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SFPMA Industry Articles | news, legal updates, events & education! 

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

PENNY WISE POUND FOOLISH By Eric Glazer, Esq.

PENNY WISE POUND FOOLISH By Eric Glazer, Esq.

PENNY WISE POUND FOOLISH

By Eric Glazer, Esq.

In light of the new laws requiring mandatory inspections, mandatory repairs and mandatory reserve studies, some associations are looking to cut back and save money. 

That’s not a bad idea; unless you’re cutting back on your legal counsel reviewing all of the contracts provided to you by those engineers, architects or general contractors who perform any of these inspections or repairs.

I’m starting to see more of this and it’s an alarming trend.  It boggles my mind that an association would spend millions of dollars on a contract for repair of their property, but won’t spend a few hours on their attorney reviewing that contract first.  No question in my mind that the failure of the Board to have that contract reviewed by counsel before signing, is a breach of their fiduciary duty to the unit owners they represent.

I teach a class called “Before You Sign That Contract.”  It talks about so many ways in which the association can suffer financial loss by having the wrong clauses in the contract or by failing to insert certain clauses into the contract.  Once sentence can potentially cost the association hundreds of thousands of dollars.  And you chose to cheap out on a few hours of attorney’s time?  Really?

Even smaller contracts need to be reviewed.  If the association does not have the proper remedies in the contract for the contractor’s breach, the situation can turn into a long lasting nightmare where the association will never be made whole.  And…….the association will have to spend its own attorney’s fees now to correct the problem with no chance of recovering them later on.

We are about to enter into a historic time here in Florida where these types of contracts will be flying off the shelves. 

They will be everywhere, in every condominium.  Be careful.  If you didn’t hear me the first time, I said BE CAREFUL AND DON’T BE CHEAP.  GET LEGAL HELP BEFORE SIGNING.

DON’T COME TO ME AFTER YOU SIGNED A CONTRACT AND SAY “HEY ERIC…OUR ASSOCIATION SIGNED THIS MULTI MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACT.  CAN YOU NOW GET US OUT OF IT?

THE ANSWER IS OFTEN TIMES……NO I CANNOT.  YOU SHOULD HAVE ASKED ME TO LOOK AT IT BEFORE SIGNING IT.

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Have you heard about our “Collect 4 Free” Program? Find out how it protects and benefits your Community Association by Katzman Chandler

Have you heard about our “Collect 4 Free” Program? Find out how it protects and benefits your Community Association by Katzman Chandler

  • Posted: Apr 03, 2023
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Have you heard about our “Collect 4 Free” Program? Find out how it protects and benefits your Community Association

by Katzman Chandler

SAVE YOUR ASSOCIATION MONEY & ENSURE FINANCIAL STABILITY.

Katzman Chandler’s Collect 4 Free Program

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.

Why Collect 4 Free?

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:

Schedule a Complimentary Consultation

“WE WANT TO BE COMMITTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY”

by clicking the following link: https://bit.ly/3ZHoWOY

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The Start of the Fairy Tale: Creation of the Homeowner Assistance Fund by Axela-Tech

The Start of the Fairy Tale: Creation of the Homeowner Assistance Fund by Axela-Tech

The Start of the Fairy Tale: Creation of the Homeowner Assistance Fund 

by, Dee Rowe, CACM, Contributing Author

Once upon a time, benevolent Prince Sanders was afraid that people would lose their homes because they were unable to pay their mortgages or HOA fees. You see, a nasty respiratory disease was ravaging the kingdom and all surrounding kingdoms. Workers not deemed essential were forced out of work to limit the spread of the disease. The price of essential goods and services skyrocketed. Even once a “return to work” was announced, for many business owners and employees there was no work to return to. The kingdom was in crisis.

Since he was Chairman of the kingdom’s Senate Budget Committee, he and 11 others authored theAmerican Rescue Relief Act, which included a Homeowner Assistance Fund designed to keep those people from losing their homes and keep their public utility services active. The problem was, nobody told the homeowners, or those responsible for the communities they lived in.

