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

This condominium HOA was ready to make a change to the appearance of their building. After researching multiple companies, they selected Chucks Painting Inc to complete this project.

This condominium HOA was ready to make a change to the appearance of their building. After researching multiple companies, they selected Chucks Painting Inc to complete this project.

  • Posted: Oct 20, 2024
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Located in Pompano Beach Florida.
This condominium HOA was ready to make a change to the appearance of their building. After researching multiple companies, they selected Chucks Painting Inc. to complete this project.
“We are happy to say they were not disappointed and we exceeded their expectations.”

Please call or email Chuck’s Painting Inc. for all your Commercial, Residential and Industrial painting needs.

954-868-0494

 

 

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Time to start thinking about taxes — making sure not to miss out on any tax credits. by RMS Accounting.

Time to start thinking about taxes — making sure not to miss out on any tax credits. by RMS Accounting.

Time to start thinking about Taxes — making sure not to miss out on any tax credits.

Did you do any energy improvements to your home? New energy efficient Air Conditioning, Heating, Ceiling Fans, Solar Panels, or Hot Water Heaters? Buy an Electric or Highbred Vehicle?
If so there might just be a tax credit in your stocking this year.? contact us today let us help with your Accounting and Taxes for your Business, Condo and HOA’s

RMS Business

Accounting

We provide extensive consulting to every accounting client. Detailed management notes are provided in addition to a comprehensive Financial Statement package.

Bookkeeping

Our bookkeeping help goes far beyond just balancing the books. Our Bookkeeping outsourcing, saves you time and money, while reducing stress levels.

Expatriate

RMS Accounting has a program that allows companies with expatriate staff to provide tax planning and preparation services to its staff anywhere in the world.

Tax

In addition to getting your corporate tax preparation right and completed the first time, our tax professional will also assist you with tax planning to help you reduce next year’s business taxes as well.

Software

At Royale Management Services, we offer support for two of the top business software programs available.

Payroll

When running a business, it makes sense to outsource tasks that can be handled best by others, save you money or allow you to be more productive. Payroll is one of the classic tasks that generally meets all of these criteria.

Credit Card Services

RMS Accounting supports Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Gift and Loyalty card, and Check processing. In addition will gladly support EBT card programs as well as a complete national debit card program.

Outsourcing

Originally, we focused on tax preparation for small to medium business, but today we do accounting outsourcing for everyone, from personal to large corporations.
2319 N Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL, United States, Florida
+1 954-563-1269
info@rmsaccounting.com
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Here’s an overview of the potential risks associated with ignoring water damage: by SERVTEC Restoration

Here’s an overview of the potential risks associated with ignoring water damage: by SERVTEC Restoration

  • Posted: Sep 09, 2024
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Here’s an overview of the potential risks associated with ignoring water damage:

 

Structural Integrity

  • Foundation Weakening: Water can erode the foundation of a building, causing cracks and instability. Over time, this can lead to significant structural damage, including shifting or settling of the structure.
  • Wood Rot: Prolonged exposure to moisture causes wooden structures like beams, joists, and studs to rot. This can compromise the building’s stability, leading to sagging floors, walls, and potentially collapse.

  • Metal Corrosion: Metal components such as nails, screws, and steel beams can rust when exposed to moisture, weakening the overall structural integrity.

Mold Growth

  • Health Hazards: Mold spores can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and other health problems, particularly in individuals with asthma or weakened immune systems.
  • Widespread Contamination: If water damage is not addressed promptly, mold can spread throughout the building, making remediation more complex and expensive.

  • Electrical Risks

    • Electrical System Damage: Water can seep into electrical systems, corroding wiring and causing short circuits, which pose a fire hazard.
  • Increased Risk of Electrocution: Damaged electrical systems increase the risk of electrocution, especially in areas with standing water.

  • Decreased Property Value

    • Lower Resale Value: A property with untreated water damage is likely to lose value due to the potential for hidden damage and the cost of repairs. Prospective buyers may be deterred by the need for extensive remediation.
  • Insurance Issues: Untreated water damage can complicate insurance claims and lead to higher premiums, as insurers may view the property as a higher risk.

