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Find Blog Articles for Florida’s Condo, HOA and the Management Industry. 

Condo and HOA Expo: February 1st in Palm Beach, February 4th in Miami Beach and February 15th in Broward. See you there!

Condo and HOA Expo: February 1st in Palm Beach, February 4th in Miami Beach and February 15th in Broward. See you there!

  • Posted: Jan 22, 2022
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Condo and HOA Expo’s: February 1st in Palm Beach, February 4th in Miami Beach and February 15th in Broward. See you there!

 

Learn From The Industry Leaders

Get the tools and information you need to manage your condo or HOA more efficiently. Regional and national experts will offer insights into the latest industry trends and best practices in legal oversight, financing, maintenance, renovations, energy efficiency, administration, communication and more. Bring your questions to these lively, informative sessions and come away with a clear blueprint for improved management for the future.

 

Palm Beach County Convention Center
Tuesday, February 1, 2022

For one day only, the Palm Beach Convention Center will be packed with the latest products and services as well as an array of industry experts. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to make valuable connections and speak directly with local and national experts about the topics that are relevant to you and your property.

Get legal insights, financial advice, communication tips, proactive management solutions and much more from some of the region’s top professionals. This one-day event will also give you a sneak peek at the latest design trends gracing today’s most prestigious developments, plus innovations in building and remodeling and the newest energy efficiency options.

Register to Attend

 

 


Miami Beach Condo & HOA Expo
Join Us on February 4th!

For one day only, the Miami Beach Convnetion Center will be packed with the latest products and services as well as an array of industry experts. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to make valuable connections and speak directly with local and national experts about the topics that are relevant to you and your property.

Get legal insights, financial advice, communication tips, proactive management solutions and much more for some of the region’s top professionals. Attend FREE educational seminars and CEU courses covering all of today’s essential property management topics. This one-day event will also give you a sneak peek at the latest design trends gracing today’s most prestigious developments, plus innovations in building and remodeling and the newest energy efficiency options.

Register to Attend

 

 


The Broward County Condo & HOA Expo
Join Us Tuesday, February 15, 2022!

For one day only, The Signature Grand will be packed with the latest products and services as well as an array of industry experts. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to make valuable connections and speak directly with local and national experts about the topics that are relevant to you and your property.

Get legal insights, financial advice, communication tips, proactive management solutions and much more from some of the region’s top professionals. This one-day event will also give you a sneak peek at the latest design trends gracing today’s most prestigious developments, plus innovations in building and remodeling and the newest energy efficiency options.

Register to Attend

 


Condo, HOA and Property Management Expo
Tampa Convention Center

Thursday, February 10th, 2022

Seminars: 9:00 am – 4:30 pm  Exhibits: 10:30 am – 3:00 pm 

Sign up for the networking and educational event of the year! Get face-time with industry experts, browse the latest products and services and learn how to save thousands on the management and maintenance of your condo or HOA.

It’s the ONLY event to bring everything you need under one convenient roof for a single, information-packed day.

Registration is FREE for community association managers, board members, board presidents, active HOA members and industry professionals. Don’t delay… register for this one-of-a-kind event today!


Naples Condo & HOA Expo & Seminars
March 25, 2022

New Hope Event Center
7675 Davis Blvd. Naples, FL 34104

Seminars 9:00 am – 4:30 pm   Exhibits 10:30 am – 3:00 pm

Sign up for the networking and educational event of the year! Get face-time with the industry experts, browse the latest products and services and learn how to save thousands of the management and maintenance of your condo or HOA.

Registration is FREE for association managers, board members. Don’t delay!


Orlando Condo HOA Property Management Expo & Seminars
Orange County Convention Center-West Bldg
Tuesday, April 12, 2022

Seminars 9:00 am – 4:30 pm  Exhibits 10:30 am-3:00 pm

Sign up for the networking and educational event of the year!
Get face-time with the industry experts, browse the latest
products and services and learn how to save thousands on the
management and maintenance of your condo or HOA.

Registration is FREE for association managers, and board members. Don’t delay!


 

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Repair Erosion for a Healthier Waterbody by SOLitude

Repair Erosion for a Healthier Waterbody by SOLitude

  • Posted: Jan 21, 2022
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Repair Erosion for a Healthier Waterbody

Shoreline erosion can be detrimental to the health of your waterbody as well as the safety and value of your property.

The Many Effects of Erosion on Florida Lakes

Most communities throughout Florida utilize lakes and ponds to enhance the aesthetics of homes and golf courses, as well as support recreational opportunities such as boating and fishing for residents. The majority of these waterbodies were man-made for practical and functional purposes, such as capturing stormwater to prevent flooding or storing water to use for irrigation. Unfortunately, natural erosion of the shoreline is inevitable. It is an issue that only gets worse over time and should be addressed immediately, followed by consistent monitoring.

Effects of Shoreline Erosion in Lakes

Shoreline erosion is a serious issue for waterbodies of all sizes and uses. It can degrade shoreline property, increase the risk of flooding, interfere with recreational opportunities, and threaten aesthetic appeal. In many cases, the deep cracks and gullies that appear can expose sprinkler systems, drainage pipes, and electrical cables, leading to costly repairs. Likewise, due to the effects of erosion, lakefront homeowners may find that their property decreases in size and value over time.

When slopes become too steep, the shoreline can also become unsafe for residents, children, pets, and recreationers. Steep slopes increase the risk of someone falling into the lake and being injured. The steepness of the slope can also make it hard for someone to get out of the lake when they fall in. This can pose a significant liability for HOAsgolf coursescommercial properties, and private homeowners.