Meanwhile, in a Far-Off Corner of the Kingdom

Mary was contrary, and could you blame her? She was a single mother with three small mouths to feed. Her ex-husband ran off with Sally years ago and now lived in a cottage by the sea selling seashells. That left Mary to care for the gardens ​of silver bells, cockleshells, and primroses all in a row. There was a time before the pandemic when her business thrived. Weddings were large, formal affairs, and nobody’s flowers were prettier than Mary’s. Brides paid a pretty penny for her services. But now weddings were smaller and more intimate. Because everybody’s budgets were stretched tight, brides cut expenses wherever they could. That included Mary’s flowers.

With the sun sinking on the horizon, Mary put the gardening tools in the shed and trudged into her small house. The children would be hungry, and someone had to feed them. Opening the nearly bare cupboard, she groaned. Once again, they would be eating beans and rice. As she measured the rice, her hand scraped the bottom of the barrel. Even beans and rice would soon be a luxury. Forcing a brave face, she served the children dinner and busied herself with chores while they ate. She ate their leftovers to make sure they got enough. Her stomach growled and grumbled, but she was used to ignoring that. She’d been doing so for a couple of years, ever since the virus started spreading.

Before she put the little ones to bed, she walked to the end of the driveway to get the day’s mail. Inside the mailbox was another notice from the HOA about her missed payments. Tears welled up in her eyes. How was she supposed to pay when there wasn’t enough to eat, and every penny went toward keeping the bank from taking her home? Now the association was threatening to take her home too. What would they do then? She wasn’t eligible for bankruptcy, because she’d had to file for one after her divorce.

Hands shaking, she placed the notice on the kitchen table and tucked her children into bed, noticing as she did so that all their nightclothes were threadbare and too small. Once she was back in the kitchen, she picked up the notice and read it again. “Due to the non-payment of assessments, your account has been referred to an outside agency for collections. Please contact them at once to avoid foreclosure.”

This time, tears did more than well up, they spilled down her cheeks and left spots on the table. With her head in her hands, she sobbed into the night until she fell asleep right there in the kitchen. Her dreams were troubled and chaotic, with visions of fire-breathing dragons scorching her home and beautiful gardens to the ground.

They Aren’t Dragons, They’re Heroes

The next morning, after the children ate their oatmeal and headed off to school, Mary called the collection company the HOA referred her case to. She braced herself for battle, recalling the fire-breathing dragons from last night’s anxiety-fueled dreams. Much to her surprise, that mental armor turned out to be unnecessary.

S​he spoke with a friendly and helpful representative from Axela Technologies, who was sympathetic when Mary described her financial position. The representative suggested that Mary try applying for something called the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) because an online map showed that her part of the kingdom may have funds available to cover the mortgage, utility costs, and even HOA fees since her hardship was caused by the pandemic and started after January 21, 2020. The helpful rep also arranged it so Mary would not lose her home while waiting for a decision from the HAF. She was so relieved she began to cry over the phone because she felt hope for the first time in years. “You’re my hero”, she told the Axela employee.

I​t Isn’t a Fairy Tale but a Well-Kept Secret

As she worked in her gardens that day, Mary wondered why she’d never heard of the HAF before. There were probably others like her; hardworking people who had no savings or credit to see them through when the pandemic shut the kingdom down. People who had spent the years since the return to work trying to find work or customers. People who were desperate to keep the homes that they loved and that kept their families safe and warm. Good people who wanted to pay their HOA fees but had to choose between that and feeding their children.

After waiting as patiently as she could, Mary got an answer from the HAF. Hands trembling, she opened it and read the decision over the phone to that helpful representative from Axela Technologies she had first spoken to. “Your application has been approved.” Once again, she was crying, this time tears of joy.

Later that day, Mary wrote a letter to the board of directors of the HOA thanking them for working with anethical company like Axela Technologies, and not a predatory collection service. That letter was the first communication the board received from her that wasn’t contrary.

For a real-life collection fairy tale like this, contact us at Axela Technologies today. We offer creative solutions, not threats and ultimatums.

