April 2017 – The Condo and HOA Law Bulletin

Short Term Rentals

Does your Community Association have sufficient protections in place for Short-Term Vacation Rentals?

With the rise in short-term rentals through popular sites like Airbnb, Inc. and Vacation Rentals by Owner (VRBO), homeowners and condominium associations face new challenges in policing owners who violate restrictions against short-term leasing. This is especially true in Florida where many people seek out vacation rentals every year. Not only does this type of activity promote continuous violations of an association’s governing documents, but it presents privacy and security issues as well. Continue reading “Short Term Rentals”

The Role of the Community Association in Neighbor vs Neighbor Disputes

Neighbor vs neighbor disputes are frequently a part of life in community associations. Common examples may include an owner allowing his dog to use his neighbor’s yard or an owner dumping trash on his neighbor’s yard. Although they may initially be trivial, these neighbor vs neighbor disputes can escalate into bitter personal rivalries. While many community associations believe it is necessary to intervene in an attempt to ensure good relations between neighbors, an association should only take action in such disputes when doing so is clearly within the scope of the community association’s purpose. Continue reading “The Role of the Community Association in Neighbor vs Neighbor Disputes”

2017 Proposed Legislation Regarding Florida Statutes, Chapter 718

In recent legislation, Senate Bills 1258 and 1682 and House Bills 1001 and 1237 seek to amend Florida Statutes, Chapter 718.

Senate Bill 1258 and House Bill 1001 seek to fine directors who knowingly violate any Association bylaw or statutes.

Senate Bill 1682 and House Bill 1237 are more complex and seek, among other things, to: Continue reading “2017 Proposed Legislation Regarding Florida Statutes, Chapter 718”