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Find Blog Articles for Florida’s Condo, HOA and the Management Industry.
Attorney Eric Glazer and co-host Karen Curtis will be taking your calls and YouTube questions on whatever topic you need answers to or whatever you need to get off your chest. Call us at 877-850-8585 during the show or chat with us on YouTube Live Chat. Condo Craze & HOAs Live on YouTube
Sunday@11am on YouTube! Link to the live stream
Tags: Board of Directors, Condo and HOA, Management News
Cohen Law Group would like to remind all Property Managers and CAMs that our firm has handled thousands and thousands of property damage insurance claims in Florida. We have decades of experience handling hurricane claims that have been denied, delayed, or reduced.
If you are unsure if your property sustained damage as a result of Hurricane Idalia you should ask for an inspection by a qualified contractor, estimator or building inspector to assess whether hurricane-force winds damaged or compromised the roofing system and building envelope. Many companies offer this initial inspection free of charge. Given the complexities of a large loss claim, consider consulting with an attorney experienced in handling commercial insurance claims for condominiums and homeowner’s associations.
Here’s more information on how we can help you:
Cohen Law Group is certified through the state of Florida for Property Manager and CAM Continuing Education Credits/Classes. We have a one to three-hour CE class called “A CAMs/Property Managers Guide to Property Damage Insurance Claims”
We can schedule a free lunch and learn with your CAMs and will provide an overview of our suggestions and strategies as well as some examples of our vast experience with Residential Property Damage and Commercial Large Loss.
If your residential, commercial, or industrial properties have property damage, our Insurance Claims Attorneys can help with everything from A-Z on hurricane claims.
Please call us today at 850-318-7474
immediately after a hurricane:
You have 1 year from the date of loss to report the claim. Please do not hesitate in reporting the claim immediately as you are aware there is storm damage. Believing the damages are below your deductible is not a defense to this and the insurance company will use every day you wait against you later.
Thoroughly document all emergency repairs before and after they are completed. Insurance companies will try to get out of paying for these services if they believe they do not have sufficient information.
If you are displaced from your home or property, please keep all invoices and receipts showing costs that you incur. Likewise, if you have any damaged personal property, please take photographs of it before you throw it away.
Insurance companies cannot cancel your policy while you have an open claim. You should speak to an attorney to understand your rights. Insurance companies will routinely request that you sign documents and give statements to them that can and will be used against you later.
489.147 Prohibited property insurance practices.—
(1) As used in this section, the term:
(a) “Prohibited advertisement” means any written or electronic communication by a contractor which encourages, instructs, or induces a consumer to contact a contractor or public adjuster for the purpose of making an insurance claim for roof damage, if such communication does not state in a font size of at least 12 points and at least half as large as the largest font size used in the communication that:
1. The consumer is responsible for payment of any insurance deductible;
2. It is insurance fraud punishable as a felony of the third degree for a contractor to knowingly or willfully, and with intent to injure, defraud, or deceive, pay, waive, or rebate all or part of an insurance deductible applicable to payment to the contractor for repairs to a property covered by a property insurance policy; and
3. It is insurance fraud punishable as a felony of the third degree to intentionally file an insurance claim containing any false, incomplete, or misleading information.
Harvey V. Cohen, President
At Cohen Law Group, It’s About Justice!
It’s more than a slogan, it’s our firm’s mantra. We are zealous in protecting your rights. We offer 24-hour availability through our answering service. Call us today.
(850)318-7474
Members of SFPMA – https://sfpma.com/listing/cohen-law-group/
Tags: Condo and HOA, Insurance, Management News, Members Articles
The State of Florida is no stranger to hurricanes and other natural disasters.Living in paradise doesn’t come without some risks associated with Mother Nature. The question is never just if our communities, homes and families will be impacted by a windstorm event, but when they will, and how we will prepare for and recover from that event.
In addition to our in-house legal services, Becker owns and operates Association Adjusting, a licensed and insured public adjusting firm led by Joseph “Joe Connelly (#E157037). Mr. Connelly has served as Executive Board Officer for the Florida Association of Public Adjusters (FAPIA).
Recognized as an authority in the community association industry, Association Adjusting has the expertise and experience to help community associations achieve the most favorable outcome possible. Our team of public adjusters, led by Mr. Connelly, provides clients with only the highest level of professionalism and excellence – whether you’re dealing with a claim that stems from hurricane damage, water damage, theft, fire, mold, roof leak, or any other type of calamity, our singular goal is to ensure your interests are always protected.
The first step toward developing and implementing a disaster plan is identifying the potential consequences of a disaster. The second step is to develop and implement a plan to mitigate the impact of a disaster to the fullest extent possible.
