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Community Update – February 2024

This issue of CUP features a helpful guide for board members, information on new term limits, and tips to save money on your property taxes. Don’t miss our featured podcast episode, “Navigating Defamation Lawsuits and Non-Compete Clauses!” Employers are relying more and more on independent contractors instead of employees. While using independent contractors can have […]

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Community Update – January 2024

The 2024 Legislative Session promises to bring sweeping changes to community association operations throughout Florida. In this issue of CUP, we highlight which bills we are watching, the Corporate Transparency Act, and the possibility of self-insurance. Don’t miss our weekly online legislative briefing with Bryony Swift. Also featured this month is our popular podcast, Take […]

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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 […]

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Community Update – November 2023

As 2023 comes to an end, community associations are beginning to plan for the coming year. This issue of CUP provides helpful insight so your community can put its best foot forward. Whether you’re looking to combine operating funds with reserve money, struggling with the property insurance crisis, or need a new online voting platform, […]

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Community 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 […]

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Community Update – September 2023

Fall is officially here which means busy season is upon us. This month, we spotlight timely articles to help your board succeed in the coming months. Our featured articles explore various topics from board term limits and upgrading your documents to reserves and special assessments. Don’t miss our newest episode of Take It To The […]

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Community Update – August 2023

Hurricane Idalia is reported to be the worst hurricane to make landfall in Florida’s Big Bend in 100 years. Our hearts are with everyone affected and we are always here to help. Our website contains a significant amount of educational information for your community. Should your property incur damage, the firm’s affiliated public adjusting company, Association […]

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Community Update – July 2023

The 2023 Legislative Session brought significant changes for community associations in Florida. In this issue, we aim to provide you with a thorough review and understanding of these new laws. From multifamily property safety to the preparation and response of natural disasters, we provide practical tips to help you understand these new changes. Don’t miss our featured podcast episode, […]

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Community Update – June 2023

June’s edition of CUP brings a range of topics for managers and board members. Whether you’re wondering how SB 154 will impact your association, struggling with a unit owner who has not paid dues, or submitting an SBA loan application, we’ve got something for you. Discover an incredible journey through the eye of a storm as […]

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Community Update – May 2023

This edition of Becker’s Community Update highlights remote voting, managing your personnel, and constitutional rights. Don’t miss the 50th anniversary video that showcases Becker’s rich history and culture. Also featured this month is our Hurricane Preparedness and Recovery Guide. While we hope to be spared from the worst, it’s crucial that your community association is […]

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Guns, God, and Gab – A Constitutional Analysis with Jay Roberts, Esq.

For more episodes of Take It To The Board, click here! In today’s episode, Becker Shareholder Jay Roberts, who represents community associations and developers with respect to all aspects of creating and operating planned community developments throughout Northwest Florida, sits down with Donna DiMaggio Berger to discuss two thought-provoking questions: Should commonly accepted rules regarding signs, flags, and […]

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Community Update – April 2023

The 2023 Legislative Session has brought significant changes to Community Associations. In this Community Update, we address new restrictions on design and construction defect claims as well as recent amendments to the Florida Fire Prevention Code. Don’t miss the latest podcast featuring Dr. Esber Andiroglu, Professor Harold R. Wanless, and Donna DiMaggio Berger on the […]

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Community 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 […]

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Community 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 […]

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Community Update – January 2023

We hope that 2023 is off to a wonderful start! This month, we work through a wide array of issues so that you can rest assured your association is beginning the new year on a high note. There are very specific statutory requirements for levying a special assessment in a condominium. Mark Friedman provides helpful […]

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Community Update – December 2022

As 2022 comes to an end, we look back at our most popular articles this year. Read on for helpful information on statutory and non-statutory reserves, estoppel fees, and so much more. We look forward to another productive year together and wish you continued success in 2023! TOP 5 COMMUNITY UPDATE ARTICLES OF 2022 Given […]

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Community Update – November 2022

We hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. We are tremendously grateful to you and all of our clients, colleagues, and friends. In this month’s edition of CUP, we discuss a wide array of topics from elections to adopting an annual budget, and don’t miss our special feature (podcast) to hear an engineer’s perspective on implementing Florida’s new condo […]

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Community Update – October 2022

Becker is deeply saddened by the devastation caused by Hurricane Ian. Ian has taken lives, destroyed homes and property, and ravaged entire infrastructure systems of towns and cities. As we turn our eyes to recovery, Becker is hosting a webinar on Wednesday, November 9 at 12:00 PM EST to review important information on how to […]

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Community Update – September 2022

At Becker, we stand with our fellow Floridians, particularly those on the west coast who experienced the wrath of Hurricane Ian. As we turn our eye to recovery, we are here to help. Electronic voting offers a convenient method for casting your “ballot”. How can you bring electronic voting into your community? Jennifer Biletnikoff discusses […]

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Community Update – August 2022

This month’s edition of CUP is packed with insightful information. In addition to our featured articles, be sure to check out new episodes of the Take it to the Board Podcast including conversations with community association professional coach, Carmelo Millimaci, and Broward County Property Appraiser, Marty Kiar. Also, find out why it’s important to do your due […]

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Webinar: Casualty Insurance Claims 101 Your Hurricane Playbook

In this informative webinar, we cover what to expect in the event your community is damaged by a casualty event, such as a hurricane. Hear from Community Association Shareholder Jay Roberts, Construction Law & Litigation Shareholder Aaron Pruss, and Public Adjuster Joseph Connelly of Association Adjusting. They approach the conversation from their u

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Community Update – July 2022

On July 1, 2021, changes to Florida law opened the door to allow condominium and cooperative associations a new option for addressing disputes between unit owners and the association through pre-suit mediation. Learn more about what this means in our featured article, “Options for Dispute Resolution in Condominium Associations.” Also, did you know that Becker’s Mediation […]

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Webinar: Red, White, and – Wait, Does the Constitution Really Govern My Association?

 This webinar will discuss how, and to what extent, Constitutional Law impacts actions taken by community associations. Joseph Adams and Jay Roberts will be discussing the general applicability of the Constitution, what a “state actor” is and why that matters, and how the courts have discussed the extent to which the Constitution impacts actions […]

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Community Update – June 2022

June officially marked the start of Hurricane Season in Florida. If you haven’t already, make sure to check out Becker’s Hurricane Guide which includes helpful information to ensure your association is prepared should disaster strike. Also, if you missed our recent webinar on the adoption of Bill SB 4D, the new law addressing building safety, check it […]

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Community Update – May 2022

Hurricane season is here. Time to get ready, and then stay ready. Also check out the Question of the Month to see what impact COVID and Zoom calls have had on board meetings, our deep dive into how the Real Housewives handle their taxes, and a tidy summary of how Florida’s 2022 legislative session will affect Community Associations. The big news this […]

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Community Update – April 2022

In this edition of the Community Update, we address transparency in condominium and homeowners’ associations’, issues associated with alcohol consumption on association property, what associations can and cannot do about solar panels, and even how the Constitution applies to private community associations. Many condominium and homeowners’ associations’ activities are required to have a certain amount […]

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Community Update – March 2022

Florida’s 60-day legislative session recently concluded without passing any major community association legislation. Find out what happened in this month’s “Did You Know” feature, and for a deeper dive on the topic, tune in to the most recent episode of Becker podcast, “Take it to the Board with Donna DiMaggio Berger.” Construction projects, like life, […]

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Community Update – February 2022

Becker’s Take it to the Board with Donna DiMaggio Berger podcast features a variety of guests including our very own attorneys from across the firm’s practice areas and offices. Check out this month’s “Did You Know” section for more information and to tune in to these insightful episodes that delve into everything from handling construction issues to […]

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Community Update – January 2022

This month, we work through a wide array of issues, from trees to legal documentation, and even speeding tickets. Please feel free to join us at the 2022 CA Day & Trade Show hosted by the Central Florida Chapter of Community Associations Institute on February 11 in Orlando! In 1988, Congress pulled back some restrictions […]