 

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Flood Preparation & Finding the right companies is Key for your Properties

Flood Preparation & Finding the right companies is Key for your Properties

Flood Preparation is Key & Finding the Right Companies to help

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.

 

Floods can overwhelm communities in just a matter of minutes. By being proactive, your community can reduce flood risks. Here are six ways your town can be prepared:

1. Encourage residents to be prepared for a flood

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.

2. Have an emergency plan that outlines procedures for every department and agency during a flood

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.

3. Maintain infrastructure that presents flood risks

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.

4. Watch water flow during rainfall, especially on hard surfaces

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.

5. Discourage construction in flood hazard areas…

or at least comply with floodplain development standards. Check flood insurance rate maps before planning any development.

6. Develop a mitigation plan to take steps now to prepare for future floods

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.

 

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FIND PUBLIC ADJUSTERS FOR WATER DAMAGE CLAIMS FOR YOUR COMMUNITIES

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 ) 

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Sarasohn & Company –  Public Adjusters

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.

561-368-5000

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Stellar Public Adjusting Services

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.

305-710-7922

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You can also find out more on our Storm Damage Claims Pages for your properties

FIND PLUMBERS, PIPE REPAIR AND STORM DRAIN CLEANING AND REPAIR COMPANIES READY TO HELP!

below are a few of our members to call for flooding help in Florida.

BROTHERS BACKFLOW SPECIALISTS

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.

 

Pipe Restoration Solutions

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.

 

GreenTeam Service Corp

(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.

 

Glentronics – PHCC Pro Series Pumps

Call Jerry Morris at 800-991-0466 # 119

Glentronics is a manufacturer of several consumer products including sump pumps, battery backup sump pumps, water alarms and plant lights.

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.

 

It’s important to know when flood season occurs in your community so you can be prepared personally and civically.

Flooding is a serious event that can cause fatalities and serious injuries to people who are trapped or swept away by the high waters. Flooding can also:

  • Disrupt transportation routes
  • Disrupt utility services
  • Pollute drinking water supplies
  • Cause erosion, damaged roads, bridges, levees, and buildings
  • Create landslides or mudslides
  • Cause thousands of dollars of damage to homes

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

 

Find Members ready to help with Management, Business and Maintenance for your 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

 

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Protect Your Aquatic Assets From the Storm

Protect Your Aquatic Assets From the Storm

  • Posted: Apr 02, 2023
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  • Comments: Comments Off on Protect Your Aquatic Assets From the Storm

Protect Your Aquatic Assets From the Storm

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.

 

Protecting Your Aquatic Assets During Hurricane Season

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?

pond maintenance stormwater pond management regulatory compliance

Check Stormwater Inflow and Outflow Pipes

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.

Turn Off Floating Fountains

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.

Prevent Fish Feeder Damage

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!

 

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As a homeowner, it is important to know Common Property Damage Claims. by Joseph Maus

As a homeowner, it is important to know Common Property Damage Claims. by Joseph Maus

  • Posted: Apr 02, 2023
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Common Property Damage Claims. As a homeowner, it is important to know

A home or office building is the most important purchase most of us will make during our lifetime. Most of us buy insurance coverage – windstorm, liability, flood, homeowners, and business interruption – to protect our homes and businesses. Yet, today’s insurance policies are lengthy, complex contracts full of exceptions, exclusions, deductibles, and conditions that make the policy difficult to read, and sometimes even more difficult to recover from for your damage. When you call the Maus Law Firm, a top Fort Lauderdale property damage lawyer will handle property damage claims.

Disagreeing with Your Insurance Claim for Property Damage

You have four options if you disagree with the amount the insurance company is offering you for your damage:

Most insurance companies create entire TV marketing campaigns designed to say that you’re part of the insurance company’s “family”. However, the reality of the insurance business is that insurance companies exist to make money. That means that insurance company needs to minimize the amount of claims it pays out; meanwhile, maximizing the premiums that it collects.