Federal Emergency Management Agency for federal disaster response and recovery information
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for information about federal flood insurance
Information about Flood Insurance
Flood Resources: National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
Contact Information: Phone: 1-888-FLOOD29 or 1-888-356-6329
Filing a Flood Insurance Claim
Premium Discounts for Hurricane Loss Mitigation
Notice of Premium Discounts for Hurricane Loss Mitigation
Uniform Mitigation Verification Inspection Form
Are you prepared for Hurricane Season?
Preparing for Natural Disasters, and Recovering from them
Disaster Preparedness at Home: Filter Out the Damage
Disaster Prep & Self Storage – What You Need to Know
Emergency Preparedness for People Requiring Special Assistance
Humane Society – Protect Your Pets
Becker provides access to information on this website page as a public service. Although reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all electronic information made available is current, complete and accurate, Becker does not warrant or represent that this information is current, complete and accurate. All information is subject to change on a regular basis, without notice. Becker assumes no responsibility for any errors in the information provided, nor assumes any liability for any damages incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of any of the contents of the website page. The inclusion of, or linking to, other website URLs does not imply our endorsement of, nor responsibility for, those web sites, but has been done as a convenience to our website visitors.
Tags: Condo and HOA, Condo and HOA Insurance, Damage Restoration, Law and Legal, Management News, Member Highlights
By Eric Glazer, Esq.
Board members I’m telling you now……..be careful. I’m seeing it already. Unit owners are starting to freak out over the passage of huge assessments to cover the costs of mandatory inspections, mandatory repairs and massive increases in insurance rates.
As we know, we’re not talking about pesky increases to the monthly cost of living in your home. We are talking about increases that will cause many to no longer be able to afford to live in their home at all. We are talking about increases that will force people to sell and no longer live in the condominium that they have lived in for perhaps decades.
Notwithstanding the fact that none of these increases are the result of anything the Board members did or didn’t do, board members know who is likely to be blamed for this financial disaster many unit owners find themselves in ——the Board members. So what else is new?
Board members are used to being blamed when things go wrong even though it’s not their fault. That comes with the territory. They get yelled and screamed at, the meeting ends and then it’s usually over. Maybe there’s some nasty e-mail that float around the community. This time it’s different.
Even if unit owners come to the realization and accept that they can’t afford to live in the condo any longer, the question is….so where can they go? Every condo seems to be in the same shape. Or if owners choose to move to a place that’s simply newer and not yet required to perform these inspections and repairs, you can bet they cost a lot more money than where they currently live. There’s simply no place to turn to.
When there is desperation and fear, people become irrational and often times violent and that is why I honestly fear for the safety of condominium board members throughout the state. This is not a knock on the millions of law abiding condominium owners throughout the state. They were thrown into this position because The Florida Legislature failed all of you. Instead of always requiring condominium owners to put away money for a rainy day, The Florida Legislature cow-towed to the whims of developers, law firms and other special interest groups who always lobbied against mandatory reserves. The only reason why mandatory reserves are now required is because 98 innocent men, women and children died at The Champlain Towers in Surfside as a result of not having nearly enough money on hand to make obviously needed structural repairs in their condominium.
So Board members……….you didn’t volunteer in your community to get punched out or worse at your board meetings. My advice is….when you know you’re about to pass a special assessment at a meeting, and at that meeting people are going to be going crazy……protect yourselves. Make sure there are police or at least security at the meeting. Better be safe than sorry.
WE WILL TAKE YOUR CALLS AND ANSWER YOUR CONDO AND HOA QUESTIONS THROUGHOUT THE HOUR. CALL US AT 877-850-8585 DURING THE SHOW.
Tags: Board of Directors, Condo and HOA, Management NewsMake primary, SFPMA Members News
State of Florida Property Management Association; On our Website you can find on our Licensing Course Partners the Licensing Courses are offered to you to become a CAM Manager in the State of Florida!
1. Must a Florida property management company have a real estate broker’s license
YES. Key components of property management (renting and leasing) are considered a real estate activity under existing Florida real estate licensing laws. A property manager needs a brokers license if he or she is paid by commission, and is handling rentals and leases for others.
No license is required for managing personally owned properties. There is a “Property Manager” license or certificate you should have. Also, certain rental properties need a license through the Div. of Hotels and Restaurants.
2. Are there any exceptions to the requirement that a Florida property manager have a broker’s license?
YES. For example, if a property owner employs someone to manage their property, and that “employee is paid a salary”, as opposed to being paid a commission or on a transactional basis, a broker’s license is not required.
For more information about these and other Florida property management requirements and exceptions, please contact the Florida Real Estate Commission.
Before hiring a property manager to manage your Florida rental property, you should always check that he or she is licensed appropriately. You can check the license status of Florida property managers at the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Licensee Search webpage.