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Community 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 […]

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Community Update – November 2021

This month, our featured articles explore various topics from fuel station installation to reserves for HOAs. Also, be sure to check out the “Did You Know” section – Becker’s been nominated for a Diamond Level Readers’ Choice Award from the Florida Community Association Journal (FLCAJ) in recognition of our commitment to the success of shared […]

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Community Update – October 2021

In addition to this month’s featured articles, don’t miss all new episodes of our podcast, “Take it to the Board.” In the most recent episode, host Donna DiMaggio Berger is joined by Becker Employment Law Shareholder Jamie Dokovna for an informative discussion on best practices to create and protect a safe work environment. Learn what Jamie thinks […]

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Community Update – September 2021

It may not quite feel like it yet in Florida, but Fall is officially here. This of course means busy season has arrived for many associations as residents head south for the winter months. Check out this month’s issue for several informative articles to help set your board up for success. Also, be sure to […]

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My Association is Responsible for What?!? The Good, Bad, and Ugly of Contractual Indemnity

“Indemnity” is a legal term of art which stands for the right of a party to claim reimbursement for its loss, damage, or liability from another party who has such a duty. Ordinarily, the duty to indemnify arises through express contractual agreement. The 2014 adoption of section 468.4334, Florida Statutes, has brought a spotlight to […]

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Community 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 […]

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Community Update – July 2021

This edition of Becker’s Community Update addresses several facets of how collaboration between the association and its members can be successfully navigated, ensuring the health and well-being of both parties at the beginning of the relationship and throughout its lifespan. Security – whether provided by video cameras or sound documentation – is definitely a theme. […]

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Community 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 […]

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Community Update – April 2021

This edition of Becker’s Community Update highlights why adding a “primary occupant” designation in your association’s governing documents may be a good idea and whether your entrance gates are opening you up to increased liability. Check out these topics and more, and don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook to get real time updates on these […]

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Community Update – March 2021

Paperwork isn’t the most glamorous part of being a community association member, but this edition of Becker’s Community Update outlines why ignoring administrative tasks would be a big mistake. From governing documents and electoral procedures to zoning and entitlement status, having your details safely squared away sets you and your community on the right path. […]

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Community Update – February 2021

Spring is just around the corner and sprucing up is often top of mind. Whether that means improving yards, documents, or relationships, this edition of Becker’s Community Update offers practical guidance on how to move forward. Check out the hot topics below, and don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook to get real time updates on […]

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Community Update – January 2021

With 2020 finally in the rearview mirror, we dive into what’s ahead for community associations in the New Year. In addition to enjoying this month’s featured articles, we encourage you to take part in our COVID-19 vaccine survey. We want to hear your thoughts on whether or not your association is considering becoming a vaccine […]

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Community Update – December 2020

Since early on in the pandemic, boards and management professionals have shouldered the immense responsibility of ensuring the safety of their residents. Now, with the imminent rollout of the vaccine, they will face a whole new set of challenges which we delve into in this issue of CUP. For those who wish to discuss this […]

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COVID-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 […]

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Community Update – November 2020

We hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday! While this year has not been without challenges, we are tremendously grateful to all of our clients and friends and wish you and your loved ones a joyous and healthy holiday season. Enjoy this month’s edition of CUP and we look forward to seeing you next month! […]

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Community Update – October 2020

The 2020 Legislative Guide is here! Florida’s 2020 Session produced a bevy of newly passed community association legislation including the long-awaited criminalization of fraudulent emotional support animal requests. New laws regarding registration requirements for “55 and over” communities, rights for HOA residents to use fireworks on the 4th of July, and housing discrimination laws were […]

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Community Update – September 2020

Can you believe it’s autumn already? National and local elections are fast approaching and the chatter about whether or not political signs should be permitted in private residential communities is building. We delve into this issue as well as discuss how to keep your HOA director elections, which are also on the horizon, from turning […]

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Community Update – August 2020

Have you heard the news? We’re thrilled to announce the launch of Association Adjusting, the one and only public adjusting company that exclusively serves community associations throughout Florida. Association Adjusting is a licensed and insured public adjusting firm led by Joseph “Joe” Connelly, an advocate for insurance consumers for more than a decade. We hope […]

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Community Update – June 2020

June means the start of Hurricane season in Florida and while we always hope for a quiet year, it’s important that your community take steps now to ensure preparedness should disaster strike. This issue includes Becker’s newly interactive 2020 Hurricane Guide which provides important tips and information to help prepare and protect your community. Make […]

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Webinar: Are Your Board’s Emergency Powers Still in Effect?

