Issues facing Condo Associations in Florida - What to Know

[Joe Morello]

Florida condominium associations are currently navigating significant challenges due to recent legislative changes and rising insurance costs. These issues have been exacerbated by new regulations following the tragic Surfside condo collapse.

Legislative Changes:

Recent legislation in Florida, such as Senate Bill 4D, has introduced stringent requirements for condominium associations. This includes mandatory structural inspections for buildings over 30 years old and the elimination of the option to waive reserve contributions. Associations must now conduct a Structural Integrity Reserve Study (SIRS) to ensure they have adequate funds for necessary repairs and maintenance. These changes aim to prevent future tragedies but have also led to increased financial burdens on condo owners, as maintenance fees are expected to rise significantly.

Insurance Costs:

In addition to legislative pressures, Florida condo associations are facing skyrocketing insurance costs. This increase is partly due to fraudulent insurance claims and the aftermath of the Surfside collapse, which have made insurers more cautious. As a result, many condo associations are raising dues and issuing special assessments to cover these costs.

Impact and Solutions:

The combination of new regulations and rising costs is creating a financial strain on many condo owners, especially those in older buildings. Some associations may find it financially unviable to maintain their properties, leading to potential sales of condo properties to developers. To navigate these challenges, condo associations need to be proactive in exploring their options and seeking legal counsel to ensure compliance and financial stability, and condo owners need to consult experienced agents on what to do, whether they're looking to buy or sell.