The 2024 Florida Legislative Session ended Friday, March 8th, and it was one of the busiest sessions in memory in terms of producing new community association legislation. Please remember that these bills do not become law until they have been sent to the Governor who then has fifteen (15) days to sign a bill, veto […]
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Community Update – December 2023
A new year means new goals! As we turn the corner into 2024, this issue of CUP spotlights helpful tips so your community association can start the year off right. This includes adoption of the annual budget, a review of new legislation, and the responsibilities of residents in communal situations. Don’t miss our featured podcast […]
Read MoreMission Complete! Becker’s Board Member Bootcamp Dubbed a Huge Success
“I think every member of the board should attend these” “An engaging presentation” “The content is great” “This gets us excited to be board members” “I’ve learned so much” On November 14, more than 150 board members and managers from across South Florida gathered in Davie for Becker’s […]
Read More2024 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America Recognizes 34 Becker Attorneys
The 2024 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®, one of the oldest and most revered peer review publications, recognizes 34 Becker attorneys across the Firm’s practices. Our own Steven B. Lesser, was also recognized as Lawyer of the Year, a distinction based on the highest overall peer feedback for their specialty and location. Lesser […]
Read More55+ Communities – Do I Still Need a Survey Every 2 Years?
Effective July 1, 2020, the Florida legislature eliminated the requirement for 55+ communities to register with the Florida Commission on Human Relations (“FCHR”), and eliminated the need to submit a letter to the FCHR every two years stating that the association complies with the requirements to be considered housing for older persons under state and […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – October 2023
Special Notice TEN-HUT BOARD MEMBERS AND MANAGERS! The Buzz is in the air… Becker’s Board Member Boot Camp is RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER! Join us on Tuesday, November 14, from 9:30AM – 3PM EST, at the Signature Grand, in Davie, Florida. Come prepared to be put through your paces by veteran community association attorneys, Donna […]
Read MoreBoot Camp for Board Members: Army Vet, PCAM and Becker Shareholder, Howard Perl, Discusses the Benefits of Rigorous Board Member Education
For more episodes of Take It To The Board, click here! This week, our guest and Becker Shareholder, Howard Perl, sits down with host Donna DiMaggio Berger to share his experiences as both an army veteran as well as a successful PCAM before going to law school later in life. Howard recounts his unique journey from joining the […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – March 2023
This month, we shine a spotlight on potential issues for community associations. From developer turnover to litigation to new laws regarding emotional support animals, we provide practical guidance to help steer you and your community in the right direction. Holding political events are afforded a limited degree of protection under the Florida Condominium Act. Marty […]
Read MoreNew Laws Regarding Emotional Support Animals
Nothing evokes more of an “emotional” response than the issue of emotional support animals in a no-pet community. While this is not a new issue, and has been discussed many times in this forum and others, Florida laws affect how a community handles a request for a reasonable accommodation to its governing documents, rules and […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – February 2023
Spring is the season of new beginnings and a reminder of how nice change can be. This month, we spotlight timely issues and provide guidance for you and your community to move forward. Our featured articles explore various topics from condo safety regulations and hurricane repairs to combatting growing hate crimes inside community associations. Also featured this month is the board […]
Read MoreTimesavers at Annual/Election Meetings
Proxies and Limited Proxies In condominiums and cooperatives, general proxies are used for establishment of a quorum and limited proxies are used to vote on a particular matter – amendments, waive reserves or financial reporting requirements, etc. It is only in homeowners associations when proxies may also be used for elections. Proxies and limited proxies […]
Read MoreLender Questionnaires
Associations and association managers routinely receive what are referred to as lender questionnaires on a regular basis.
