Florida Condo and HOA Disputes for Seasonal Owners

Since the 2021 Surfside collapse, Florida has overhauled its condominium laws. Many associations now face mandatory inspections, large reserve requirements, and special assessments, and seasonal owners often learn about major decisions after they have been made. Muggeo & Associates helps New England snowbirds protect their rights in Florida condominium and HOA matters.

Florida’s Post-Surfside Condominium Laws

Milestone inspections for condominium and cooperative buildings three or more habitable stories tall, beginning at 30 years and repeating every ten years.
Structural integrity reserve studies (SIRS) for covered buildings, with required funding of structural reserves and limited ability to waive it.
2025 updates (HB 913) adjusted reserve funding options, allowed board meetings by video with recording requirements, expanded online posting of documents, and added director education requirements.

These rules change frequently. Review your association’s most recent inspection report, reserve study, and budget, and get advice before voting on or challenging a major assessment.

Disputes We Help With

Special assessments for structural repairs and reserves
Budget, reserve, and insurance cost disputes
Records requests and access to inspection reports
Assessment liens, collection letters, and foreclosure threats
Rental restrictions, leasing approvals, and guest rules
Water intrusion, leaks, and repair responsibility between owner and association
Board elections, meeting notice, and voting disputes
Contractor and construction defect claims

Tips for Seasonal Owners

Update your mailing and email address with the association so you receive notices up north.
Opt in to electronic notice and video meetings where available.
Request the latest milestone inspection, SIRS, and budget each year.
Respond in writing to any collection or violation letter, and keep copies.
Keep a local contact or manager who can check the unit after storms.

Massachusetts Condominiums Too

Many of our snowbird clients also own condominiums in Massachusetts. We handle common charge disputes and liens under G.L. c. 183A; see Massachusetts Condominium Liens.

Muggeo & Associates has offices at 133 Washington Street, Salem, Massachusetts, and 160 SE 9th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Our attorneys are admitted in Massachusetts and Florida, as well as New Hampshire, New York, and Rhode Island, so one firm can follow your matter between your two homes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a milestone inspection?

Florida requires milestone structural inspections for condominium and cooperative buildings three or more habitable stories tall once they reach a certain age, with repeat inspections every ten years. Results must be shared with unit owners and can lead to required repairs and assessments.

What is a structural integrity reserve study?

A structural integrity reserve study, or SIRS, evaluates key building components and estimates the reserves needed to repair or replace them. Florida law requires associations of covered buildings to fund those reserves, with limited exceptions.

Can my association put a lien on my Florida unit for unpaid assessments?

Yes. Florida condominium associations have lien rights for unpaid assessments, interest, late fees, and collection costs, and can foreclose. Owners should respond promptly to any demand letter and understand their rights to dispute charges.

Can I see the association’s records?

Florida unit owners have statutory rights to inspect official records, and larger associations must post certain documents online. Records requests are often the first step in an assessment or budget dispute.

Can you help with my Massachusetts condo too?

Yes. We represent unit owners and associations in Massachusetts condominium matters, including common charges and liens under G.L. c. 183A.

Talk With Us in Massachusetts or Florida

If you have a Florida condominium or HOA dispute, call Muggeo & Associates at (978) 741-1177, text the same number, or request a consultation online. We answer calls 24/7 and can meet by phone or video wherever you are spending the season. Email: jared@ljmassoc.com.

This page provides general information, not legal advice. Laws in Massachusetts and Florida change, and every situation is different. Contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. Prior results do not guarantee future outcomes. Last reviewed November 2026.

Call or Text (978) 741-1177 to Schedule Your Consultation