3. Must Florida community association managers have a real estate broker’s license?
No. However, a Community Association Manager license is required if someone receives compensation for providing management services for the following types of associations:
4. Florida Real Estate Broker License Requirements
Florida real estate broker licensing requirements include:
5. Florida Real Estate Salesperson License Requirements
Florida real estate salesperson licensing requirements include:
6. Florida Community Association Manager License Requirements
Florida community association manager licensing requirements include:
With over 15 years of experience, we provide the best professional continuing education in Florida.
More Community Association Managers have gone through Florida’s license training courses than with any other offered, Whether you are looking for a classroom experience or an online courses, we make sure you are prepared for the exam and success. Our Partners with CAM Pre-licensing and CAM courses, have experienced a 100% passing rate when the course and reviews are completed before the exam.
Long after you have completed your exam, we are behind you with the best continuing education courses in the business.
SFPMA has our Calendar of upcoming events: Each month you will find the top events given by Law Firms, Educators, Service and a great team of Marketing Companies. Find courses for boards, managers, owners and investors. You can also take advantage of our You Tube and Radio Shows by some of the All Stars in out education by: Kay Bender Rembaum, and Condo Craze and HOA’s.
How long has the company been in operation?
The rule of thumb is to look for five years or more experience, but this must be weighed against all the other criteria as there are subpar veterans and excellent startups in many markets. Also, beware of a company that has changed its name to avoid bad past.
Community Association Managers who focus on one property type and/or don’t provide realty services pride themselves on this point. There are definitely benefits to working with a company that has a single focus and specialization, but there are plenty of competent community association management companies who provide realty service and/or manage multiple property types. The main thing to look out for is people who decide to become property managers overnight even though they are unqualified. Although this applies to people from all backgrounds, its worth noting that when the real estate market slows down a good number of realtors moonlight as property managers, some of whom lack the proper licensing and or skills required.
How knowledgeable are they?
If they appear to not have the time to answer your questions in the interview process, move on. They either genuinely don’t have time for their clients, or this is a front to mask their lack of knowledge. Try offering them some hypothetical scenarios to see if they offer you solid answers or dance around the question. Quick, clear answers mean there are well laid out processes in place rather than a fly-by-the-seat-of-their-pants, more reactive mentality.
Are they licensed to practice property management?
This is a very important point as it is a serious problem when anyone tries to practice property management without being a licensed Community Association Manager and educated in the field. The fact that your community association management company is licensed means they are subject to the ethics and guidelines established by their states governing authority. If they don’t have a broker’s license, they either will likely be operating under another broker’s license or are in a state that does not require a broker’s license. Either way it’s worth checking the laws in your state and verifying things to make you don’t hire a company that is practicing property management illegally. Also make sure to find out if they have a current errors and omissions insurance policy.
What certifications does the CAM company and its employees have? Do they participate in continuing education?
This is a good indicator of how seriously the company takes their work. You want to look for companies that nurture their employees professional development by encouraging (or even better requiring) them to attend graduate level courses and seminars. Professional certifications mean the recipient has invested considerable time and money acquiring the skills required to be an expert in their field. Here are some trade organizations and the designations they provide:
Does the management team dress and act professionally?
First impressions matter. The companies you interview are likely on their best behavior during the interview process so if they don’t look and behave professionally then, don’t expect things to improve. Consider that this person will represent you when dealing with current and potential future tenants; if you don’t find them agreeable what are the odds your tenants will? It’s also a good idea to get a look at their offices as this will provide yet another window into what kind of property conditions they find acceptable.
How many types of properties do they manage? Do they have a specialty?
Generally speaking it is a good thing if they focus on specializing in one area. How many properties are they currently managing? Is the company trying to grow, hold or slim their portfolio? This question is closely related to size which is covered in the next article.
Do they manage properties locally, regionally, or nationally?
The conventional wisdom is that a local only is best because is allows for a more singular focus as well as increases managements attention and ability to meet your needs as well as your access to decision makers in the company. That said, this can be an over generalization easily out weighed by any number of the other factors covered in this hiring guide.
Do they manage any section 8 properties?
These kinds of properties come with their unique challenges and require specific knowledge to manage. If you own, or think you may consider purchasing section 8 properties in the future you are best looking for a company that has experience in this area.
Ask for the addresses of some of their properties so you can do a drive by and if possible get a walk through.
Bear in mind they will select properties that reflect well on them, if you really want to go the extra step you can hunt down one of their other properties by locating some of their listings on there websites. Either way, if you get the opportunity to talk to tenants & owners try to assess their level of satisfaction with the Community Association Management Company.
Where is their office located? How far is it from your rental property?
The farther away they are the more likely the level of attention your property receives will suffer. A maximum of a twenty five minute drive is a good rule of thumb. or Find out of they have managers at each property some companies have offices in each building they manage, or an agreement with the building owner placing an apt set as a office.
