While many board members are already informed about the new laws, some may not be, so this article serves as a helpful reminder. If you believe your board may not be fully compliant with the new laws, consider raising your concerns respectfully and privately with board members. Addressing matters one-on-one helps avoid any unintended embarrassment and often leads to a more constructive conversation.

Recent Florida legislation (HB 1021) was passed addressing issues that impact condo associations. 

The bill includes the following:

  • Set criminal penalties for condominium board members who accept kickbacks; engage in voting fraud related to board elections; or fail to maintain or provide access to public records.
  • Prohibit associations from retaliating against unit owners by suing them for defamation or increasing assessments.
  • Require new board directors to undergo four hours of mandatory training on inspections, recordkeeping, financial literacy and more. All directors must undergo an hour of continuing education annually. (Classes have not yet been established)
  • Requires that in a condominium association with more than 10 units, the board must meet at least once each quarter.
  • At least four times each year, the meeting agenda must include an opportunity for members to ask questions of the board.
  • Unit owners have the right to speak at board meetings with reference to all designated agenda items and to ask questions relating to various association matters, such as the status of construction or repair projects, the status of revenues and expenditures, and other issues affecting the condominium.
  • If an agenda item relates to the approval of a contract for goods or services, a copy of the contract must be provided with the meeting notice and made available for inspection and copying upon written request or made available on the association’s website or mobile app.
  • Prior to October 1, 2024, associations will be required to provide a physical or digital copy of the Association’s rules and covenants to every member of the Association and to every new member of the Association thereafter.