  • Air Quality Issues

    • Musty Odors: Stagnant water and mold growth can create musty odors that are difficult to eliminate, affecting the indoor air quality and comfort.
  • Increased Humidity: Water damage can lead to higher indoor humidity levels, which can exacerbate mold growth and contribute to further deterioration of building materials.

  • Long-Term Repair Cost

    • Escalating Costs: The longer water damage is left untreated, the more extensive and expensive repairs will become. Early intervention is critical to minimizing repair costs and preventing further damage.
  • Comprehensive Remediation: Addressing untreated water damage may require a full-scale remediation effort, including mold removal, structural repairs, and electrical system replacement.

  • In conclusion, immediate action is essential to mitigate these risks and protect both the building and its occupants. Regular inspections and prompt repair of any water intrusion are key to preventing long-term damage

     

    To Schedule a Mold Inspection or our

    24 HR Emergency Response Services

    Call Servtec Restoration

    (305) 744-6547


    “When Disaster Strikes, We Are Ready To Respond!”

    Licensed & Insured

    MRSA3914/MRSR4050/ IICRC Certified Firm

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    Webinar Recording – Ask Us Anything: Aeration Edition by SOLitude

    Webinar Recording – Ask Us Anything: Aeration Edition by SOLitude

    • Posted: Sep 09, 2024
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    Webinar Recording
    Ask Us Anything: Aeration Edition

    Did you miss our first-ever “Ask Us Anything” webinar? No worries!

    Watch the recording and listen to our experts answer common questions about fountains, aerators, and oxygenation technologies.

     

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    FIDUCIARY DUTY: What it Means to Your Community Association. by REMBAUM’S ASSOCIATION ROUNDUP

    FIDUCIARY DUTY: What it Means to Your Community Association. by REMBAUM’S ASSOCIATION ROUNDUP

    • Posted: Sep 08, 2024
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    What duty does a community association board member owe to their association? What happens if that duty is breached? During the legislative session, legislation was proposed that would have made directors criminally liable for failure to timely respond to official record requests, among other provisions.

    The legislation in House Bill 919 was proposed by Representative Porras in response to the alleged $3.4 million dollar embezzlement scheme that took place at the Hammocks Community Association, located in Miami-Dade County. Parts of this proposed bill were well-intentioned; however, several provisions were commonly viewed as too broad and expansive.

    On November 15, 2022, the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office announced charges related to the Hammocks’ criminal case, including racketeering, organized scheme to defraud, money laundering, grand theft, and fabricating physical evidence against five board members. These board members have been accused of the following:

    i) running a scheme in which they used HOA checks and HOA credit cards from 55 bank accounts to pay for “no-show” work by shell companies or vendors, who would funnel money back to the directors for their personal use;

    ii) withholding official records from members; and,

    iii) failure to hold valid elections, among other bad acts.

    If found guilty these board members overtly breached their fiduciary duty to their association.

    During the 2023 legislative session, House Bill 919 initially contained significant criminal penalties to punish board members who failed to provide official records when they otherwise should have, criminal penalties for kickbacks, and criminal penalties for improper election interference, among other provisions. Such laws, while well intended, went overboard as evidenced by the creation of criminal penalties for failure to provide official records, as such severe criminal penalties for operational matters would likely only deter good people from running for the board. Recognizing this potential issue, parts of HB 919 were tempered a bit prior to it becoming law. That said, in the opinion of this author, new laws with new criminal penalties are not the answer. Bad people do bad things, and no amount of laws will likely significantly change that. So, what is the answer?

    One answer is to shore up the educational and certification requirements for board members. At present, there are two ways to be certified as a board member. One method is to take a State-approved class, which provides an overview of the voluminous information board members need to know in order to perform their duties. The other method is to sign a piece of paper that the board member has read the governing documents, will abide by them, and will faithfully discharge their duties. This second method should be eliminated as there is no method to confirm compliance, and this method does not have any educational component. In addition, continuing education requirements should be required for any board member serving consecutive years.