When an insurance company doesn’t offer to pay you the full (or fair) amount of your property damage, you need to be prepared to fight. While many homeowners are hesitant to go to court – fearful of a lengthy or expensive legal battle against a big-name insurer – settling for less than your claim was worth can end up costing you more in the long-term. The repairs your home needed can continue to pile up, lowering the value of your property. Hiring the best Fort Lauderdale property damage lawyer you can find will save you the headache later.

The Process for Property Damage Claims & Florida Property Owner’s Obligations

When making insurance claims for property damage, it is helpful to know how the process typically unfolds. Our Fort Lauderdale property damage lawyer knows that while there are many potential scenarios, the property owner should first understand their own obligations under the insurance policy. Second, the property owner should understand the reasons for the insurance company’s denial of their claim.

Any property insurance policy will place some obligations on the property owner when they make a claim for property loss. These obligations will differ from policy to policy, but the following are several of the most common requirements.

  • Notice of Loss: The property owner is generally required to provide notice of the loss to the carrier promptly. The policy should provide a specific deadline. Failure to meet this deadline could result in the claim being barred.
  • Protect Against Further Damage: The property owner is also required to take reasonable steps to protect the property from further damage. For example, if the roof of a property is damaged by a hurricane, the property owner must attempt to place temporary covering to protect the interior. However, the exact conduct that is considered “reasonable steps” will often be subject to interpretation.
  • Proof of Loss: After making a claim, the property owner will need to submit a proof of loss statement. This statement is generally signed under penalty of perjury and itemizes the damages. A typical deadline for the proof of loss is 60 days after a request by the insurance carrier.

How a Fort Lauderdale Property Damage Lawyer Can Help You with Your Homeowner’s Insurance Claim

Unfortunately, even if you have paid your homeowners’ insurance premiums on time for decades, this does not guarantee that your insurance company will treat you fairly if you need to file a claim. Bad-faith insurance claim denials are common, and homeowners can run into various other issues with their property damage claims as well. As a result, if you need to file a homeowners’ insurance claim, it is a good idea to hire an attorney. Here are just a few examples of the ways an experienced Fort Lauderdale property damage lawyer like Joseph Maus can help:

1. Determining If Your Claim is Covered

Before you devote the time, energy and resources to pursuing a property damage claim, you first need to determine if your claim is covered. An experienced Fort Lauderdale property damage lawyer will be able to review your homeowners’ insurance policy and assess the damage to your home in order to determine if your insurance company is liable.

2. Dealing with Your Insurance Company On Your Behalf

If you have a claim, your attorney will be able to deal with your insurance company on your behalf until your claim has been fully and finally resolved. This important for a few different reasons: (i) Florida’s insurance laws are complicated, and asserting your legal rights can be difficult; (ii) in some cases, there will be a legitimate dispute as to whether a homeowners’ insurance policy applies; and, (iii) successfully pursuing a homeowners’ insurance claim for significant property damage takes time, and you will need someone to handle your claim while you focus on work and your day-to-day life.

3. Overcoming Bad-Faith Coverage Delays and Denials

As we mentioned above, insurance companies routinely deny policyholders’ property damage claims in bad faith. If your insurance company is not handling your claim appropriately, you may need your attorney to take legal action on your behalf. If you have a claim for insurance bad faith, then you can seek compensation above and beyond the amount of coverage to which you are entitled under your policy.

Common Claims for Property Damage in Fort Lauderdale

When can you file a property damage claim? As a homeowner, it is important to know when you are entitled to insurance coverage and when you may need to come out of pocket to cover repairs to your home. With this in mind, here are some examples of common property damage claims in Fort Lauderdale:

  • Storm Damage Claims – While homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover flood damage caused by hurricanes and tropical storms, they do cover other types of storm damage.
  • Tree Damage Claims – If a tree in your yard fell on your home, your homeowners’ insurance policy should provide coverage.
  • Water Damage Claims – Water damage caused by leaking pipes, HVAC system failures and other similar types of issues should be covered under your homeowners’ insurance policy.
  • Fire Damage Claims – Fires from lightning strikes and other causes are generally covered as well, and your policy should cover your home as well as its contents.
  • Mold Claims – Mold claims are often disputed; but, if your house has mold from a “covered peril,” then the costs of remediation should be covered.
  • Theft Claims – If your home has been burglarized, your homeowners’ insurance policy may provide coverage for any damage that occurred during the break-in in addition to the value of your stolen property.