What Causes Lake Shorelines to Erode

Erosion has many natural causes:

  • Changing water levels due to seasonal rains and other weather events
  • Strong winds that cause waves to pound into banks and reduce stability over time
  • Improper drainage systems that allow stormwater runoff to cause damage, especially when the shoreline is exposed due to low lake elevation

The presence of nuisance fish and wildlife such as invasive armored catfish and otters that burrow into banks and cause them to collapse

Erosion Caused by Humans

Although these causes are natural, human activities can also increase the rate of erosion:

  • Clear-cutting of beneficial buffers composed of native vegetation removes the natural erosion protection provided by complex root systems that hold soil in place
  • Gardening and lawn care can cause excess fertilizer and pesticides to enter a waterbody, disrupting its natural health and balance
  • When too much land is covered by pavement or asphalt, these hard surfaces can accelerate the stormwater that enters a lake or pond, rather than allowing natural absorption into the soil

 

How Lake Shoreline Erosion Can Be Prevented

Despite the best efforts of HOAs, golf course superintendents, and municipalities, all waterbodies will experience erosion to some degree. However, there are many strategies to control or mitigate erosion.

 

Native Plants

Planting deep-rooted grasses and flowering vegetation will help retain, hold and stabilize the soil. This ground cover also helps to deter nuisance and invasive species from entering the aquatic ecosystem. It is imperative to use native plants rather than exotic species that are known to damage the habitat that nurtures beneficial fish, birds, and other wildlife.

Bioengineered Shoreline Control

Bioengineered erosion control technology is an excellent tool to restore shorelines and mitigate future erosion. Knitted ShoreSOX® and DredgeSOX® repurpose eroded muck by anchoring it to the shoreline for lasting stability. SOX solutions integrate naturally into the landscape and can be planted directly with vegetation for further erosion protection.

Riprap and Root Trap

With riprap, rocks are placed over a filter blanket to keep the soil in place. Similar to riprap, root trap is achieved by covering the rocks with topsoil and installing native, deep-rooted plants that contain the sediment in place as they grow.

Bulkheads and Retaining Walls

Bulkheads and retaining walls can be effective at controlling the effects of erosion; however, if not installed correctly, they run the risk of falling into the water or eroding from underneath and becoming unsafe.

Erosion Control Blankets

Coir logs or fiber roll material can be installed to slow down the movement of the water or create a “pooling” effect that allows sediment to filter out. They can be made of natural or synthetic fibers or a blend of straw, coconut fiber, or polypropylene (plastic).

Contact Us to Protect Your Shoreline Against Erosion

Call us at 866-781-8904 or complete the form below to get connected with an aquatic management expert.

 

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Security Tips for Managing the Association’s Bank Accounts Online  By: Sara K. Wilson, Esq. / Becker

Security Tips for Managing the Association’s Bank Accounts Online By: Sara K. Wilson, Esq. / Becker

  • Posted: Jan 14, 2022
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Security Tips for Managing the Association’s Bank Accounts Online

By: Sara K. Wilson, Esq.  Becker

Increasing numbers of people and small businesses, including community associations, have switched to managing their bank accounts exclusively over the internet.  Not surprisingly, these numbers surged even higher during the pandemic.  While online banking has become common place, so have incidents of cybercrime and fraud.  Banks of course use a variety of security measures to protect their customers’ accounts, but there are also steps that you as the customer should take to minimize risk.

  1. Verify that your bank is using the latest security technology in step with banking industry standards.
  2. Have a dedicated computer for conducting the association’s online banking, and make sure that computer stays current with anti-virus protection and updates. If the dedicated computer is a laptop, never conduct online banking in public spaces or use public Wi-Fi.
  3. Choose passwords that are complex by using a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols, and institute a policy for changing passwords on a regular basis. Limit the number of people who know the password to only those who are managing the accounts.  Passwords should not be recorded on personal computers or mobile devices or accessible to other owners, family members, guests, etc.  Avoid automatic logins to prevent unauthorized persons from easily accessing the association’s accounts.
  4. Be on high alert for phishing scams. Phishing is a technique that cyber-criminals use to gain sensitive information, like bank account numbers and passwords, through fraudulent emails and texts.  Your bank will never ask for your password via email or text; so if you receive such an email or text, delete it. Also beware of any email requesting that you “update your account,” or of any email warning of dire consequences if you do not act immediately.  If you are not sure whether the email came from your bank, contact your banking institution to verify whether they sent the email.  Because phishing scams are so prevalent, it is important to provide information about phishing to anyone who will be managing the association’s accounts online so they know what to look for.
  5. Reconcile your bank accounts on a regular basis – ideally daily – to avoid an irregularity going unnoticed. Inquire whether your bank sends alerts for transactions over a certain amount or if your account drops below a certain amount for added protection.

These are just a few of the steps an association can take to decrease risks when managing its bank accounts online. Because a community association has a fiduciary responsibility to its members, it is imperative that it takes the necessary steps to minimize potential cyber threats to its bank accounts. While there is no guarantee that even a well-protected system won’t be hacked, by adopting and following online banking security policies, an association greatly lessens its chances of being an easy target for a potentially devastating cybercrime.

Sara K. Wilson

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Why Condominium Associations Must Obtain Approval Before Work Begins and A Plea To The Florida Legislature For A Remedy by KBR Legal

Why Condominium Associations Must Obtain Approval Before Work Begins and A Plea To The Florida Legislature For A Remedy by KBR Legal

  • Posted: Jan 12, 2022
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Why Condominium Associations Must Obtain Approval Before Work Begins and A Plea To The Florida Legislature For A Remedy

 

When it comes to material alterations, some might say that homeowner associations have it easy compared to condominium associations. For a homeowners association, because Chapter 720, Florida Statutes is silent on the issue, unless otherwise provided in the governing documents, decisions regarding material alterations are made by the board. But, as to condominium associations, and as their board members should know, §718.113(2), Florida Statutes, requires advance membership approval for material alterations to the common elements and association real property. In this regard, there is no parity between the Condominium Act versus the Homeowners Association Act.

Before explaining further, a reminder of the Florida’s Fourth District Court of Appeal  definition of what constitutes a “material alteration” from the seminal case Sterling Village Condominium, Inc. v. Breitenbach,  251 so.2d 685, 4th DCA (1971) is in order. As explained in Sterling,  “as applied to buildings the term ‘material alteration or addition’ means to palpably or perceptively vary or change the form, shape, elements or specifications of a building from its original design or plan, or existing condition, in such a manner as to appreciably affect or influence its function, use, or appearance.”

