Recent Blog Posts
Even More Changes For Florida Homeowners’ Associations
The parade of legislative changes in Florida continues in mid-2024, as several laws signed by the governor in recent months begin to take effect. Some of the most notable involve community association boards, particularly homeowners’ associations (HOAs). HB 1203 was signed into law in May 2024, and was hailed at the time as a… Read More »
New Law Means Less Time To Sue For Construction Defects
On July 1, 2024, the grace period that allowed homeowners and homeowners’ associations (HOAs) in Florida to file suit against builders over construction defects for up to 10 years ran out. Now, a law passed in 2023 comes into effect, lowering that window of time to only 7 years. This may not seem like… Read More »
Is It My Duty As A Homeowner To Maintain The Seawall?
A seawall is a type of structure designed to protect the coast from erosion and other environmental issues. Most of those in Florida are made of steel and concrete, though as the older models need replacing, other substances are being used that are seen as more environmentally friendly. When a seawall needs work or… Read More »
Preparing For The Next Hurricane: Steps For Condo Boards To Take
Florida is the U.S. state most affected by hurricanes, with something like 40 percent of all recorded hurricanes since the late 19th century making landfall there. The National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is reporting that this year’s hurricane season will continue to be active as well, with two named storms already hitting southern… Read More »
Landlord Dos & Don’ts In Florida
Between the increased responsibility and the change to one’s finances, becoming a landlord is a major life event. However, it is unfortunately all too common for new landlords to not have a solid grasp on what they can and cannot do under Florida and U.S. law – and denying the rights of one’s tenants,… Read More »
Changes To HOA Laws Encourage Transparency For Owners
In the last few years, Florida’s legislature has enacted several new measures designed to make real estate transactions more transparent, particularly in homeowners’ associations (HOAs). Two more are set to come into effect later in 2024, and both owners and HOA board members should familiarize themselves with their requirements. One has to do with… Read More »
New Post-Surfside Law Creates Problems For Condo Buyers
In 2021, the partial collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside, FL killed 98 people and led to major legislative changes in how condo boards do business in the state. The legislature passed significant reforms in 2022-23, requiring recertification of buildings over three stories tall, as well as a mandate for each building to… Read More »
The Rights & Responsibilities Of A Florida Landlord
Both landlords and tenants have specifically defined rights under Florida law, and both have responsibilities they must take seriously. A landlord, in particular, has both a fair amount of leeway and a heavy burden of responsibility in dealing with their tenant(s). That said, first-time landlords may not fully understand what they must do, and… Read More »
Can A Florida HOA Sue A Homeowner?
Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) in Florida generally try to settle disputes with parcel owners via meetings or alternative dispute resolution options like mediation. If all other options have been exhausted, a homeowner may file suit against their HOA, but it is also more common for the HOA to file suit against the owner. There are… Read More »
Deed Fraud In Florida
When you believe that you have finally found the Florida home you have always dreamed of, it can be tempting to simply rush through to closing on the sale. However, one of the most important services that a Florida real estate attorney can provide is to ensure that the deed to the home is… Read More »