    During a board certification class, time should be spent discussing the term “fiduciary duty.” While the term is repeatedly used in Chapters 718 and 720 of the Florida Statutes, it is not expressly defined in these statutes. Section 718.111, Florida Statutes, makes reference to Section 617.0830, Florida Statutes, which provides for general standards for directors of not-for-profit corporations, such as community associations.

    Section 617.0830, Florida Statutes, provides the following:

        1. A director shall discharge his or her duties as a director, including his or her duties as a member of a committee i) in good faith; ii) with the care an ordinarily prudent person in a like position would exercise under similar circumstances; and iii) in a manner he or she reasonably believes to be in the best interests of the corporation.
        2. In discharging his or her duties, a director may rely on information, opinions, reports, or statements, including financial statements and other financial data, if prepared or presented by: i) One or more officers or employees of the corporation whom the director reasonably believes to be reliable and competent in the matters presented; ii) legal counsel, public accountants, or other persons as to matters the director reasonably believes are within the persons’ professional or expert competence; or iii) a committee of the board of directors of which he or she is not a member if the director reasonably believes the committee merits confidence.
        3. A director is not acting in good faith if he or she has knowledge concerning the matter in question that makes reliance otherwise permitted by subsection (2) unwarranted.
        4. A director is not liable for any action taken as a director, or any failure to take any action, if he or she performed the duties of his or her office in compliance with this section.

    Still, though, there is no express definition of the term “fiduciary duty.” The purpose of studying fiduciary relationships is to identify the areas where it exists and gain an insight into the duties of a fiduciary. After all, every board member is a fiduciary for their community association. Common definitions of the term “fiduciary” include:

        • A fiduciary relationship is a relation between two parties wherein one party (fiduciary) has the duty to act in the best interest of the other party (beneficiary or principal).
        • A fiduciary is a person who holds a legal or ethical relationship of trust with one or more other parties. Typically, a fiduciary prudently takes care of money or other assets for another person.
        • A fiduciary duty is a relationship in which one party places special trust, confidence, and reliance in and is influenced by another who has a fiduciary duty to act for the benefit of the party.
        • Most importantly, and germane to this discussion, a fiduciary is a person or organization that acts on behalf of another person or persons, putting their clients’ interests ahead of their own, with a duty to preserve good faith and trust.

    In other words, a good community association board member puts the interest of their association above their own personal interests. Thus, while we may not be able to stop bad people from doing bad things, through continuing education we can help good people do better.

    To recap, there are three things that can be readily accomplished that would make a positive difference for Florida’s community associations.

        1. Remove the ability of a board member to be “certified” by signature alone.
        2. Require continuing education for board members serving continuous years.
        3. Amend Florida Statutes, Chapters 718 and 720, to include express definitions of fiduciary duty so that it is made patently clear that every board member must put their community association above and ahead of their own personal interests.

     

     

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    Need a few reasons to digitize your paper-based engineering and architectural drawings? How about these?

    Need a few reasons to digitize your paper-based engineering and architectural drawings? How about these?

    • Posted: Aug 06, 2024
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    1- Accessibility and Sharing. Digital files are easy to search, copy and share, saving valuable time and improving collaboration.
    2- Storage and Document Integrity. Digital drawings are much less expensive to store than paper copies and are not subject to degradation over time.
    3- Flexibility. Digital drawings are easy to rework or update, streamlining change processes and speeding renovations.
    4- Details. Digital designs allow for the addition of audio or video to individual elements, providing an extra level of detail (e.g., materials, site layout, construction processes).
    At the end of the day, digitization is a huge time and cost saver.
    Call Us—561.372.1290
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    Property damage claims encompass more than just the obvious cases. From water damage to fire damage and beyond,

    Property damage claims encompass more than just the obvious cases. From water damage to fire damage and beyond,

    • Posted: Aug 06, 2024
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    “Types of Property Damage Claims: Beyond the Obvious”

    Property damage claims encompass more than just the obvious cases. From water damage to fire damage and beyond, we handle a wide range of property damage claims. If your property has been damaged, contact Maus Law Firm to discuss your options and seek the compensation you deserve.