A lender questionnaire is usually a request from a bank, lending institution or title company that requests the Association provide information about the community to the lender. Such requested information generally includes request
Read MoreCandid Conversations on Community Association Living
Becker’s Take It To The Board podcast, hosted by shareholder Donna DiMaggio Berger, explores the reality of life in a community association. Among many special guests, nine Becker attorneys from across the firm, have appeared and discussed their area of expertise as it relates to community living. Tune in for these candid discussions which just might […]
Read More“Tips, Tricks and Things You Can Mix” – FCAP Managers Report
Timesavers Proxies and Limited Proxies In condominiums and cooperatives, general proxies are used for establishment of a quorum and limited proxies are used to vote on a particular matter – amendments, waive reserves or financial reporting requirements, etc. In homeowner associations proxies may also be used for elections. Proxies and limited proxies are not secret. […]
Read MoreWebinar: The Who What When and Where of Covenant Enforcement
Join us for this highly anticipated webinar about the different methods of covenant enforcement, how to enforce covenants and collect fines, and what the possible defenses to enforcement are that an association could face. This program is not eligible for CEU credit or certificate of completion. SPEAKERS: Howard J. Perl SHAREHOLDER Ft. Lauderdale Becker […]
Read More2023 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America Recognizes 33 Becker Attorneys
The 2023 edition of The Best Lawyers in America®, one of the oldest and most revered peer review publications, honors 33 Becker attorneys across the Firm’s practices. Two Becker attorneys, Joseph Adams and Sanjay Kurian, were also recognized as Lawyer of the Year, a distinction that comes with the highest overall peer feedback for their […]
Read MoreWebinar: Vetting Vendors and Contracts
This program is not eligible for CEU credit or certificate of completion. Choosing the right vendors for your association is an important task for every board. Vetting those vendors is just the first step. Join Becker Shareholders Howard Perl and Robyn Severs as they walk you through the process from start to finish. Competitive […]
Read More“2022 Community Association Legislation – What Happened?” – FCAP Managers Report
After the Surfside tragedy, everyone wanted to know how such a tragedy could happen and what steps could be taken to avoid similar incidents in the future. What caused the collapse? Could it have been avoided? Why were repairs not made? Why did local governments allow repairs to drag on? Why were repairs not made […]
Read More“Board Member Tidbits” – FCAP Managers Report
For this article, I thought I would jump around and discuss various items regarding board members, board meetings and a few association operational issues that keep popping up as questions and issues. Board member certification. Let’s start with the board member certification requirement, which applies to condominiums, homeowner associations and cooperative association board members. Within […]
Read MoreConversations on Community Association Living
Becker’s Take It To The Board podcast, hosted by shareholder Donna DiMaggio Berger, explores the reality of life in a community association, what’s really involved in serving on its board, and how to maintain that ever-so-delicate balance of being legally compliant and community spirited. Episodes feature a variety of guests including association leaders, experts, and […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – December 2021
Before heading into the New Year, we look back at the year’s most popular reads. This month’s featured articles highlight the topics you found most interesting in 2021 – from fining committees to questions about remote meetings. From all of us at Becker, we wish you a happy holiday and a joyous, healthy, and prosperous […]
Read More“Attention to Detail” – FCAP Managers Report
Attention to detail. A simple phrase that’s not always so simple to comply with, especially in a community association context. There are several technical provisions in the statutes governing community associations that must be complied with. Chapters 607, 617, 718, 719, and 720, Florida Statutes have numerous requirements that associations must adhere to. A few […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – August 2021
Have you had a chance to check out Becker’s new podcast, “Take It To the Board with Donna DiMaggio Berger?” The podcast explores the reality of life in a community association, what’s really involved in serving on its board, and how to maintain the ever-so-delicate balance of being legally compliant and community spirited. Check out this month’s […]
Read MoreRules and Refereeing with Howard Perl
For more episodes of Take It To The Board, click here! Even as children, enforcing the rules that kept games playful didn’t always make you very popular with your peers. Association board members and managers will tell you that, when it comes to maintaining a community of adult homeowners, not much has changed since those […]
Read MoreWebinar: Tips, Tricks and Updates: Property and Casualty Insurance – How to Avoid Common and Costly Mistakes