IMPORTANT: This information is intended for informational purposes only and under no circumstances should it be considered legal advice or relied upon without first confirming its contents with your state real estate commission. Laws are updated frequently, and this information may not reflect the current law in your state. To confirm the specific requirements for each state, please contact your state real estate commission.
As you become a CAM Manager and start your business, You will need the Forms to help you, Leases, Letters to Tenants, Legal Documents and much more……..
Just some of the essential forms to assist you in leasing your premises, complying with legal requirements, and keeping relations with your tenants amicable. Forms include the 1. Landlord Tenant Closing Statement to Reconcile Security Deposit, 2. Residential Rental Lease Application, 3. Residential Rental Lease Agreement, 4. Commercial Building or Space Lease, 5. Security Deposit Agreement and other forms.
SUBSCRIBE TODAY TO OUR FORM PACKAGE
Tags: Condo and HOA, Condo and HOA Board of Directors, Education & Licensing, Finding a Property Manager, Management News
We guarantee, by written contract, that your Association will NEVER receive an invoice for Costs or Legal Fees advanced and/or incurred by our Law Firm in providing delinquent account collection services under our “COLLECT 4 FREE” Delinquent Account Collection Option.
Contact us today, and let us show you how you can immediately reduce the potential future monetary shortfall in your Association’s budget resulting from owner delinquency, as well as ensure a healthy financial future for your Community…
COLLECT 4 FREE!Katzman Chandler’s “COLLECT 4 FREE” Delinquent Account Collection Option is a truly unique program that guarantees, in writing, that your Association will NEVER receive an invoice for Costs or Legal Fees incurred by our Law Firm in providing delinquent account collection services.
Katzman Chandler’s “COLLECT 4 FREE” Delinquent Account Collection Option promotes efficiency in your Association’s operations by allowing your Community to timely and effectively pursue delinquent accounts and quickly collect delinquent assessments owed, rather than unnecessarily carrying delinquent owner debt on the Association’s books for extended periods of time.
Katzman Chandler’s “COLLECT 4 FREE” Delinquent Account Collection Option provides your Community with the ability to pursue delinquent accounts while avoiding the potential Risk, Liability and/or Financial Exposure to your Association for the payment of Costs and Legal Fees traditionally associated with Community Association Collection and Foreclosure actions.
Engaging Katzman Chandler and electing to take advantage of our “COLLECT 4 FREE” Delinquent Account Collection Option makes complete financial sense for nearly all qualifying Community Associations, including yours. Most Associations qualify. Call us today to confirm that yours does!
We are so confident in our ability to successfully collect upon your newly delinquent accounts, that we are willing to shift the ultimate financial responsibility for the Costs and Legal Fees incurred in the process from your Community to our Law Firm.
Our confidence in this regard comes from our depth of experience in not only handling delinquent account collection, but forecasting trends in delinquent account collection.
Katzman Chandler’s attorneys and staff have successfully resolved tens of thousands of delinquent assessment accounts on behalf of Community Associations over the past two decades, and welcome the opportunity to collect your Community’s delinquent accounts as well – with COLLECT 4 FREE!
If you are a new addition to the Katzman Chandler family of clients, and have delinquent accounts in collection with your prior attorney, Katzman Chandler can take over your Association’s existing/aged collection files and pursue them under a full advancement of Costs and Legal Fees option.
In addition to the obvious benefits of our “COLLECT 4 FREE”, we offer robust online status reports available 24/7, paperless communications sent automatically via email and an owner website portal to facilitate communication, expedite payoffs and obtain quick settlements of delinquent accounts.
Contact us today:
by clicking the following link: https://bit.ly/3ZHoWOY
Tags: Condo and HOA, Management News, Members Articles
The United States federal government has financial incentives for municipalities which implement flood preparation systems, but the policies must be in line with FEMA guidelines. Towns with programs in place for flood management also can provide incentives to individuals to get reduced flood insurance rates. Many community governments already have programs in place, but these plans and programs must be updated, reviewed and enforced to match FEMA’s updates.
Your community may not be able to prevent floods, but with proper preparation and a plan your condo and hoa can be prepared for any problems. Accurate weather information is paramount to flood preparation. Your emergency management crews and first responders may benefit from weather tracking systems that send out alerts by email, text, and push notifications to keep everyone up-to-date with accurate information. During an ongoing severe weather event, you may need to call on professional for support. A flood might be an overwhelming occurrence, but you can do a lot in advance to keep your community safe.
FEMA has a great brochure that outlines steps each family should take before flood season to stay safe during flooding. This brochure also offers property management ideas for individuals. Every home should know their flood risk and know how to stay informed about flood information.
