I have granted them access to my unit? (D.L., via e-mail)
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Harassment of Disabled Persons is Illegal
Q: An owner reported to the board that another owner has been “harassing” him due to his physical disability and has asked the board to take action. Is this an association responsibility or a private matter between the two …
Use Rights Suspended for Virus Protocol Violations
Q: My homeowners’ association recently posted new rules concerning the use of our community pool in response to the coronavirus pandemic. The board stated that if the rules are violated, the association has the right to suspend the owner’s …
Association “Sunshine Laws” Explained
Q: We have a five-member board and the board has said that they are only required to post notice of a meeting when three or more board members are together. However, we have learned that often, two board members …