Prior to July 1, 2018, §718.113(2)(a), Florida Statutes, provided that no material alteration or substantial addition can be made to the common elements or association real property without the approval in the manner provided for in the declaration, or if the declaration is silent, then by 75 percent of the total voting interests of the association. As adopted by the 2018 Florida legislature, (effective July, 1, 2018), §718.113(2), Florida Statutes was amended to provide that approval of the material alteration or substantial addition must be obtained before the work commences.

 

The current language of §718.113(2)(a), Florida Statutes, provides as follows:

Except as otherwise provided in this section, there shall be no material alteration or substantial additions to the common elements or to real property which is association property, except in a manner provided in the declaration as originally recorded or as amended under the procedures provided therein. If the declaration as originally recorded or as amended under the procedures provided therein does not specify the procedure for approval of material alterations or substantial additions, 75 percent of the total voting interests of the association must approve the alterations or additions before the material alterations or substantial additions are commenced. This paragraph is intended to clarify existing law and applies to associations existing on July 1, 2018. [Emphasis added]

Prior to the 2018 amendment, §718.113(2), Florida Statutes, did not expressly provide that the approval must be obtained before the material alteration or substantial addition was commenced. However, in a recent decision by the Third District Court of Appeal, the Court held that approval was required before the material alteration or substantial additions were commenced even before the language of §718.113(2), Florida Statutes, was amended to include the advance approval requirement!

In Bailey v. Shelborne Ocean Beach Hotel Condominium Association, Inc., Nos. 3D17-559, 3D17-01767 (Fla. 3d DCA July 15, 2020), unit owners brought a claim against their association alleging that the association violated §718.113(2), Florida Statutes, by failing to obtain the approval of the membership before commencing a large construction project which, they argued, constituted a material alteration to the common elements. Later, both parties agreed that all but two of the alleged “material alterations” actually constituted necessary maintenance that the association was authorized to commence without a vote of the membership.

The association alleged that the remaining two construction items were also necessary maintenance, which was an allegation the unit owners disputed. The trial court held that the remaining two alleged material alterations were valid notwithstanding whether they were necessary maintenance or material alterations because the association eventually obtained the approval of the membership (presumably after the fact). Therefore, the trial court reasoned it did not need to make a determination as to whether the two items were material alterations since the membership approved them, albeit in a tardy fashion.

On appeal to the Third District Court of Appeal, the unit owners challenged the trial court’s decision arguing that the statute required the association to obtain approval for material alterations before it commenced the work. Therefore, the plaintiff unit owners argued that the membership could not provide their consent and approval posthumously. As the construction project at issue took place between 2010 and 2016, the applicable version of §718.113(2) did not include the express requirement that approval be obtained before material alterations are commenced. However, the Court still held that the portions of a construction project that do not constitute necessary maintenance must be approved prior to commencement.

The court explained that “based on the structure of the statute, the 75 percent approval requirement is a condition necessary to overcome the statute’s clear prohibition, insofar as any of the construction work amounts to material alteration or substantial additions.” However, because the trial court did not rule on whether the two items at issue were material alterations or necessary maintenance, the Court was unable to determine whether a vote of the members was pre-required and remanded the case to the trial court for further proceeding to determine the nature of the two construction items.

Because the Court did not make a final determination whether the two construction items constituted necessary maintenance, the Court did not address the remedy for the association’s failure to obtain the advance approval of the membership. Additionally, the law fails to address the remedy when an association does not obtain membership approval before commencing a project.

In cases of material alterations already completed which required the advance approval of the membership, the present version of §718.113(2), Florida Statutes leaves no room whatsoever for the court to order an association to posthumously acquire the membership vote or put things back the way they were. Rather, the only remedy that appears available to the court would be to restore the common elements to its pre-existing state (or as close as can be accomplished under the circumstances), which explains why a legislative fix to §718.113(2), Florida Statutes, to provide for additional remedy would be helpful.

There is a very important lesson to be gleaned from the Bailey case. If your association is considering a material alteration of any kind, then the association would be wise to attain the required approval before commencing the project to avoid a successful legal challenge. If the association fails to obtain the required approvals before commencement of the project, in the event of a legal challenge, the association may well be required to undo whatever alterations were made to the common elements as Bailey suggests this was the case even before the relevant statute was amended. This can result in significant expense to the association, not to mention having to explain what happened to many irate unit owners.

 


Remember, prior to commencing any material alteration or substantial addition, be sure to consult your association’s attorney to ensure you comply with the requirements of the Florida law and your association’s governing documents.

1200 Park Central Boulevard South, Pompano Beach, FL. Tel: 954.928.0680
9121 North Military Trail, Suite 200, Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Tel: 561.241.4462
1211 N. Westshore Boulevard, Suite 409, Tampa, FL. Tel: 813.375.0731

 

 

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Glass repair, replacement, coverings and tinting services to the residential, automotive and commercial markets, Find Top SFPMA Members

Glass repair, replacement, coverings and tinting services to the residential, automotive and commercial markets, Find Top SFPMA Members

  • Posted: Jan 06, 2022
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Glass repair, replacement and tinting services to the residential, automotive and commercial markets

If you’re ready to give your home a new look or save on heating and cooling bills, your windows are a great place to start. But with so many ways to renovate the windows in your home, where do you even begin?

Are solar screens an option, and do they really work? What are the advantages of Double Pane windows? If you’re scratching your head wondering which window option to choose, you’re not alone! Because there are several options to choose from, this article will help you figure out which windows might work best for your home and budget. To make that process easier, let’s take a look at a few of the most popular window options available.

Before reviewing the different window options available, it should be noted that energy efficiency should be a major consideration when deciding which type of windows you choose for your home. Energy efficient windows can help lower your monthly heating and cooling cost, and can result in significant savings over time.