The fluid nature of the pandemic, mixed with oftentimes inconsistent guidelines from all levels of government, has led to understandable confusion. Becker Community Association Shareholders explore the continuing state of emergency powers throughout Florida, best practices to follow when reopening facilities, how to handle allowing access to outside guests and contractors, and other timely topics. […]

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Community Update – May 2020

We all know the old adage, “April showers bring May Flowers,” and while springtime is in full swing, it looks as though we may also be slowly emerging from the COVID-19 fog with businesses beginning to cautiously reopen across the state. The month of May also means that we are gearing up for the start […]

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The “New Norm” for Community Associations in Light of COVID-19

The COVID-19 virus has substantially impacted all types of community associations throughout Florida. From closing amenities, to limiting access by non-residents, taking in travelers from other parts of the country, including those deemed “hot spots”, and reacting to the endless flow of emergency and executive orders from the state, counties, and municipalities, associations across Florida […]

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Community Update – April 2020

 Our featured article, “Obtaining a Bank Loan; Step-by-Step,” explores the process of attaining a line of credit. A loan can help an association ensure they have necessary funding to navigate through an emergency, whether it be due to the coronavirus, hurricane season, or otherwise. We live in an age where the lack of civility has become […]

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“In the Crosshairs: Can — and Should — Your Clients Regulate Firearm Possession?,” Community Association Management Insider

The issue of gun violence has become increasingly common in news headlines across the country, and in turn, has become a hot button topic of debate within community associations. Shareholder Jay Roberts discusses the options community associations have in dealing with this issue with Community Association Management Inside. Jay notes that while Florida has no […]

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Community Update – December 2019

As 2019 comes to a close, we look back at a selection of our most popular Community Update articles. Read on for a refresher on special assessments, juggling both your official association communications with your personal information, and speeding issues in your community. Also, we feature our top read article from our new Spanish feature […]

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25 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 […]

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Community Update – October 2018

Fear not! We’ve got nothing here to scare you. Rather than something spooky on Halloween, we’re aiming for items that are helpful to clarify or ease the board member or management responsibilities you have for your community. So yes, it’s a treat! Our first article, Term Limit Law Continues to Spark Controversy, takes a look […]

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Jay Roberts Obtains Court of Appeals Reversal April 17, 2017

Becker & Poliakoff senior attorney Jay Roberts recently scored a win for his condominium association client in a Fair Housing Act (FHA) ruling from the Florida First District Court of Appeal (Harbour Pointe of Perdido Key Condominium Association, Inc. v. James Henkel). The appellate ruling has potentially broad implications for condominium associations. While all design and construction […]

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Defending (My) Our Castle: A Look at Gun Regulation by Community Associations

On September 6, 2012, David Merritt, president of the Spring Creek Homeowners Association, called a homeowners association meeting to order. Approximately 30 minutes later, Merritt, and former president of Spring Creek Marvin Fisher, would be fatally shot by their neighbor, Mahmood Hindi. The dispute between Hindi and Spring Creek involved an unapproved driveway and fence […]

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Becker & Poliakoff’s Jay Roberts Named To Florida Trend’s 2015 Legal Elite “Up And Comers”

FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. – Aug. 31, 2015 – Law firm Becker & Poliakoff today announced that Jay Roberts, an attorney in the Community Association Law Practice Group at the firm’s Fort Walton Beach, Fla., office, has been named as one of Florida Trend’s 2015 Legal Elite “Up and Comers.” The magazine’s Legal Elite, which recognizes attorneys […]

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