The start of a new year brings fresh opportunities, exciting projects, and a chance to reflect on our collective achievements. In this issue, we look back at the year’s most popular reads and share helpful tips on Florida’s condo deadline. We also pass the torch to new CUP editors, Yeline Goin and Joseph Arena. Don’t […]
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Community Update – November 2024
It’s time to start getting ready for the holidays and other year-end celebrations! This issue of CUP explores some common issues that associations are facing and discusses best practices to start the new year off right. Whether you’re struggling with Florida’s condo crisis, need help understanding the Corporate Transparency Act, or dealing with random meeting musings, we’ve got […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – October 2024
This issue of CUP highlights a range of timely topics for board members and managers. Whether you’re preparing for budget season, considering amending election terms, or navigating disaster recovery and insurance claims, we’ve got something for you. Don’t miss our recent webinar explaining the Corporate Transparency Act and the mandatory reporting requirements for all community associations! Also featured this month […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – September 2024
While some areas of the West Coast and Panhandle were fortunate to escape Hurricane Helene’s impact, others were not so lucky. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the storm, and we want to remind you that we are here to help. Our website contains a wealth of educational information for your community, including both pre- […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – August 2024
As the back-to-school season kicks off, it’s the perfect time to embrace new beginnings and fresh opportunities! This issue of CUP highlights everything you need to know to stay organized for the year ahead. We address late assessments, architectural review, and Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) Volunteers. We also celebrate 39 Becker Attorneys recognized in […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – July 2024
2024 was a particularly active year for community association legislation and several changes to the condominium law became effective July 1, 2024. What does that mean for your community association? This issue of CUP highlights some of those changes in Joseph Adam’s annual legislative review and Yeline Goin’s article on HB 1203. Don’t miss Becker’s 2024 Legislative Guidebook which […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – June 2024
June means the start of Hurricane season in Florida and while we always hope for a quiet year, it’s important that your community is prepared. Check out Becker’s Hurricane Guide for helpful tips before, during, and after the storm. This issue of CUP also features common questions on violation notices, a bird’s eye view of […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – May 2024
Hurricane season is here. It’s time to get ready, and then stay ready. This issue of CUP also addresses the do’s and don’ts of association committees, estoppel certificates, and association contracts. Don’t miss our featured article on the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and beware of the recently issued scam alert Two of the bills signed […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – April 2024
In this edition of the Community Update, we address estoppel certificates, video cameras for surveillance, and the pending new laws from the 2024 Florida Legislative Session. We also welcome our newest Shareholder, Allison L. Hertz, and celebrate $120,000 raised for Pancreatic Cancer. Don’t miss our featured podcast episode that discusses crafting and protecting your community’s […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – March 2024
March marks the beginning of Spring and with a new season comes new opportunities. This issue of CUP will help your community association navigate elections and voting, insurance claims, and enforcement fines. Also featured this month are a few of the bills sent to the Governor for action following the 2024 Legislative Session. Don’t miss […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 MoreCommunity 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, […]
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 MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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, […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreGuns, 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
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 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 MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreWebinar: 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
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreWebinar: 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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, […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
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 MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreMy 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 […]
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 MoreCommunity 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. […]
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 MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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. […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
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 MoreCommunity 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! […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreTo Notice, or Not to Notice, That Is the Question: Closed Board Meetings
The answer to the question of whether all board meetings must be properly noticed to the members is YES. Even the emergency powers section of the community association statutes require notice to be given as is practicable.
Read MoreWebinar: 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. […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreThe “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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreJay Roberts Discusses Overcoming COVID-19 in the Panhandle on Castle Webinar
How do you go on with business as usual in these unusual times? Becker Shareholder Jay Roberts joined Castle for their weekly webinar series “Close to Home: How Your Neighbors are Overcoming COVID-19 in the Panhandle.” He was joined by Senior Vice President of Castle Fiona DiDomenico as they discussed finding the new normal and […]
Read MoreEpisode 14: Levying Special Assessments for Renovations – “Can They Do That?”
My association wants to levy a special assessment to pay for remodeling the lobby. The board claims it’s a common expense so all unit owners are equally responsible for the cost. Can they do that? Find out the answer in this month’s episode! When it comes to association rules and bylaws, there seem to be […]
Read More“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 […]
Read MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreSpecial Assessments in Condo
Special assessments happen. The unfortunate reality is that during the life of a condominium building some unexpected expenses are going to arise and the association must take steps to fulfill its obligations to the membership. If the operating budget cannot handle these expenses, and there is not a funded reserve account which can dray the […]
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 MoreCommunity 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 […]
Read MoreJay Roberts Appointed to City of Destin Board of Adjustment
Jay Roberts, senior attorney in Becker & Poliakoff’s Ft. Walton Beach office, has been unanimously appointed to serve on the Destin Board of Adjustment by the Destin City Council. The Board of Adjustment hears and decides real estate and zoning matters such as applications for variances, special exceptions and administrative appeals around decisions and zoning […]
Read MoreJay 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 […]
Read MoreDefending (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 […]
Read MoreThe End Of Apathy In Condo Association Voting?
Amending Governing Documents For A More Efficient Operation
How To Avoid Personal Liability As A Condominium Association Director
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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