Impact Windows

While the initial cost of impact windows might be a little more, they offer a significant advantage when it comes to protecting your home and property from storm damage. If you live in a climate that is prone to hurricanes or severe weather, impact windows provide the type of security and protection that other windows can’t match. Upgrading your home with impact windows can also help increase the overall value of your home. Since your windows are often the weakest point in a home, impact windows help minimize the threat of damage to your home.


Scratch Removal Specialists

800-806-8807

Our Philosophy and Mission

With over twenty-years of South Florida experience in the glass restoration industry, Scratch Removal Specialists, Inc. strives to provide the most professional and cost effective solutions to your glass restoration needs.  Our company culture of professionalism, safety, training, and customer satisfaction makes us stand-out as the best choice in the glass restoration industry.  From a single window repair, to an entire building restoration, we have the experience and staffing to take on your project with the the care and professionalism it deserves.

 

 


IGU (Double Pane Windows)

Insulated glass windows, also referred to as double-pane windows, consist of two or more pieces of flat glass separated by gas or air that is injected between them. Two pieces of glass certainly provide more protection as opposed to one. However, since glass is a poor insulator by nature, the thickness of the glass may not be as important as what’s in between those two panes of glass. This space is typically filled with either air or gas (like krypton or argon) which helps boost the windows’ insulating power and inhibits heat transfer. Not only are insulated glass windows incredibly energy-efficient, but they also add a layer of comfort to your home by helping to reduce the amount of air that escapes through your window and the level of outside noise.

Low-E Glass

Low-E, which stands for low emissivity glass, is a kind of thin coating (thinner than a strand of human hair) that is applied to windows to make them substantially more energy-efficient. While window tints use a type of film to minimize heat, low E-glass uses a colorless, non-toxic coating instead. Low-E glass minimizes how much ultraviolet light passes through the window. This can help enhance the natural lighting in your home and reduce heating and cooling costs. Low-E glass is a great investment if you’re looking to make a subtle upgrade of your windows while staying cost-effective.

If you decide to update rather than replace your windows, here are some other ways in which you can make them more energy efficient in the process.

 


Allstate Tint & Blinds

Call us at 954.963.9877 or Request a FREE Estimate Today!

Founded in 1988 in Hollywood, Florida and has served 1,000′s of customers with premium automotive, residential, commercial and marine window tinting. We carry Suntek and Huper Optiks Ceramic Window Films.  In addition to Window Tinting,  Allstate Tint & Blinds offers Roll-Up Shades, Vertical Blinds, Bamboo Blinds, Faux Blinds and 2″ Wood Blinds.

In 2013, Allstate Tint & Blinds celebrated their Grand Opening of their new location at 2011 SW 70th Avenue, #A17, Davie, Florida 33317 (Located across the street from the Signature Grand) We advise to please call ahead for an appointment, or as always you are welcome to drop off your vehicles.

 


 

Solar Screens

Solar screens are made up of dark, tightly woven mesh that can be installed on the outside or on the inside of your window. Installing solar screens offers a few advantages. They are relatively inexpensive and can help reduce energy usage. They are also a great solution for any windows that receive extended exposure to the sun throughout the day. Solar screens help reduce the amount of heat inside your home, blocking as much as 90% of outside heat. They also help reduce glare, protect privacy, and help prevent heat damage to the interior of your home.

Window Tinting

Window tinting is another option if you’re looking to upgrade your windows without replacing them. Windows can be tinted in a wide range of colors and shades, and with a variety of different materials. Each treatment can accomplish a different purpose, or help achieve a certain look, with different pros and cons for each.

Here are the five most common types of window tint:

  1. Standard – Helps block sunlight
  1. Ceramic – Considered the best type of window tint as it reflects the sun’s UV rays and reduces glare.
  1. Decorative – Used for aesthetic purposes and replicates the look of stained/frosted glass. It’s commonly used to transform regular windows into ornate ones without having to replace the glass or install a new window.
  1. Security – Used to reinforce and strengthen windows to help protect against breakage and natural disasters.
  1. Solar – Provides a scratch-resistant coating and utilizes polyester laminate. This film reduces UV and IR rays as well as glare, which helps improve visibility.

 


Cool World Window Tinting Solutions

(954) 871-5870

We are the South Florida Leading Window Tinting Company. We only use the Highest Quality of Products in our Industry. Which means that the job we do Lasts.

Cool World Window Tinting Solutions is an authorized Madico Sunscape & SolarGard window tint dealer, with over 20 years window tinting experience.

Cool World Window Tinting Solutions uses only high-quality Madico window films, which are guaranteed not to bubble or change colors and will keep your home, office or auto comfortably cool for many years to come.

Cool World Window Tinting Solutions is a fully mobile window tint company that will come to you at your home or office.  Cool World Window Tinting Solutions is fully licensed and insured and offers a full line of window tinting products to maximize energy savings for your home or business.


Jansen Shutters & Windows

941-484-4700

It is our goal to shelter your family, protect your investments and secure your well-being.

The Jansen Family have been serving the homeowner and construction industry of the Florida Gulf Coast from Fort Meyers to North TampaTarpon Springs and the Islands since 1973. In 2002, Phillip Jansen and his son Travis opened Jansen Shutters & Windows with the intention of providing the best hurricane protection necessary to ensure the safety of your family and business.

As our company grew we expanded out product line to include, Out Door Living Products. Which includes our exclusive “Jansen Vista” Motorized Insect Screens, Fabrication, Louver, Pergolas and more. We are proud to say everything we manufacture is American Made. Our work does not stop at installation, we believe it is necessary to educate our customers about the products we provide. So you can pick the best products that fits your lifestyle and budget.


 

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11 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Public Adjuster in South Florida by Stellar Adjusting

11 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Public Adjuster in South Florida by Stellar Adjusting

  • Posted: Jan 04, 2022
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If you’re hiring a public adjuster, it’s important to keep in mind that this person is going to be working for you. You’re the boss, so you’ve got to think like a boss. That means interviewing them and asking the right questions. We’ve listed eleven questions that you should ask any public adjuster before you make the hire.