    WHY MAUS LAW FIRM?

     

    Direct Contact with Experienced Attorneys

    When you hire us, you speak one on one with our skilled Fort Lauderdale personal injury attorneys or property damage lawyers. We have decades of combined experience between us, and we make sure our clients understand their claim and the legal process.

     

    We Accommodate Our Clients

    No two clients are the same. Maus Law Firm wants to assist all of the clients who need our services, so we offer 24/7 phone service, free estimates, Spanish-speaking staff members, house calls, after hours appointments and more.

     

    Results That Speak for Themselves

    Our Fort Lauderdale injury lawyers handled thousands of accident and property damage claims and received settlements over $1 million. Our happy clients have left us wonderful reviews, and we strive for the best legal outcome for each case we represent.

    Call For a Free Consultation   (855) 999-5297

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    United Professional Engineering (UPE) is a leading professional engineering company based in south-east Florida.

    United Professional Engineering (UPE) is a leading professional engineering company based in south-east Florida.

    • Posted: Aug 01, 2024
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    United Professional Engineering UPE has been in business since 2005 and we have a diverse team of Professional Engineers, Building Inspectors and General Contractors. Our services include Structural Engineering, Building Upkeep and Restoration Engineering, Building Inspections, Threshold Inspections, Civil Engineering and more.

    At UPE, we understand how valuable your time is and we are committed to providing our industry leading expertise to your next project. Our team welcomes any and all challenges to ensure a smooth and cost-effective project for all our clients and everyone involved. Your journey with us is important, and we take pride in making it memorable!

    Today, one of the largest investments is building a structure and how to maintain its lifespan. Structural integrity, environmental factors, atmospheric elements, and maintaining aesthetics are all important factors that we evaluate very carefully, when working on a project. At UPE our highly qualified licensed designers, engineers and general contractors promises to ensure your investment is protected.

    Our trusted team members are ready to listen, help and guide you through the process from start to finish. It doesn’t matter what size of your project, we will be able to alleviate your stress and provide you with the quality of service you deserve.

    Structural Engineering

    Professional Mailbox Installation and Repair Company Servicing all Florida Counties

    Professional Mailbox Installation and Repair Company Servicing all Florida Counties

    • Posted: Aug 01, 2024
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    ASAP Mailbox And More, Inc.

    239-262-1165

    Professional mailbox installation and repair company servicing all Florida counties

     

    ASAP Mailbox and More, Inc. supplies and installs all types of residential curbside mailboxes and all styles of cluster box units ( CBU’s) We are a one-stop source for everything related to installing a new mailbox. From removal of the existing mailbox, to the installation of the new one in concrete, to the address numbering, we handle everything and provide our services in all Florida counties.


    ASAP Mailbox And More, Inc.’s main facility is located in Cape Coral, Florida. From this main warehouse and fabrication location, we are able to sell and ship our mailboxes WITH INSTALLATION INCLUDED Nationwide in conjunction with our network of local dealers located in each county.

    We take pride in living up to our name “ASAP” when it comes to handling mailbox installs and repairs for HOA’s, property managers and individual homeowners.

    From providing complete Community mailbox and signage replacement to repairing a broken bracket for a homeowner, we always handle the project professionally and in a timely manner.

    If you need a Mailbox installed please fill out the form below, when filling out the form, make sure to select “I Need A Mailbox Installed” in the select box.

    If your need is urgent (mailbox installation, repairs or other needs), please call us at 877-272-7624.

         

    View and contact our Members Directory Page on SFPMA.COM

     

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    Hurricane Preparedness Kit: Your Family’s Lifesaver – Share this essential hurricane preparedness kit checklist with your loved ones. Let’s stay safe together! 

    Hurricane Preparedness Kit: Your Family’s Lifesaver – Share this essential hurricane preparedness kit checklist with your loved ones. Let’s stay safe together! 

    • Posted: Jul 24, 2024
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    Hurricane Preparedness Kit: Your Family’s Lifesaver

    Hurricane season is here and being prepared can make all the difference. Share this essential hurricane preparedness kit checklist with your loved ones. Let’s stay safe together!