Establish a chain of command for management operations. In high-risk areas, it’s a good idea to practice for emergency operations before a real flood occurs. Maintain infrastructure that presents flood risks. As required by the State of Florida Your greatest asset can be your community website! Let all of your community owners know to keep an eye out for flooding and have a way for them to inform you the Board and Management Company in the event of a problem.
Take care of small stream crossing or culverts where floods might be more common. Keep your Storm Drains and Pipes clear of debris, and make sure your drainage systems are working properly , and Please watch for changes in the course of water in the community and take action when necessary.
Roads and parking lots actually speed water flow, which can be quite dangerous. Make sure water can flow into drainage systems adequately without causing damage. Encourage residents to reduce runoff by implementing rain gardens or other green systems.
or at least comply with floodplain development standards. Check flood insurance rate maps before planning any development.
One key element of this plan can be is alerts to residents to the potential of heavy rainfall and damaging winds to allow them to prepare and get to safer ground.
To learn more about protecting your community from flooding and severe weather, contact us for more information about weather solutions from our members ready to help. We can set you up with a member company that matches the weather needs of your community and the goals of your Condo and HOA.
It is extremely important that a method be established as soon as possible after the loss, to resolve this aspect of the claim. Members, with its years of experience will assist you with these important decisions. Search our Directory for top companies Roofing, Adjusters, Law Firms /Storm Damage, Restoration Companies, and many more.
SFPMA – Members Directory ( http://Find-a-Service.com )
In order to properly adjust any claim for damage to a structure, it is important to prepare a detailed repair estimate. Sarasohn & Company will do that on your behalf. Whenever necessary, we will employ the services of architects, engineers, contractors and other independent experts at no additional cost to you.
Our qualified public adjusters are here to assist and direct you throughout the insurance claim process. We make sure that your claim is properly assessed and documented to obtain the maximum claim settlement you rightfully deserve.
below are a few of our members to call for flooding help in Florida.
Broward: Ph. 954.382.2099 | Dade: Ph. 305.267.3992
Brothers Backflow Specialists is state licensed and insured in the plumbing and gas industry. Our technicians specialize in plumbing, backflows, propane, natural gas, medical gas and water restoration including everything from installing gas lines, testing backflows and repairing broken plumbing pipes. We provide services for commercial, residential, industrial & farm properties from Monroe to West Palm Beach County as well as backflow services in Orlando, Florida. Brothers Backflow Specialists is here to serve you 24 hours a day / 7 days a week and no job is too big or too small.
561-602-8660 Pipe Inspection, Pipe Cleaning, Pipe Lining and Pipe Replacement Company
When PRS looks at a project we want to ensure we are putting the “right” solution to the problem at hand. Every project has its unique needs based on overall job scope, site conditions, project timeframes and difficulty level. At Pipe Restoration Solutions, we have found that when high-quality material and creativity comes together something special happens… Projects are completed with excellence and above expectation; Long term relationships are built; Problems are permanently solved.
(954) 210-4100 The elite in our industry “Exceptional Service, No Exceptions” We are dedicated to achieving and maintaining consistent innovation, integrity and unparalleled professionalism as well as customer service.
GreenTeam is an organization dedicated to providing the highest quality of service, to multiple vertical markets. The company performs Plumbing and Electrical services in South Florida. GreenTeam clients include but are not limited to: Class A Office buildings, healthcare facilities, educational facilities, Hotels and Resorts, Condo Associations, industrial warehouses, and residential. Our mission statement is simple, Exceptional Service, No Exceptions.
Our goal is to create products that solve the needs of our customers. We believe in designing high quality products that the homeowners, Building Engineers, and Facilities can rely on.
Glentronics Inc (manufacturer of Basement Watchdog and PHCC Pro Series Pumps) is a family run business and our goal is to take care of every customer just like they are family. Through innovation and dedication, we have led the way in Water Alarms, Battery Back Up Sump Pumps, AC Sump Pumps, Sewage Pumps and Combination Pumps.
Take the time to search for other companies like
ROOF REPAIR, LEGAL PROPERTY DAMAGE ATTORNEYS, AND ENGINEERS TO COME AND INSPECT YOUR BUILDINGS AND PROPERTIES
Property Maintenance is an integral part of managing the day to day operations for every type of property. First impressions are sometimes the only impression a potential tenant or owner has of a property. We pride ourselves on maintaining a Florida Directory of Companies that work with Property Management, Condo and HOA properties throughout the State of Florida.
Find-A-Service – Our Branded Page for our Members Directory on SFPMA. Search the Many Categories and Find Top Companies that work with Florida’s Property Management Industry
Tags: Building Maintenance, Condo and HOA, Condo and HOA Common Area Issues, Management News
Tropical Depression Fred is expected to hit Florida this weekend. Learn what you can do to protect your lake & pond from damage.