 

 

WHY HIRE A PUBLIC ADJUSTER?

hiring a public adjusterBefore we talk about how to hire a public adjuster, let’s talk for a second about why you would want to hire one in the first place. The short answer is that you hopefully will never need to hire one. However, if your home or business is damaged, you’ll need to fire an insurance claim, which means providing the insurance company with an estimate of the damages. If the claim is very large, or if the insurance company thinks they can get away with paying less, they will send an insurance adjuster to draw up their own estimate.

When this happens, you have a few options. You can accept the insurance company’s offer, you can sue the insurance company, or you can hire a public adjuster to make a counteroffer. Accepting the company’s offer isn’t always the best idea. In some cases, you may be asked to settle for far less than the actual cost of damages. However, suing the insurance company can get expensive. They have teams of corporate lawyers, and you’ll end up spending a lot of money on your own legal case. Meanwhile, you’ll receive no funds during the legal process, so you’ll have to repair your home or business and pay your lawyer out of pocket.

A public insurance adjuster offers a great compromise. They can get you a better settlement, and you won’t have to pay out of pocket. For more information, read our guide on when to contact a Florida public adjuster.

 

1. HOW LONG HAVE THEY BEEN IN BUSINESS?

There’s nothing wrong with being new to the business. Even the biggest, most prestigious firms once started as a single adjuster opening their own small business. But if someone is just starting out in their own business, you’d expect them to have previous experience working for another firm. If they haven’t, steer clear.

2. ARE THEY PART OF A TEAM?

A single public adjuster, even a very well-qualified one, can only be so knowledgeable. A team of adjusters can pool their knowledge and help each other out, leading to better results for their clients.

3. ARE THEY LICENSED IN FLORIDA?

If you’re in another state, this applies to your state as well. An unlicensed public adjuster isn’t just breaking the law by practicing without a license. They can also put you at risk, since there’s no guarantee that they’re even competent.

4. DO THEY HAVE EXPERIENCE WITH CLAIMS LIKE YOURS?

For any qualified public adjuster, south Florida hurricanes should be par for the course. But if you’re dealing with an unusual claim – for example, if a car ran off the road and into your living room – you’ll want to know that your public adjuster is qualified to deal with your claim’s quirkier aspects.

5. HOW DO THEY GET PAID?

A public insurance adjuster should only get paid when you get paid, taking a percentage of your claim. If your adjuster is asking for an up-front fee, don’t do business with them. What they’re doing is unethical.

6. DO THEY HAVE EXPERIENCE DEALING WITH MORTGAGE LENDERS?

Depending on your situation, you may still owe money to a mortgage lender, and they’re most likely not going to be patient with you while the insurance company handles your claim. An experienced public adjuster can oftentimes serve as an intermediary to help you deal with your mortgage lender’s demands.

7. WHO WILL PREPARE MY CLAIM?

The opposite problem of working with too small a team is working with a big firm that farms out their work to third-party contractors. So you can be paying for a prestigious name, but getting freelance service. Make sure that your public insurance adjuster will be personally involved with your claim.

8. CAN I STAY INVOLVED WITH MY CLAIM?

Some public adjusters prefer that their clients not communicate directly with the insurance company. Others are comfortable to share these responsibilities with their clients. There’s no right or wrong answer to this question, but it’s important that you and your adjuster are on the same page here.

9. CAN THEY PROVIDE LOCAL REFERENCES?

The average person may never need a public adjuster’s services or may need them once or twice at most. If their adjuster did a good job, they’re going to remember it. Ask your prospective public adjuster for references. If they’re not prepared to offer any, scratch them off your list.

10. HOW MANY CLAIMS ARE THEY HANDLING?

Sometimes, in the aftermath of a natural disaster, public adjusters can become overwhelmed with claims from a large number of people. In this case, a qualified, competent adjuster may simply be too busy to give your claim the individual attention it deserves.

11. WHAT ARE THEIR ERRORS AND OMISSIONS POLICY?

Errors and Omissions is the insurance industry’s version of malpractice insurance. It ensures that if your public adjuster makes a mistake that costs you money, they’ll be able to compensate you. Every licensed public adjuster should carry a policy. If they’re not willing to share this information with you, tell them to take a hike.

 

On SFPMA: View Our Claims Page for all your Damage Needs. Find Law Firms, Adjusters and Roofing Companies ready to help

 

HOW TO FIND A CLAIMS ADJUSTER IN FLORIDA

If you’re hiring a public adjuster in Florida, consider hiring Stellar Public Adjusting. Our qualified adjusters are experienced in Florida home and business claims, and we don’t hire out our work to independent contractors. When your adjuster shows up to create your claim, you can rest assured that this is the same person who will be dealing with the insurance company on your behalf.

Use our web form to contact us today. If you have an urgent problem that requires immediate assistance, call our office at 305-570-3519.

Andria Rosendahl
Public Adjuster
2450 NE Miami Gardens Drive, Suite 200, Miami Florida 33180
Cell: 305-710-7922
Fax: 305-873-8719
E: Andria@stellaradjusting.com
W: www.stellaradjusting.com
Check Out Our Blog At: www.stellaradjusting.com/blog/
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Members perform services for condo and hoa’s providing everything from Accounting to Window Tinting

Members perform services for condo and hoa’s providing everything from Accounting to Window Tinting

  • Posted: Dec 28, 2021
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Finding the Right Management, Business and Service Company!

Board Members that represent Condos and HOA’s all over Florida. Property Management Companies, Property Owners and Private Landlords that wish to stay informed and up to date with our industry.  Having a reliable source where industry professionals can find top companies is important to them.

  “Having a Trusted Member to care for their Properties through Management, Business Related Services or Maintenance Services” is what they get!

