Question: Our subdivision has 20 platted lots. At the time of initial development, one owner purchased two lots and built one home on the combined lots. Our homeowners’ association has only assessed this owner as if he only …
Grilling on the Balcony: What is Permissible in Florida Condominiums?
Question: My unit has a screened balcony (some people call it a “lanai”). I understand that I cannot use a gas grill out there, but I enjoy using my electric grill when the weather is nice. The association …
Are Skylights A Window or Part of the Roof?
Question: I live in condominium consisting of 46 free-standing single family homes; 22 of them were built with skylights. During the rainy season, my roof developed a leak originating from the skylight. When I reported the leak, …
Town Hall Meetings Can Trigger Sunshine Law
Question: Our community holds monthly “informational” meetings, held right before the board’s regular meeting. All members are encouraged to attend, and the manager is there as well. Board members do not “run” the meeting, but …
Construction Lien Law Can Result In Condominium Associations Paying Twice For the Same Work
Question: Our condominium association is going to re-roof all of the condominium buildings this winter. In my home state, there was a “mechanics lien law” which applied to repairs of this nature. Does Florida have a “mechanics …
HOA Reserves Generally Within Board’s Discretion
Question: The board of directors of my homeowners’ association has decided to “roll over” the surplus funds from our 2013 budget into a non-statutory pooled reserve account. Last year they overstated the amount necessary for …
Board Talking About Switching Over to “Pooled” Reserves
Question: Our board of directors has been talking about switching over to “pooled” reserves. Can you explain what this means?
L.A. (via e-mail) Answer: The concept of funding condominium reserves …
Management Company / Resident Conflict of Interest?
Q&A: The owner of the management company is also a resident/property owner in our community. Some of us feel that this creates a conflict of interest. What is your opinion on this?
Cleaning Up Property Not As Easy As It Looks
Our homeowner’s association is considering taking on the task of fixing abandoned properties to preserve property values and to make the community more attractive to potential buyers.