Property and Casualty Insurance is one of the largest line items on every association’s budget. With rates continually on the rise, it’s important for board members and managers to learn how to maximize the benefit and manage risk to avoid costly and unnecessary expense. Topics include: What can an association do to keep its insurance […]
Read More2022 Edition of The Best Lawyers in America Recognizes 25 Becker Attorneys
The 2022 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® honors 25 Becker attorneys across the Firm’s practices. Best Lawyers is one of the oldest and most respected peer review publications in the legal profession. Becker congratulates its attorneys on their recognition as among the best and brightest lawyers in the United States. Perry M. Adair, […]
Read More“Hurricane Preparation” – FCAP Managers Report
Yes, it’s that time of year again. The six month long hurricane season in South Florida. South Florida has seen an increase in hurricane activity over the past years, and that is expected to continue this year. Let’s look at some ways community associations to prepare for such storms. Information on how to prepare for […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – May 2021
This month, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of new community association podcast, “Take it to the Board with Donna DiMaggio Berger.” The podcast explores the reality of life in a community association, what’s really involved in serving on its board, and how to maintain the ever-so-delicate balance of being legally compliant and community spirited. Check out […]
Read More“Know When To Call Your Professional” – FCAP Managers Report
What a year. Because of COVID-19 issues, associations have dealt with owners working from home, children remote learning, contractor issues, common area issues, the pool, the gym, the visitors, the cleaning, the quarantine, the masks, and so on. Quite a year indeed. Many associations have spent more time speaking with their attorney, and hopefully insurance […]
Read More“What It Means To Me To Have Served In The Military” – Community Living
In 1975 I joined the military as a 17-year-old right out of high school. I always wanted to be in the military and felt everyone should serve this great country of ours in one way or another. I served three years as an enlisted man, then received my officer’s commission through the ROTC program. I […]
Read MoreWebinar: Enforcement Strategies for Associations
The adoption and enforcement of rules are the means by which a community defines and preserves a lifestyle. Consistency in enforcement is critical and has never been more critical than it is now, during a life-threatening pandemic. Board members and property managers need to be aware of their responsibility to enforce the rules and how […]
Read More“New Laws Regarding Emotional Support Animals” – FCAP Managers Report
Other than political debate, perhaps nothing else evokes more of an “emotional” response than the issue of emotional support animals in a no pet community. While this is not a new issue, and has been discussed many times in this forum and others, new laws in Florida may affect how your community may handle a […]
Read MoreCOVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Presents New Challenges for Boards and Their Management Professionals
The unprecedented challenges of this year have been difficult for us all. These challenges are magnified for volunteer board members having to make hard decisions which impact not only themselves, but their family, friends, and neighbors. As we turn to a new year, exciting news of advancements and wider distribution of COVID-19 vaccines appear on […]
Read MoreEpisode 20: Association Hurricane Shutdowns – “Can They Do That?”
“A hurricane is a few days away from landfall near my condominium. The association sent a notice that elevators and the building air conditioning will be shutdown for 36 hours before landfall. Can they do that?” Becker Shareholder Howard J. Perl discusses in a brand new episode! When it comes to association rules and bylaws, […]
Read MoreWebinar: Community Associations in the Age of COVID-19: What Does the Future Hold?
As Florida’s COVID-19 numbers continue to rise, how do volunteer boards safeguard community residents and navigate guidelines and protocols? What can a board do in response to the COVID-19 pandemic? How can your professionals assist the board in these processes? Watch the replay of this in-depth discussion with leading experts from Becker, AKAM, USI Insurance […]
Read More“Back to Basics” – FCAP Managers Report
There are articles every month covering community association issues, which you can find from a plethora of sources. This magazine, other similar magazines, national magazines, newspaper articles, everyone’s favorite blog, attorney resources, Internet, etc. Most of these articles deal with specific issues, such as short term rentals, or emotional support animals, or the latest case […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – September 2019
As technology moves forward, community associations are becoming more and more self-sufficient. This is, at its core, a great thing. Associations can run their own websites and their own social media, among other activities. It’s important, however, that with this new freedom board members also remain informed on best practices. This month’s spotlight article, “Attorneys […]
Read MoreEpisode 07: Visitors at All Hours of The Night – “Can They Do That?”