 

Members perform services for condo and hoa’s providing everything from accounting and office management, collections and financing, day to day management oversight with meetings and Legal oversight and compliance. Then there are the maintenance of the properties, Management Members have all of the State of Florida Services and Business members where they can select what they need from 1,000’s of pre screened and licensed companies on our directory. Clients get access to thousands of companies in our industry, These companies are ready to help with everything from Management, Business to Services of your properties.
What you get with your membership!
  • You are listed on our Florida Directory where Clients search to find top companies working in our industry.
  • We Market Companies to Clients from Board Members of Condo and HOA’s all over Florida.
  • Write Articles for our Blog that are sent to our Industry, Let them get to know what you do!
  • Unlike others our Directory is Open.  We have a Top Team that constantly shares about you using Social Media, Articles and Direct Emails and our Publications. Members send us company information we send this information to Clients all over Florida.
  • We have an Industry Publication:  FLORIDA RISING MAGAZINE Read the Florida Rising Magazine –  Members can be placed on the Magazine Directory and take out Advertising so readers can learn more about the services they provide.
  • Take out Advertising in the Magazine and Write Articles published each month. When you take out: (*Half Page and *Full Page Ads)
  • Every new member is given Free Ads in our Magazine for a few months, so readers can learn more about them and their companies.
  • When you Join: Memberships are set up with recurring billing that takes place each year on the month you joined through our business office.

IT STARTS WITH LISTING YOUR COMPANY ON OUR DIRECTORY

“We bring Board Members, Property Managers and Owners to our Website”

Through your Membership you can be seen by the Decision Makers, Through your membership we help with forming relationships in our industry that lead to increased business for your company and lasting relationships for you.

Become a Member!

Get your company listed on the Florida Directory

So Property Managers, Condo & HOA Board Members can find you!

Who are our Clients you ask?

Board Members that represent Condos and HOA’s all over Florida. Property Management Companies, Property Owners and Private Landlords that wish to stay informed and up to date with our industry.  For these people having a reliable source is important to them and with our goal of “Having a Trusted Member to care for their Properties either through Management, Business Related Services or Maintenance Services” is what they get!

 


SFPMA is thankful to the various vendors that have become members that service the many managed communities over the years. All Companies that wish to work with the Florida Property Management, Condo and HOA industries are listed, They are then in a position to be selected to work on properties all over the State of Florida.  SFPMA has a responsibility to properly screen all vendors prior to authorizing memberships for service requests and bidding out contracts for our Clients.

When you are listed on the Florida Directory, Clients can find you as one of the Top Companies used in our industry. Your company will benefit from being listed. “Start forming lasting relationships in the Property Management Industry”

 

Thank you for deciding to become a member with SFPMA, You’ve made the right choice!

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We have 2022 Sales for Members: Advertising in our Magazine and in the News Blast and on our website.

We have 2022 Sales for Members: Advertising in our Magazine and in the News Blast and on our website.

  • Posted: Dec 28, 2021
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Take advantage of our Advertising Sales.

Members Advertising in our magazine,News Blast and Website are avail for the new year.

 


 

ADVERTISING SALES

 

1-  We are running this sale for all members become a featured sponsor of our Email News Blast

  • Every week we publish our Email Blast filled with News, Articles, Member Information, This is sent 3 days every week at 9am
  • Your company send us a 300px by 300px logo picture we link to your website.
  • Be seen by over 230,000 readers as sponsors.  52weeks @3x every week.  In every posted Email your company is set on this with your logo as a featured sponsor.

Special Price of 450.00 for the entire year

This is limited there are only 15 spots  Act now. we are getting ready for 2022

NOTE: our news feed has been upgraded with featured post pictures that are displayed for the Articles in these email blasts.

 

2- Take out Advertising in our Publication – FLORIDA RISING MAGAZINE

  • Take out half and full pages 12 months of company advertising
  • take advantage of this special pricing
  • See our Advertising FLAT Rates: This Special ends FEB 2022.

    Business Card size:(12 months/200.00)

    Quarter Page: (12 months/450.00)

    Half Page: (12 months/700.00)

    Full Page: (12 months/950.00)

All Ads taken out for this special will run in every edition at this flat price. You can write articles every month we will publish. Your company is set on the Category sections in our magazine

 

3- Contact us for Advertising banners on the Pages of our website

 

Call us today and lock your Spaces or Fill out the Form We will call you!

 

    Main Contact Form SFPMA

    Your Name (required)

    Your Email (required)

    Phone: We will call you back (required)

    Your Website URL

    Subject

    Your Message

     

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    Allstate Resource Management specializes in wetland management in South Florida and preventative weed control to maintain a healthy wetland environment.

    Allstate Resource Management specializes in wetland management in South Florida and preventative weed control to maintain a healthy wetland environment.

    • Posted: Dec 22, 2021
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    Allstate Resource Management specializes in wetland management in South Florida and preventative weed control to maintain a healthy wetland environment.

    Wetlands are frequently mandated by state and county statute. When you work with Allstate, you can be assured that we are following all regulations and mandates for wetland preserves and wetland management in South Florida.

    Did you know! In Florida there are more 400 water recycling projects, making our state a national leader in the use of reclaimed water. The treatment process eliminates harmful substances, but leaves traces of nitrogen and phosphorous that act as fertilizers when reclaimed water is applied to lawns and landscape. Reclaimed water can cause spikes in algae growth on lakes.

    Call us at 954-382-9766 for more information on causes for algae growth

     

    May your days be filled with peace, hope, and joy this holiday season.

    As always, thank you for your business, loyalty, and support.

    Sincerely,

    All of us at Allstate Resource Management

     


     

    Allstate Resource Management has over 25 years of experience in maintaining the health of lakes, ponds, wetlands, and stormwater systems. We have continued since our inception to be the leader in resource management. Our services include lake managementwetland managementstormwater drain cleaning and maintenance, erosion controlfish stockingnative plantingsdebris removalwater qualityaquatic pest control, and upland management. All of our technicians are thoroughly trained and certified in order to meet the strict standards imposed by governmental agencies. This ensures that your property will be treated by only the most competent individuals who are proud of the services we render.