Tropical Depression Fred has changed paths and is projected to hit Florida and reach its tropical storm status by Friday, August 13, 2021, as it moves over the warm water in the Gulf. With this path, the storm may also have an impact on Alabama and Georgia. Experts say Florida can expect substantial rains over the weekend.
The heavy rain and winds that will accompany this storm can have a significant impact on your property, including recreational lakes, stormwater ponds, and trophy fisheries. In addition to ensuring your family and home are safe and protected, there are steps you can take to make sure your waterbodies are prepared. Learn what you can do to protect your aquatic assets as Fred approaches Florida, Alabama, and Georgia.
If your property is affected by the storm, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local lake and pond management professional for support.
Hurricanes and strong storms don’t just affect your day-to-day lives; they can have a significant impact on your lake or pond as well. If you live in an area susceptible to tropical storms, you know the drill. You stock up on food and water, make sure any tree branches that may fall are trimmed, board up windows or put up hurricane shutters if necessary, and secure light yard decorations and furniture. While your home and fridge may be prepared for the storm, is your lake or pond? How about your floating fountain, aeration system, fish feeder, or other related items?
For stormwater ponds, inflow and outflow pipes should be inspected and any debris that has accumulated in and around the pipes should be cleared to allow proper water flow. This is a crucial step in ensuring you do not end up with a flooded yard or parking lot. Any objects near the water should be tied down or taken inside, as they can blow around and end up in the water causing a blockage in a pipe or making removal difficult.
If your lake or pond has a floating fountain, simply turn it off before heavy wind and rains start. All the electrical and mechanical components will weather the storm, but as water levels rise, anchors may move or anchor lines may break, and the float can move around. Storms can also wash debris into the water which can clog the impeller. If you notice a decrease in pattern size or hear a funny sound when you turn your fountain back on, leave it off until the necessary repairs can be performed.
If you utilize a fish feeder around your pond, the primary threat is flooding. When heavy rain is expected, make sure to empty the feeder and drag it to higher ground. While wind is less of a concern during typical storms, hurricane-force winds can topple a feeder. If you are able to, it is beneficial to move it to a safer structure to weather the storm.
The better you can prepare for the impending storm, the less likely you are to experience severe damage to your property. Once the storm has passed and conditions are deemed safe, it’s important to check your water resource and identify any areas of concern. Your lake management professional can assist with any storm-related issues that arise within your waterbody.
In the face of a hurricane, proactive efforts will help keep your mind on the things that matter most – the well-being of your family and loved ones. Stay safe!
You’re now on the Board. Congratulations! And Thank You! You have now become a board member of your association. Serving on the board as a volunteer is important work and we want to be the first to let you know we appreciate your willingness.
Probably the most important thing to realize is that by becoming a board member you now have the awesome responsibility to think about the welfare of the entire association, distinct from the needs and desires of any single owner including yourself. This is not easy, but it is extremely important.
Being on the Board of Directors is important for a variety of reasons. Most importantly you will be able to make a positive and direct impact on the future direction of your community and hopefully a positive impact on the value of your investment and your home. As an increasing number of buyers are evaluating the features of living in a condominium there is more awareness of how value is created and maintained in a homeowner’s association. It is more than square footage and number of bedrooms in the living space. The value of your home is directly affected also by the quality of common area maintenance of the amenities, the enforcement of the rules and regulations, the adequacy of reserve funds, and the community spirit.
Every owner should serve on the Board of Directors at some time during their ownership. As they do they will gain a better understanding and appreciation for the role of the Board. We appreciate your willingness to serve on this board. We look forward to a very productive future together.
Since your prior Association Board made a decision to go with professional property management company they are there to help. You are partners together in managing the affairs of your association. They are able to provide guidance and direction on issues facing the association. The issues you face, for the most part, are not new to them.
SFPMA is here to support you as you volunteer for the association and offer you information making your job easier. Read Articles on our website learn and ask questions.
The “governing documents” are critically important. As a new Board member, you actually should find a copy and review them, if you haven’t already before now. You were likely given a copy when you purchased. The governing documents consist primarily of two types: the bylaws, and the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions, also known as “C.C. & R’s. Additionally, the following may be considered part of the governing documents may also include the Articles of Incorporation, and the Condominium Plan. But primarily you will mostly need to be familiar with the By-laws and the C.C. & R’s. These documents are not good bedtime reading unless you are wanting to fall asleep. While you should look at the entire documents, you should especially focus in the By-laws on the sections pertaining to the Board, and also the requirements pertaining to meetings. In the C.C. & R’s, the important sections will pertain to maintenance responsibility and financial management. However, we urge you to find the time with sufficient coffee to review the entire document.
