Q: Our homeowners’ association has a new board that is currently working on the transition from the builder. Residents have become quite vocal, and complaints are numerous about general association matters and other residents. A resident set up a …
Weighing the Costs: Common Sense/‘Cents’ COVID-19 Measures for Community Associations Reopening Common Elements and Common Facilities
One full year into the COVID-19 pandemic and people have really started to appreciate (or abhor) their neighbors. The extra time at home or stuck in one’s condominium unit has caused an increased sense of awareness and, in some cases, …
Responsibility for Tree Branches and Roots
Who is responsible for a tree branch that perilously hangs over a neighbor’s house or yard? Who is responsible for tree roots that are damaging a sidewalk or driveway?
Florida common law provides that a property owner (owner …
Amending Governing Documents Part II – How?
In Part I of this two-part series, we discussed the importance of amending governing documents. Part II discusses tips on how a board of directors can put itself in the best position to have the proposed amendments approved by the …
Does a Community Association Board President Have Executive Action Authority or Unilateral Powers?
Community associations are not administered by a single director or officer of the board, instead, the affairs of such associations are administered by its board. The articles of incorporation and/or bylaws of an association most often specify the required minimum …
Access to Minutes, Violation Letters?
Q: There are numerous parking violations and pet violations occurring in my condominium community. I don’t believe the board and manager are taking proper enforcement actions. Are owners entitled to review board meeting minutes to see what, if anything, …
IN THE MEDIA: Jennifer Horan
Jennifer Horan has spent over twelve years addressing and resolving a myriad of issues facing community, condo, and homeowners’ associations. Below is a collection of her insights regarding association board roles and responsibilities, managing disputes, COVID-19 health and safety protocols …
E-Mail Inspection Rights Questioned
Q: A member of our homeowners’ association board shared a few e-mails that were sent between board members. In these e-mails, the board members discussed association business, individual homeowners, and how they planned to handle certain decisions. Are these …
Hotel Condominium Units – What Are You Buying?
When teaching contract law to my undergraduate students at Florida International University, I always begin with a question: “How many of you sign a contract without reading it?” A simple question and one would think that everyone reads before they …