    In addition to providing a healthy habitat, we specialize in the installation and maintenance of beautiful color lit fountains, bringing beauty and enjoyment to any lake or pond.

    We also offer support services for property managers and HOA’s including educational presentations and CEU programs. Our approved courses offer continuing education credit to CAMs. Find us on the SFPMA Members Directory.

     A stormwater system is a tool for managing the runoff from rainfall. When rainwater lands on rooftops, parking lots, streets, driveways and other surfaces that water cannot penetrate, the runoff flows into grates, swales or ditches located around your property and neighborhood. These grates, swales and ditches carry the runoff into stormwater ponds. A stormwater pond is specifically designed to help prevent flooding and remove pollutants from the water before it can drain into the groundwater or into streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands, or the ocean.
    Call us today to talk to one of our Stormwater Specialists at 954-382-9766 or info@allstatemanagement.com

    Colleen Sullivan
    Marketing Manager
    www.allstatemanagement.com
    6900 SW 21st Court, Building #9
    Davie, Florida 33317
    Phone: (954) 382-9766

     

     

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    DECONSTRUCTING THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT A Plain English Explanation by Kaye Bender Rembaum

    DECONSTRUCTING THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT A Plain English Explanation by Kaye Bender Rembaum

    • Posted: Dec 19, 2021
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    DECONSTRUCTING THE CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT A Plain English Explanation

    by Kaye Bender RembaumRembaum’s Association Roundup

    If your community association has engaged the services of a contractor, engineer, architect, or other construction or design professional to perform a maintenance, repair, replacement, or capital improvement project, you know the process can be overwhelming. No matter the mad rush to execute the contract as soon as possible, when beginning such projects, no matter how big or small, the board needs to ensure the contract adequately protects the association. Even the smallest of projects can have unexpected, disastrous consequences. A few of the more common provisions which every board member should understand follow.

    The Indemnity Provision

    In today’s extremely litigious world, it is important that your association does what it can to protect itself against unforeseen claims that can arise out of the contractor’s performance of the work. For example, assume a crane fell on the building being repaired, the contractor accidentally damaged the elevator shaft, or worse still, a life is lost. An indemnity provision provides that the contractor will indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the association from and against claims arising out of or resulting from the performance of the work by the contractor or any of its employees, subcontractors, suppliers, etc.

    Indemnification provisions can be tricky to understand. The general contractor, engineer, and design professionals (aka the architect) may seek to avoid and/or cap their overall liability. Even a small contract can have significant consequences if the negligence of the contractor causes significant damage or injury.

    Rarely does the inclusion of a single word have disastrous consequences; however, a recent trend we have seen in many contracts is the contractor requiring the indemnity obligation to be limited only to damage caused by the contractor’s “sole” negligence. As events which cause loss or damage rarely occur by the “sole” actions of an individual, this provision significantly diminishes the contractor’s responsibility to indemnify the association. The association should look out for any indemnity provision which provides that the contractor is only responsible to indemnify for its “sole” negligence. Without getting into too much complexity, Florida is a “contributory negligence” state. This means each party is responsible to satisfy a judgment against them in proportion to their responsibility for the blame. So, if the contractor is found to be 33 percent responsible for an accident, then it pays 33 percent of the final judgment award. But, if the contract indemnity provision required sole negligence, the contractor would pay nothing at all because the accident was not “solely” caused by the contractor. Youch!

    Another trend we see is the contractor limiting its liability to damage caused by its “gross negligence,” which by definition excludes “simple negligence.” As a brief explanation, simple negligence is when a person fails to take reasonable precautions that any prudent person would take in similar circumstances and their actions cause harm (for example, a driver who runs a stop sign and causes an accident). Gross negligence is extreme indifference or reckless disregard for the safety of others (for example, driving 100 mph in a parking lot and injuring a pedestrian). As any claims arising out of the work are likely to result from the contractor’s simple negligence, this heightened standard is not favorable to the association.

    If the contractor is insistent on limiting its liability, the association may consider limiting the contractor’s indemnification obligation to the maximum payable under the contractor’s insurance policy. This way, the contractor is not on the hook for unlimited liability, but the association has some decent protection as claims can be covered up to the maximum amount payable under the insurance policy. However, in the event of a catastrophic loss or casualty event, even the amount payable under the insurance policy may not be enough to protect the association.

    In addition to these limitations, “design professionals” have the added benefit of statutory authority to further limit their liability in a contract (they must have better lobbyists). Section 558.0035, Florida Statutes, provides a procedure by which a design professional can exclude any “individual liability” for damages resulting from negligence occurring within the course and scope of a professional services contract. In other words, the design professional will not be personally liable to the association for any negligence in its design if the contract includes a provision that excludes such personally liability. Section 558.002(7), Florida Statutes, defines a “design professional” as a person who is licensed in the state of Florida as an architect, landscape architect, engineer, surveyor, geologist, or a registered interior designer. Therefore, if your association is contracting with any of the foregoing design professionals, you will likely need to negotiate this provision.

    You should also be aware that disputes over the enforceability of the indemnification clause do not automatically include prevailing party attorneys’ fees unless the indemnification provision specifically provides that, in the event of a dispute concerning the applicability of the indemnification, the prevailing party must be indemnified for their attorneys’ fees, costs, and expenses incurred in enforcing their right to be indemnified.

    Insurance Provisions

    To ensure there are sufficient funds to satisfy an indemnity judgment in favor of the association, it is important that the association require the contractor to carry certain minimum insurance. Therefore, the contract should contain a clause which provides that the contractor will maintain such general liability insurance as will protect the contractor and the association from claims that may arise out of or result from the contractor’s operations under the contract documents in the amounts set out in the contract. Additionally, the association should ensure that the contractor obtains sufficient workers’ compensation coverage.