Here are 6 common property damage claims;

#1 Storm Damage, #2 Tree Damage, #3 Water Damage., #4 Fire Damage, #5 Mold, #6 Theft.

Where do you turn to get help?

The Maus Law Firm has been successfully handling insurance-related claims since 1993. We will competently and aggressively represent you in your homeowner property damage insurance claim, or commercial business insurance claim.

Call 954-784-6310 or

visit our website now, for a free consultation.

SFPMA & Members are ready to Handle Storm Damage & Claims for Condo and HOA Properties!

Trusted Members are; Legal Firms, Public Adjusters, Roofing, Engineering & Restoration Service Companies that work with you on Solutions to Storm Related Damage.

This is a Division of SFPMA – http://FloridaAdjusting.com

 

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Hurricane Season is almost here! – Have you had your storm drains inspected yet?

Hurricane Season is almost here! – Have you had your storm drains inspected yet?

Hurricane Season is almost here!

Hurricane season runs from:

June 1, 2022 through November 30, 2022

Have you had your storm drains inspected yet?
During a hurricane or tropical storm, it’s common for an area to experience several inches of rainfall and catastrophic wind over a very short timeframe. All of that excess debris and sediment from a hurricane can cause blockages in our stormwater systems, hindering them from operating properly.
Hurricanes are uncontrollable, but what we can control is taking the proper precautions and steps to make sure our stormwater systems are ready for the upcoming season!
Contact us today at 954-382-9766 or info@allstatemanagement.com to talk to one of our Stormwater Specialists!

STORMWATER SYSTEMS –
PREVENTS FLOODING

Storm Drain Cleaning in Broward County and South Florida

Allstate Resource Management’s team of experts specializes in storm drain cleaning in Broward County and storm drain cleaning in South Florida. We will keep your stormwater systems and storm drains clean and operating properly and in compliance with government standards. Various government agencies in Florida have specific regulations regarding the maintenance of these complex systems. Non-compliance can result in fines and unnecessary expenses. We can help ensure that your stormwater systems are working effectively and comply with Florida’s regulation standards. Our team are experts at storm drain cleaning and will make sure your stormwater systems are working properly. Stormwater systems accomplish many vital functions. Their primary purpose is to prevent flooding by rapidly removing surface water. A properly functioning drainage system also helps to maintain water quality, capture pollutants and contributes to balancing Florida’s precious drinking water supply.

 

CONTACT US TODAY TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN HELP YOU!
CALL (954) 382-9766

CONTACT US

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The Seven Most Important Fitness Trends for the Year. by Commercial Fitness Equipment

The Seven Most Important Fitness Trends for the Year. by Commercial Fitness Equipment

The Seven Most Important Fitness Trends for the Year

by Commercial Fitness Equipment

Commercial Fitness Products

954-747-5128

Commercial Fitness Products, a Florida based organization, has been serving the fitness needs of our customers nationwide for over 27 years. Our primary focus is Multi-Housing & Hospitality, as such, we stay current on the latest industry trends, and are able to share ideas on how we may equip or improve any community fitness center. We provide more than just equipment…our goal is to delight your residents & guests by providing them an exceptional fitness environment.

CFP’s team of experienced professionals are eager to assist you with prompt & courteous customer service. If you have any plans to add, change or upgrade your fitness amenity, we welcome the opportunity to work hard to earn your business.

The Corona pandemic has shaken up the fitness industry. Instead of the motto “higher, faster, further”, the future will see more health orientation, holistic offers and specialization in particular clientele such as risk groups. We present the seven most important fitness trends for the year 2021.