Also, the other information that you may want to become familiar with is the Florida state law, Read the “Statutes 718 – CONDOMINIUMS” and “Statutes 720 HOMEOWNERS’ ASSOCIATIONS”. A great web-site, OnlineSunshine.com is an excellent resource.
Homeowner association boards that operate in effective and healthy ways for the benefit of their associations operate with every Board member playing a distinct and active role relating to a specific area of responsibility. Each board member should be the point person on their given area of responsibility, so that there is no potential of confusion communicated to third parties, such as the management company or other association vendors.
Generally those positions are: President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Director-at-Large. These are typical board positions for a five member board which is most common.
Some by-laws provide for a three member board, in which case some roles have to combine into one. Read the Governing Documents and the Bi-Laws for your Community.
• Facilitates the process of each Board finding their specific role on the board.
• Allows the other Board members to fulfill their role.
• Sets time/place for meetings and Chairs the board meetings and annual meeting.
• Prepares the Board meeting agenda
• Leads the Board with the same voting power as any other board member.
May represent the association or board to third parties, such as the management company. In those cases, the President should always seek to speak for the majority of the Board, not just his or her own thoughts on an issue.
The President may NOT unilaterally speak for the board, but must always be the “voice” of the board.
Qualities that would be helpful for the President: manager, leader, able to delegate, speaks well, organizer.
Assumes the duties of President as needed when the President is unavailable. Available for special tasks as needed, such as architectural issues, internal dispute resolution, community building efforts, or landscaping.
Maintenance Liaison. A Maintenance Liaison would coordinate with the management company representative on issues that may require board interaction between meetings. This person could speak for the board on maintenance issues between meetings. This may mean that this board member would need to poll board members on a particular decision that could not wait until a meeting can occur.
Qualities that would be helpful for the Vice- President: same as President, willingness to learn and grow into the role of President manager, leader, able to delegate, speaks well, organizer.
• Records the minutes of all meetings, prepares them for approval by the Board, and arranges for distribution to the owners and the Association Manager.
• Prepares the Notice of the meeting and Agenda and posts it on the property, so that owners are aware of the meeting and have an opportunity to attend.
• Maintains a record of all previous minutes in a “Minutes” book
Qualities that would be helpful for the Secretary: comfortable on a computer and word programs, able to prepare notices and minutes for distribution. Short hand is not required.
• Primarily responsible for the financial affairs of the association.
• Receives and reviews weekly payables, signs checks and mails to vendors.
• Receive the reconciliation’s and copy of reserve statements as they are processed.
• Responsible to safely invest the reserve funds according to the direction of the board, and transfer to the operating account funds as they are needed for reserve projects.
• Reviews monthly financial reports
• The link between the Board and the management company on financial issues
• Coordinates transfers into and out of the reserve account.
• Need to be aware of and understand the reserve study.
Qualities that would be helpful for the Treasurer: able to read and understand basic financial concepts. It is possible to be overqualified for this role for some people who have been involved professional in high level accounting positions as a CFO or controller. Association finances are fairly basic and involve a great deal of common sense. A person who balances their own checkbook is likely able to learn what is necessary.
The Member-at-Large – available for special projects, subject to the direction of the President. The director-at-large may serve as the maintenance liaison.
Member– At-Large: Same as Vice President, perhaps with background or knowledge of maintenance would be helpful.
Bank Signature card. It will be necessary to sign a new signature card for your operating and reserve accounts. Contact your association manager who will set you up with one of the staff in the office who is trained on this process. At least four Board members should sign the bank card so there is back-up in the event someone is unavailable to sign the weekly checks. In addition, there are a couple of other forms to sign. These have to do with instructions regarding the possible need for filing of liens, as required by the law firm handling liens, and another form regarding owners having the ability to pay their dues by automatic debit
Meetings – determine the best time and place to meet. Normally meetings occur at the home of one of the Board members or in a recreation room if one exists. Notify your manager of the dates of your meeting (i.e. third Wednesday) so that we can be sure to have your management reports to you before your meeting. Most associations meet monthly. However, if your By-laws permit, and you do not have many issues pending, you may be able to meet less often.
The President should also designate a board member to communicate directly with your manager just after board meetings. Your association manager may or may not be contracted to attend your Board meetings. If it is in your contract to attend, they should certainly will do so. The issue of whether they attend meetings or not can be altered by mutual agreement if the Board deems it necessary.
If you need a manager at a specific meeting, and if they are not contracted for evening meetings, some contract may allow them to charge per hour and this is paid directly to the manager to help compensate for them working a very long day. We would respectfully ask that you allow the manager to present their report and handle questions as early in the meeting as possible and then in some cases, be excused.