A neighbor is running a home business and customers are coming at all hours of the night and disrupting other homeowners. Can they do that? Find out in Episode 07! When it comes to association rules and bylaws, there seem to be more questions than answers. Becker’s video series, “Can They Do That?” tackles some […]
Read More25 Becker Attorneys Board Certified in Condominium and Planned Development Law
Becker’s Community Association practice group has been an industry leader since we opened our doors in 1973. Today, we’re proud to announce that we have the largest, dedicated team of Board Certified attorneys in Condominium and Planned Development Law in the state of Florida. Board certification demands rigorous testing and is in recognition of […]
Read MoreEight Becker Attorneys Newly Board Certified in Condominium & Planned Development Law
June 3, 2019 – Ft. Lauderdale, FL – We are pleased to announce that eight Becker attorneys are newly minted as Florida Bar Board Certified in Condominium & Planned Development Law. The specialty encompasses the practice of law that involves representing community associations and their members, property owners, sellers, purchasers, developers, lenders, governmental agencies, and […]
Read More“Can My Association Board Pass a Rule Regarding That?” – FCAP Managers Report
You attend your association’s monthly board of directors meeting because you notice an item on the agenda that piques your interest. The board of directors is scheduled to consider and pass a rule regarding _________ (you fill in the blank). You ask yourself “Can they do that?” The answer, as it is many times, is […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – December 2018
As 2018 comes to a close, we look back at a selection of our most popular Community Update articles. From changes in law to navigating and implementing rules for your association, here are the top five most read articles from this year. For those concerned with regulating smoking in the common areas of your association, Smoking […]
Read More“Condominium Association Statutory Required Websites – Facts and Myths” – FCAP Managers Report
Section 718.111(12)(g), Florida Statutes, was added to Chapter 718, Florida Statutes in 2017, requiring that by July 1, 2018, an association with 150 or more units which does not manage timeshare units is required to post digital copies of the documents specified in the section on its website, and lists specific documents that are required […]
Read More28 Becker Attorneys Named as Super Lawyers
Becker proudly congratulates our attorneys selected as Super Lawyers. As of 2018, we boast 28 lawyers who have received this prestigious designation. Please click on their names to read more about each of these attorneys. Super Lawyer Recipients: Joseph E. Adams*, Real Estate (Office Managing Shareholder, Fort Myers/Naples) Hugo V. Alvarez, Insurance Coverage Disputes, Real Estate […]
Read MoreShow me the Money: Crafting Successful Collection & Foreclosure Strategies for Community Associations
December 5, 2017 Start: 2:00 PM End: 4:00 PM Show Me The Money: Crafting Successful Collection & Foreclosure Strategies for Community Associations Provider #0000811, Course #9625735, 2 IFM/ELEPresented by: K. Joy Mattingly, Esq. and Howard J. Perl, Esq. Are collection issues still plaguing your association? Are bank foreclosures dragging on for years with no end […]
Read MoreCANCELLED: Show me the Money: Crafting Successful Collection & Foreclosure Strategies for Community Associations
September 14, 2017 Start: 10:00 AM End: 12:00 PM Due to Hurricane Irma, this course is cancelled. It will be rescheduled in the near future. – Thank you Show Me The Money: Crafting Successful Collection & Foreclosure Strategies for Community Associations Provider #0000811, Course #9625735, 2 IFM/ELE Presented by: K. Joy Mattingly, Esq. and Howard […]
Read MoreCommunity Association Board Members Can be Considered Limited Purpose Public Figures in Defamation Cases
There is a growing body of case law around the country which would make it more difficult for an allegedly defamed community association board member to successfully pursue his or her day in court. Is a community association board member an average, private citizen or is a community association board member really a special category […]
Read MoreManager’s Minute, 2016, October
Welcome to this issue of Manager’s Minute! Can you believe we are in the home stretch of the end of the year? Boy, did this year fly by. Lots of action in the community association field as well – important court rulings, HUD guidance on using criminal background checks to deny applicants and residents creating hostile environments […]
Read MoreManager’s Minute, 2016, March
Manager’s Minute, 2016, January
Manager’s Minute, 2015, October
Manager’s Minute, 2015, August
Manager’s Minute, 2015, June
Manager’s Minute, 2015, May
Manager’s Minute, 2015, April
Manager’s Minute, 2015, January/February
Manager’s Minute, 2014, December
Manager’s Minute, 2014, October
Manager’s Minute, 2014, September
Becker & Poliakoff Welcomes Howard J. Perl To Community Association Law Practice Group March 17, 2014
FT. LAUDERDALE, March 17, 2014 – Becker & Poliakoff today announced that attorney Howard J. Perl has joined the firm as a shareholder in the Ft. Lauderdale office. Mr. Perl practices in the firm’s Community Association Law practice group. Mr. Perl has been involved in all aspects of community association law, including transactional, collections, mediation, arbitration, construction […]
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