There are several significant changes occurring at both the state and county levels that we want to ensure you are aware of, particularly regarding Community Association Law. Keeping abreast of these developments is crucial for staying compliant and informed when managing a condominium or homeowners’ association. Among these changes are: 1) NEW: MIAMI-DADE COUNTY FEBRUARY […]
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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, […]
Read MoreBreed-Specific Dog Bans
In 1989, in the wake of a series of serious injuries caused by pit bulls, most notably the mauling of a 7-year-old girl and her mother, Miami-Dade County adopted an ordinance making it illegal for residents to own or keep an American Pit Bull, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or any other dog whose […]
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 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 – 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 More“Official Records Issues” – FLCAJ Magazine
Anyone who has ever served on a board of directors of a condominium association or has ever managed a condominium association knows that there are a number of laws that regulate the keeping and reviewing of its official records. The Florida Condominium Act sets out 16 separate classes of items that constitute “official records” of […]
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 More“Electric Vehicles, Coming Soon to a Parking Area Near You!” – FLCAJ Magazine
With the all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E currently arriving at car dealers, and the Ford F-150 Lightning arriving next spring, as well as Toyota, Nissan, GM, Audi, and so many others car makers already producing all-electric versions of their vehicles, it seems that what used to be considered a niche for adventurous Tesla explorers may become […]
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 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 More“Caring for the Financial Well-being of the Association” – FLCAJ Magazine
To ensure the financial well-being of the association, boards and managers should focus on at least four factors in the association: budget, reserves, insurance, and collection practices. This article will take a brief look at each of these, but this is not a finite list. It is recommended that you consult with your association attorney […]
Read More“Leasing Restrictions – Be Sure You Can Do What You Think You Can Do” – FLCAJ Magazine
For over a year, it would appear from the outside that the only issue Florida community associations have been dealing with is the pandemic. Those of us who work with, live in, or manage condominiums know this is not the case. However, it did seem that COVID-19 issues superseded all other issues for some time. […]
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 More“Homeowner Association Confusion & Frequently Asked Questions” – FLCAJ Magazine
Although the term community association encompasses different types of community associations, in Florida, the two predominant forms of community associations are homeowners associations and condominium associations. There are vast differences but also numerous similarities between the two. Unfortunately, this can cause confusion when owners, directors, and/or managers assume the two are the same. Simply put, […]
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 More“Projects in Mind for the New Year?” – FLCAJ Magazine
For many, 2020 felt like it was a giant pause button in an otherwise whirlwind of activity. Due to health and safety concerns related to COVID-19, many planned repairs and/or replacement projects were postponed. As the new year starts off, communities may begin to look at starting these projects anew. If your community is one […]
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 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 More“Reflections On The Lasting Effects Of The COVID-19 Pandemic” – FLCAJ Magazine
No one has a crystal ball to look into the future, but some things are more likely than others. The many media references to the “2020 Bingo Card,” containing any number of unfathomable happenings, supports the idea that no one could possibly have predicted the kinds of questions lawyers are receiving from their community association […]
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 – 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 More“Don’t Forget Reserves!” – FLCAJ Magazine
As budgeting season approaches, community associations must once again grapple with the continuing issues of reserves. Under ordinary circumstances, reserve funding increases the amount owners need to contribute to the association every month, since reserves are required above and beyond the association’s operating expenses. In light of the recent economic changes, reserves may be something […]
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 More“Community Association Law Headed in the Right Direction” – FLCAJ Magazine
Over the years, there have been a number of advents in Florida community association law toward allowing technology to facilitate the operation of community associations. For many years, board members were able to call in to board meetings and attend and vote, so long as speaker phones were available at the meeting site for members […]
Read More“Preparing for a Busy Fall Season” – FLCAJ Magazine
Because most association fiscal years and elections coincide with the end of the calendar year, preparations should be underway for a busy fall season. Here are a few tips to ease the process: Make a “to-do” list of needed repairs or maintenance for the upcoming year. Maintain and review up-to-date financial data throughout the year […]
Read More“Preparing for a Busy Fall Season,” FLCAJ
Because most association fiscal years and elections coincide with the end of the calendar year, preparations should be underway for a busy fall season. Here are a few tips to ease the process:
Read More“Reduce the Stress of Election Season” – FLCAJ Magazine
As Floridians begin to see the proverbial light at the end of the summer heat wave tunnel, the specter of election season begins to rise over community association managers and boards of directors. As most community associations hold their annual meetings, elections, and budget meetings toward the end of the calendar year, it is important […]
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 – March 2019
Happy spring! As we move into the new season, there’s no better time to start thinking about spring cleaning for your association! Whether your association board has new members or your building is in need of maintenance, now is the time to make sure you’re on the right track for success. When strangers come together […]
Read MoreAvoid a Gridlock – Educate, Communicate & Plan
When strangers come together as a new board of directors for a community association, they may find they have such differing views on what is best for the building that they can feel as though they are in a no win scenario. While working to find a creative solution to the problem is something we […]
Read MoreWeathering the Storm of Unexpected Community Association Financial Needs
In Florida, particularly in the summer months, a beautiful sunny day can suddenly morph into a torrential downpour. Similarly, an association with no obvious financial problems can suddenly find itself in the perfect storm that arises when restrictive financial language in governing documents, unexpected-yet-necessary repairs and a shortage of funds collide. There are various ways […]
Read MoreCommunity Update – August 2018
With back-to-school season in full swing we don’t want you to miss out on your share of continuing education – certainly not when it comes to the board member or management responsibilities you have for your community. After all, why should the kids have all the fun? In this issue, we aim to provide you […]
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