    There are a couple of terms with which you should be familiar:

    • Certificate Holder: The certificate holder is merely entitled to the proof of insurance, nothing more. When the policy holders have their insurance agents issue a certificate of insurance to the entity that hired the contractor to do the work, that entity becomes a certificate holder. It is simply the contractor’s way of saying, “I have insurance.” Certificates show that the contract has the insurance policies in the limits shown on such certificate. It also provides that the certificate holder is entitled to know if the policy lapses.
    • Additional Insured: An additional insured is provided the same coverage and rights under the policy as the named insured. In other words, when you become an additional insured, you are entitled to the same insurance protections as the original policy holder. Therefore, in the event of loss, the association may file a claim on the contractor’s policy through its status as an additional insured.

    Thus, the contract should not only require that the contractor carry insurance but also provide that the contractor is obligated to provide a certificate of insurance evidencing the insurance coverage and containing an endorsement listing the association as an “additional insured.”

    In addition to the insurance requirements for the contractor, your association may consider purchasing builder’s risk insurance for the project. Builder’s risk insurance is designed to protect the owner of a construction site from loss and damage. This should be further discussed with the association’s insurance agent.

    Paying the Contractor

    During a major construction project, the association’s contractor will likely be working with several subcontractors to complete the work. The process for payments in such projects is set out in §713.13, Florida Statutes. (For a more detailed discussion on the construction payment process, you can read my prior article, “Construction Progress Payments: The Hidden Trap,” at rembaumsassociationroundup.com, originally published in the Florida Community Association Journal, February 2020 edition.)

    By way of brief explanation, when the project commences, the association records a “Notice of Commencement” identifying the contractor and the legal description of where the work is being performed. The purpose of the Notice of Commencement is to inform all subcontractors and suppliers that if they intend to provide goods and/or services to the property, and if they want to have proper legal standing to record a lien against the property in the event they are not paid, the subcontractor and/or supplier must serve a “Notice to Owner” to the association. The Notice to Owner informs the association of all subcontractors working under the general contractor and all suppliers who provide suppliers and materials to the job site.

    In exchange for payments to the general contractor, the general contractor provides the association with “partial payment affidavits” for each payment and a “final payment affidavit” upon conclusion of the work at hand. The subcontractors and suppliers provide the association “partial releases” for the payment received from the general contractor using the general contractor as the delivery conduit to deliver the partial release to the association. This method ensures that subcontractors and suppliers cannot later claim that they were not paid. However, in order to ensure this protection, it is important that the contract requires the contractor to provide the subcontractors’ and suppliers’ partial releases contemporaneously with the association’s progress payment. With the partial releases in hand, in the event the contractor does not pay the subcontractors and suppliers, the association is fully protected.

    Some general contractors insist on providing the association with the partial releases from the subcontractors and suppliers one payment behind. This should be a red flag to your association because it means if the contractor fails to pay the subcontractors and suppliers after receiving payment from the association, the association will still have to pay the subcontractors and suppliers. In such event, the association will end up having to pay twice for all or part of the same work.

    Prevailing Attorney’s Fees

    Another important consideration is the prevailing party attorneys’ fees provision of the contract. An attorneys’ fee provision generally provides that in the event of litigation to enforce the terms of the contract, the prevailing party is entitled to recover their attorneys’ fees. However, this provision must be carefully worded to ensure that your association will be able to recover its attorneys’ fees.

    Termination

    Most contracts provide that the association may terminate the contract for cause. The termination for cause provision should include examples of conduct by the contractor which would entitle the association to terminate the contract for cause. In addition to termination for cause, we recommend the inclusion of a “without cause” termination provision. This provision gives the association an out in the event the contractor is not working out, but the contractor’s conduct does not rise to the level which would allow dismissal for cause.

    Generally, if an association terminated an agreement without good cause, and unless otherwise spelled out in the contract, the contractor would likely be entitled to approximately 15 to 22 percent of the contract price for its anticipated lost profit and overhead.

    Payment and Performance Bonds

    Another way the association can protect itself is by requiring the contractor to obtain “payment and performance bonds,” which are most often purchased together as a set. While doing so typically adds three to five percent to the total contract price, it is well worth it. In addition, if the contractor is not able to provide such a bond because the bonding companies will not bond the contractor, it is very telling because not every contractor is bondable.

    A “performance bond” is a surety bond issued by a bonding company or bank to guarantee the satisfactory completion of the work by the contractor. It acts to protect the association in the event the contractor fails to complete its contractual obligations.

    A “payment bond” guarantees the contractor will pay all laborers, material suppliers, and subcontractors engaged by the contractor for the work. In the event the association pays the contractor, but the contractor fails to pay the laborers, material suppliers, and/or subcontractors, the surety will step in to pay same.

    Force Majeure

    Many contracts contain force majeure language which provides that the parties will not be responsible to the other if they are unable to fulfil the terms of the contract due to events beyond the control of the parties. Most often, a force majeure event adds delay to the targeted project completion date and avoids claims for breach of contract due to the delay. Such events may be acts of God, flood, fire, hurricanes, war, invasion, terrorist acts, government order or law, actions, embargoes, or blockades, etc. Of late, for reasons that need no explanation, pandemics are added to this list, too.

    The above discussion is not meant to be all inclusive. There are so many other important provisions to consider, but space is limited. To ensure your association is protected, the association should always rely on its legal counsel to review the association’s contracts and make the necessary revisions to assist in the  protection of the association.

    The Kaye Bender Rembaum Team Remains Available To You and Your Community Association

    Happy Holidays from all of us at Kaye Bender Rembaum

     


    Kaye Bender Rembaum

    We are dedicated to providing clients with an unparalleled level of personalized and professional service regardless of their size and takes into account their individual needs and financial concerns. Our areas of concentration include

    1200 Park Central Boulevard South, Pompano Beach, FL. Tel: 954.928.0680
    9121 North Military Trail, Suite 200, Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Tel: 561.241.4462
    1211 N. Westshore Boulevard, Suite 409, Tampa, FL. Tel: 813.375.0731
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