Fitness studios in Germany are in the middle of their second shutdown in the Corona year 2020, which has complex consequences – on the one hand, many fitness center operators fear for their existence with a cumulative loss for the industry of 460 million euros per lockdown month. On the other hand, many users (forcibly) reorient themselves and discover app and video training at home.

“The uncertainty in the industry is great. Many studios will not survive if the lockdown lasts much longer,” says Ralph Scholz. The head of the German Industry Association for Fitness and Health (DIFG) hopes that the fitness studios will be able to open again in January 2021 – that’s when most new members usually sign up with the Christmas kilos on their ribs.

The pandemic will massively change the fitness economy. This makes it all the more important for all players to set the right course for the future. These are the most important fitness trends identified for the year 2021.

 

1) Gyms Have to Meet High Hygiene Standards

Many people stay in shape during the lockdown period with running, walking, fitness exercises on their own or free digital services. Of these, a proud number of 73 percent intend to maintain this alternative training in the future. Although most fitness enthusiasts want to go back to the gym in the future, they place the condition that training is not associated with the risk of corona infection.

“The survey has shown that many people are concerned about having the highest possible standard of protection. It must therefore be in the studios’ own interest to ensure exactly that,” says Ralph Scholz in the ISPO interview. So the basic condition for studio operators in 2021 is to win back the confidence of fitness fans.

Over one million of the 11.6 million members in Germany in 2019 have quit their membership so far.

 

2) Fitness: Online Apps are Gaining in Importance

In the era of closed fitness studios, most sports and fitness fans have turned to online offers. Apps such as Freeletics, which use artificial intelligence (AI) to compile individual training offers for users, are particularly popular. “The main benefits for users are access to training planning, monitoring and even motivation at a fraction of the current cost, which means that many more people can be reached than ever before,” says Simon Alger, Lead Data Scientist at Freeletics, in an interview with ISPO.

Another example of the new digital trend: With the so-called peloton bike – a spinning bike with which you can connect with spinning fans around the world via the Internet – you can do your cardio training, for example, in virtual competition with many like-minded people around the globe.

 

3) Outdoor is King

The topic of outdoor fitness is gaining in importance precisely because of Corona: intensive training in particular is much less dangerous outside than indoors because of the draught. Fitness studios should therefore move more and more equipment and activities outside. This creates more safety for the users.

 

4) More Health Orientation in Fitness Offers

The experience of a pandemic, which is unique for everyone, has brought the topic of health into focus for many people much more than before. In principle, this is good for the fitness industry. Fitness strengthens the immune system. In fact it also needs the right and safe offers to do so.

 

5) Differentiated and Target Group Oriented Training

Whether it’s in media use, buying behavior or travel: individualization is advancing in all areas of life. This also applies, of course, to the fitness wishes of the clientele. Whether Beer Yoga, fastest possible self-optimization through high intensity training or the new workout trend Glide Fit: differentiated and target group-oriented training is mandatory.

All-round fitness studios will continue to exist. Nevertheless boutique and micro studios with tailor-made offers are attracting more and more customers. In these difficult times, specialisation can also be financially attractive for fitness studios. Scholz: “The interesting thing is that the more special you are, the more money you can demand from customers.”

For corona risk groups and senior citizens, health and fitness are just as important as for the rest of the population. This makes seniors a core target group that must be wooed with special offers and training opportunities. This can range from individual training sessions or workouts in small training groups to special premises and digital offers for risk-free training at home.

 

6) Mindset: Connection of Body and Mind in Training

The trend towards topics such as yoga, mental training or Pilates already existed before Corona. But it has been intensified by the pandemic. More and more people want to combine physical training with mental relaxation.

This desire is triggered not only by job-related stress, also by the strenuous homeschooling with children or financial and health fears in connection with the pandemic. “We must therefore also strengthen the sport psychological level in our offers”, demands Ralph Scholz.

 

7) Sport and Fitness Merge

Rather go to the gym to train on workout devices or jog outside? For many fitness freaks this used to be a real question of faith. The Corona period, including the closure of the studios, has accelerated the resolution of this either/or situation. Many equipment fans move to alternative indoor and outdoor offers, apps included.