We have worked with great boards for many years, and we have worked with Boards who had great difficulty in leading their associations. Here is what we have observed in working with great boards:
The directors listen to others perspective, respecting those on the Board or the association with different opinions. The best decisions are made after a lively discussion of all the issues and concerns. Decisions made, even though not unanimous, become THE decision of the Board. Minority members accept the decision of the majority.
No single board member controls or dominates the Board or association. Board discussion is balanced with all members contributing. Board members with dissenting opinion are encouraged. The President leads, but should not dominate.
There are no decisions or actions outside of Board meeting, unless the President is required to take emergency action, in which case it is reported to the other members as soon as possible.
Board members do no not directly undertake tasks/jobs, that are more suitably handled by a designated professional….. CPA, attorney, consultant. Outside counsel is sought and followed from Management Company, attorney and other consultants as needed.
Decisions are made for the best interests of the entire association.
Board members understand that they are “serving” their members, not acting as managers.
The job of the board is to establish policies and review the work done by others.
The Board utilizes professional and competent vendors and they have reasonable expectations of their vendors.
Board members realize that they are Board members at Board meetings, or while conducting board business outside of a meeting, and homeowners the rest of the time. After all, this is your home too.
Board meetings are regularly scheduled, with proper notice to owners, to which Board members are prepared in advance with material read, and arrive ready to make decisions.
Minutes are taken that reflect the decisions made and distributed to owners in a timely fashion.
On the awarding of maintenance jobs cost is not the primary issue, rather a concern for the long term effectiveness. In other words, value, is more important than cost. Also, vendors are paid promptly upon satisfactory completion.
In the association there is a great community spirit. Owners voices are given consideration, and there is healthy dialogue when needed on important issues. Communication with owners is viewed as important.
Conflicts of interest: in a homeowners association the potential for this can occur frequently. Examples of this include relationships with association vendors, having work done on a portion of the common area that would benefit a board member and avoiding the same kind of work elsewhere, keeping the assessments low, at the expense of necessary repairs or reserve funding, so that a unit can be sold in the near future, are all examples of conflicts of interest. Be aware of them, and avoid even the hint of a conflict of interest.
Tags: Condo and HOA, Condo and HOA Board of Directors
I was recently watching an interview of a black belt in karate. In addition he was built like The Hulk. He started to say what he does when someone curses him out and even challenges him to a fight. I was certainly expecting him to describe how he turns others into rubble. On the contrary, he said that whenever he finds himself in that position, instead of fighting back, he simply walks away. To say I was originally surprised is an understatement. I mean this guy could pulverize any opponent. Instead, he chooses to just walk away.
He spelled out why. If he beats someone up he faces both criminal and civil charges. And for what? Because some dope said a few nasty words about him? Much better to just walk away from any situation that allows for it. Wow, I was impressed by this guy’s brain, not just his muscle.
It got me to thinking about my career in condominium and HOA law. How much time in my life did I spend hearing board members and unit owners verbally go at each other. How much time in my life did I spend hearing unit or homeowners argue with other unit or homeowners? It’s ridiculous.
In none of these arguments was anything accomplished whatsoever. They were all a waste of time for those arguing and everyone who unfortunately had to listen to the nonsense. I’ve seen physical fights break out and even walkers and canes fly through the air. And for what? What was accomplished? Nothing.
So, board members, unit owners, home owners and even managers, I’m talking to you. Next time someone is looking for a fight, do what the karate guy does, walk away. It will probably drive the other person crazy.
Tags: Board of Directors, Condo and HOA
As repairs come up due to Florida Storms or Projects at your Properties, You need to make sure your permits are handled by a Trusted Company.
Permits will be pulled for the repairs. All work will be followed up by the engineer to assure compliance. Aruba Permit Services is licensed and insured.
Aruba Construction who has been a Certified General Contractor since 1990 and has qualified Engineers available to handle inspections of any size building.
These inspections are for the conditions of the building that include:
· Masonry Walls (concrete condition, exposed rebar, spalling)
· Floors and Roof Systems (drains, scuppers, supports for A/C)
· Steel Framing (corrosion, fireproofing)
· Concrete Framing (cracks, exposed rebar)
· Windows (general condition, seals, anchorage)
· Wood Framing (connector condition, rotting, bearing deficiencies)
· Exterior Finishes (stucco, soffit, veneer deficiencies)
· Electrical (panels, wiring, breakers)
Phone: (954) 786-7292
Email: info@aruba-services.com
Address: 1413 S. Powerline Road, Pompano Beach, FL 33069
Industry Members of SFPMA < View our membership page
Tags: Condo and HOA, Inspection Articles, Management News, Member Highlights
SFPMA works throughout the State of Florida, we are a multi-member organization for the Condo, HOA and Property Management industry. Through knowledge based Articles, Events and our Members Directory, Clients find the right information to make an informed decisions for their Florida properties.