Last year, there were numerous legislative updates affecting condo and homeowners associations across Florida. Many are aimed at improving transparency, safety and the general well-being of the community. You can read more here for a summary of the changes affecting HOAs. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the updated laws impacting condo associations.
Summary of House Bill 1021
House Bill 1021 aims to address key issues affecting Florida’s condo communities. It amends several sections of Florida Statute §718. Here’s a breakdown of some of the key aspects of the bill and what they mean for Florida condo associations. Keep in mind this list is by no means exhaustive. If you have questions about Florida community law or how legislative updates impact your community, please reach out to our team at Dania Fernandez Law, P.A.
- Digital records storage – Condo associations must maintain official records for at least 7 years unless governing documents require a longer period. By January 1, 2026, all condo associations with 25+ units must maintain digital copies of most of the association’s official records, including financial records, building permits and completed board member education certificates for at least 7 years. This move is intended to improve transparency and accessibility of information for all members.
- Board meeting requirements – Condo associations with more than 10 units must hold at least one board meeting each quarter. Members will have the right to ask questions related to construction and repair updates, financial matters and other association issues. Additionally, if a meeting agenda includes contract approvals for goods or services, a copy of the contract must be included in the meeting notice and made accessible to members either upon request or through the association’s website or mobile app.
- Director education requirements – Newly elected and existing board members must complete and submit both a written certification affirming their commitment to association documents and a state-approved educational certificate. The educational program must be at least four hours and cover essential topics such as milestone inspections, structural integrity and financial transparency. Directors must comply with these new requirements by June 30, 2025, if appointed before July 1, 2024. Certificates are valid for seven years as long as there’s no interruption in service. Additionally, directors must complete at least one hour of annual continuing education on relevant legislative changes. This requirement aims to enhance directors’ knowledge and competence in managing COA affairs, which is an area we’ve pushed for and encouraged for years.
- Structural Integrity Reserve Study (SIRS) – One of the primary areas that House Bill 1021 targets is the structural safety of condominium buildings, especially those that are several decades old. To ensure long-term safety and integrity, the bill requires older condo buildings to undergo regular structural inspections. For condo associations, this means a new level of responsibility to schedule, fund and comply with these mandated inspections.
- Hurricane protection – This law, which applies to all residential and mixed-use condominiums statewide, defines “hurricane protection” to include code-compliant installations like shutters, impact glass and reinforced windows. Legislative updates require condominium declarations to specify whether owners or associations are responsible for the maintenance and repair of such protections. A vote is required iA intends to add hurricane protection to common areas, vote is required if an association intends to add hurricane protection to common areas.
These and other legislative updates brought forth in House Bill 1021 work to increase safety, accountability and transparency for Florida condo associations. If you have any questions about how to navigate these new requirements or ensure your association is compliant, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced team at Dania Fernandez & Associates, P.A. by calling 305-254-4492.