“In the perception of the end consumer, this belongs together, if only because of the many new apps and wearables. That is why it is also important to develop holistic offers. In a sense, the gym is the pilot in this process,” says Scholz.

 

reproduced by: https://www.ispo.com/en/trends/seven-most-important-fitness-trends-year-2021 sent to us by Commercial Fitness Equipment.

 

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Are your board meetings productive and efficient?

Are your board meetings productive and efficient?

  • Posted: Mar 08, 2023
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Board meetings should be productive, efficient meetings where the board conducts business. Stop and think about that for a minute. Are your meetings productive and efficient? Does the board meet to conduct business or socialize? Are you getting the most out of your meetings?

We’ve put together seven keys to a successful board meeting. Following these suggestions can bring new life to your association and keep volunteers interested in helping.

 

 

1.- Board meetings should not last more than one hour. Start the meeting when it is scheduled to begin and get straight to business. If you collectively have the focus to get done in an hour you’ll be amazed with how much you can accomplish. If you have no time limit, the meeting will typically drag on and a lot of time will be wasted.

When time is wasted at a meeting then people are less likely to volunteer because they feel their time is wasted. One hour meetings have a major impact on volunteers. Associations that hold focused, one hour meetings have more people volunteer. It’s also important to note that those volunteers stay active the in the community for much longer. Length of your board meetings may seem like a trivial matter, but it really does have a large impact on how the volunteers of the association view the organization and, in turn, how they view their role.

 

2.- Make your meetings action oriented. Don’t just discuss issues, make decisions. Every item up for discussion should end in a vote to move forward in some way or table the issue with a clear understanding of why the item is being tabled and when it will be revisited. When taking action on an item make sure it is clear who will be responsible for getting that task completed. Ambiguity cripples a board.

 

3.- Board Meetings are for the board. They are not neighborhood meetings or social gatherings. The purpose of a board meeting is to conduct business, not see how many people you can get to attend. Some board members try to get as many people to attend as possible. This is missing the point. Homeowners are, of course, welcome to attend but it is not a membership meeting. The purpose of the board meeting is for the board to consider the affairs of the association, make business decisions, and then have a clear plan of action.

 

4.- Take time prior to the meeting to think about what you want to discuss. Inform the community manager of this one week prior to the meeting. This way your topics of discussion can be placed on the agenda which will allow the other board members and the community manager the opportunity to think about and/or research the item you want to talk about. When you don’t come prepared and spring things on the other board members or on the community manager this typically results in a lot of unnecessary discussion with additional research needed in order to make any kind of decision. Remember, be action oriented. By planning ahead you can make more decisions at the meeting instead of causing an item to be discussed twice and delayed for months.

 

5.- There are an odd number of board positions for a reason. You will not always see eye to eye. Don’t take it personal if the other members of the board disagree with you. This will occur and is healthy. While each board member should attempt to come to a consensus with the other members, you will not be able to achieve this each time. Countless hours are wasted by board members continuing to argue a point just to obtain “victory” on a certain issue or to avoid any vote that is not unanimous. This occurs because someone is taking it personal. If your view is not shared on an issue, take a vote, and move on. Do not hold a grudge. Recognize that you can disagree and still work well with each other.

 

6.- If you think you may have a conflict of interest do not vote on that issue. Let’s say a board member’s spouse is on a committee. If the board is making a decision on an issue related to that committee then the board member with the spouse on that committee should excuse him/herself.

 

7.- Most associations should hold quarterly meetings (unless your bylaws require more). Meeting more often than that becomes excessive and unnecessary. Remember you want to have focused, short, productive meetings. This keeps people interested in serving on the board and on committees. If the association is constantly meeting then people feel it is taking too much of their time and they will stop volunteering. It is important to note that you are required to comply with the minimum meeting requirement in your bylaws. Most association bylaws require no more than quarterly meetings, but check yours to be sure.

 

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