    What to Include:
    1. Water: At least one gallon per person per day for three days.
    2. Non-Perishable Food: Canned goods, energy bars, and ready-to-eat meals.
    3. Flashlights: Make sure you have extra batteries too.
    4. First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic wipes, and necessary medications.
    5. Battery-Powered Radio: Stay informed with weather updates.
    6. Important Documents: Keep copies of IDs, insurance, and medical records.
    7. Multi-Tool Kit: Handy for various needs.
    8. Personal Hygiene Items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and sanitizer.
    9. Cash: In case ATMs and cards are inaccessible.
    10. Blankets and Clothing: Stay warm and dry.
    11. Phone Charger: Portable chargers can be a lifesaver.
    Remember, preparedness is the key to safety. Share this post to help others get ready for hurricane season! 🌀
    📞 (941) 484-4700
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    When unit owners refuse to pay their assessments, it puts everyone in a bind, condominium assessment liens might be one way?

    When unit owners refuse to pay their assessments, it puts everyone in a bind, condominium assessment liens might be one way?

    • Posted: Jul 16, 2024
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    Florida Condominium Associations and Homeowners Association Boards have many challenges in managing the needs of their communities. As a result, when unit owners refuse to pay their assessments, it puts everyone in a bind. Fortunately, there is a key tool that you may use in Florida to compel payment of the monies due: a condominium assessment lien.

    Collecting Assessment Revenue Through A Condominium Assessment Lien
    There are steps that must be taken in order for a condominium association lien to be properly filed. This is a brief summary of the steps:

     

    *A condominium association’s governing documents in conjunction with Section 718.116, Florida Statutes, are the genesis of the condominium association’s authority to impose and perfect assessment liens against individually owned units within the community.

     

     

    Delinquency Notice

    This is not a requirement but good collection practices dictate that the association attempt collection efforts prior to engaging a law firm. Sometimes the unit owner may have just forgotten to place the payment in the mail. These delinquency notices can help remind the unit owner of their payment obligation.

     

    Notice of Intent to Lien

    The first statutorily required step is to send a formal letter from the law firm announcing the association’s intent to place a lien on the unit for the failure to pay. The letter has very specific requirements and should be sent from the association’s attorney. If a condominium, the association must wait 30 days from the date of this letter to record its lien. The time frame for a Homeowners Association is 45 days.

     

    Claim of Lien

    This is the actual document that gets recorded in the public records and encumbers the unit. It must have the Unit legal description, the owners name and a description of the delinquency. There is a form in the statute and Florida law requires that this lien be created and recorded by the association attorney.

     

    Notice of Intent to Foreclose

    After the lien is recorded, another notice must go to the unit owner announcing the intention to take the unit by legal process. The association must also wait an additional 30 days after this notice is sent. 45 days for HOAs.

     

    Foreclosure Action

    This is the lawsuit that will take the unit. A Lis Pendens is recorded when the lawsuit is filed to provide public notice of the legal action on the lien. Most lien foreclosure actions result in either settlement of the claim of taking of the unit. Defenses to lien foreclose actions are tough to prove and seldom release the unit owner from the obligation to pay the assessment.

     

     

    Time Is not on your side, dont delay if this is the action you are taking?

    It is imperative that all these steps are followed to the tee or the lien may be dismissed outright. In addition to these steps, Florida condominium associations can take additional steps such as suspending unit owner common element or amenity rights. This is done by alerting the unit owner of the delinquency and then if amount is greater than $1,000 and 90 days the Board may consider the suspension of voting rights at a board meeting. The unit owner will then receive notice of the suspension after the vote has occurred.

     

    Florida Condominium Associations

    Under Florida State Law, only an attorney may draft a condominium assessment lien, because it contains a legal statement. Once the lien is filed, there is a one year timeline for Florida condominium associations to file suit. If the Association misses that deadline, the whole lien process will have to be redone. Therefore, it is paramount that the steps are followed properly, and in a timely fashion, or you may forfeit what is due to the community.

    Remember to contact your Attny, Ask them for the best options for your communities!

     

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