Florida’s Top 10 Most Common Community Association Problems

Ryan S. Shipp, Esquire

3 years ago

Florida’s Top 10 Most Common Community Association Problems

Did you know that Florida has a lot of community associations, like HOAs, COAs, and COOPs? While these associations have their perks, they can also face a bunch of problems. Here are Law Office of Ryan S. Shipp, PLLC’s Florida’s Top 10 Most Common Community Association Problems for 2023:

First up, insurance claims, coverage, and disputes can be a headache. These associations typically have insurance, but disputes with insurance companies can be costly and time-consuming.
Second, we’ve got maintenance and repair issues. If common areas and amenities aren’t kept up, it can lower property values and leave members feeling unsatisfied.
Third, we’ve got rules enforcement. These associations have rules in place to keep things safe and maintain appearances, but enforcing them can be tough.
Fourth, there’s budget and financial management. If these associations don’t manage their finances properly, they could end up with deficits or not enough funds for necessary repairs.
Fifth, communication issues can arise. Clear and consistent communication is important for these associations to run smoothly, but misunderstandings and conflicts can happen when communication breaks down.
Sixth, we’ve got board member conduct. These folks are responsible for making decisions for the community, but if they act unethically or inappropriately, it can damage the association’s reputation and trust among members.
Seventh, we have delinquent assessments. These associations rely on members paying their dues to keep up with maintenance costs, but if folks don’t pay up, it can be a real headache.
Eighth, vendor contracts and disputes can also cause trouble. When disputes arise over contract terms or quality of service, it can lead to legal battles and financial losses.
Ninth, members can face resale and refinance difficulties if the association is dealing with financial or legal problems. This can make it hard to sell homes or obtain financing.
Tenth, legal disputes can be a major issue. These associations can get into legal battles with members, neighboring communities, and government agencies, and these disputes can be costly and damaging to the association’s reputation.

In Florida, community associations have their fair share of challenges. Managing finances, communicating effectively, and planning ahead are crucial to tackling these problems and ensuring that the community thrives. By addressing these top 10 most common community association problems, associations can work towards a stronger and more vibrant community. Our office effectivly represents both community associations and homeowners. Call us today @ 561.699.0399 to learn more. Our office is located in Palm Beach County, we serve all of Florida’s 67 Counties.

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Below Legal Blog Was Originally Published April, 2021

In Florida, there are roughly 50,000 community associations throughout the state. Studies have even indicated that most residents say they appreciate the work of their community association in helping to maintain standards in their neighborhood. And, 70% of homeowner and condo association residents have rated their overall experience living in a community association as “very good” or “good.” However, with such large numbers, there are bound to be problems. As homeowners’ lawyers representing homeowners and unit owners against Florida condominium associations and HOA’s, we constantly see many of the same issues coming up again and again, but just in different communities. As such, our office has put together the below list (in no particular order) of Florida’s Top 10 Most Common Community Association Problems:

floods, leaks, water intrusion, mold, roof leaks;
non-payment of maintenance dues, special assessments, liens, and fines;
misappropriation of association funds, selective enforcement, failure to maintain common area, breach of fiduciary duty, elections and recalls, and class actions;
official records requests, inspections, and document review;
boundary disputes, fences, permits, easements, statute of limitations, and grandfathering;
problems with the Architectural Review Board (“A.R.B.”), Architectural Review Committee (“A.R.C.”), landscaping, trees, planting, exterior changes in design, aesthetic appearance, garbage and trash, painting;
parking spaces, parking violations, commercial vehicles, cars, and storage units;
rental restrictions, leasing, sufficient funds, reserves, estoppel, and association approval;
pets, service animals, and emotional support animals; and
noise, disturbances, harassment, security, and breach of the peace.

Are you or your neighbors experiencing one or more of the above problems in your community? You may need to consult with an experienced HOA attorney that fights for the rights of homeowners. Whether it may be a document review, official records request, attorney opinion letter, arbitration, mediation or filing or defending a lawsuit, contact the Law Office of Ryan S. Sh ipp, PLLC at 561.699.0399.

You may be interested in seeing some of our other legal posts on Florida Community Associations. For your convenience, please see links below.