Florida’s “Condo 3.0” law, formally known as HB 1021, was enacted in 2024 to enhance condominium safety, accountability, and transparency. The law, which took effect in July 2024, introduces new requirements for board member education, building inspections, and record-keeping, among other measures. It was passed in response to the tragic collapse of the Champlain Towers South in Surfside.
Here’s a closer look at the key provisions of Condo 3.0:
- Enhanced Board Member Education
- New board members must complete a mandatory four-hour education program on managing a condo association.
- All directors are required to complete one hour of continuing education annually.
- Increased Transparency and Accountability
- Condominiums with 25 or more units must maintain an online webpage containing essential documents such as bylaws, budgets, and contractor information.
- Condo boards are prohibited from retaliating against unit owners by filing defamation lawsuits or increasing assessments.
- The Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) has been granted increased power and funding to enforce condo laws and investigate misconduct.
- Enhanced Safety and Building Inspections
- Condos that are three stories or taller must conduct structural inspections and maintain adequate reserves for necessary repairs.
- The Florida Building Commission is required to submit a report on its review of standards aimed at preventing water intrusion through sliding glass door tracks.
- Other Key Provisions
- Condo associations with more than 10 units must hold quarterly board meetings.
- Associations are required to establish structural reserve funds for major repairs.
- The law clarifies the definition of “condominium property” to include land, leaseholds, improvements, and associated rights.
- Disclosure requirements have been added for the creation of condominiums within portions of buildings or multi-parcel structures.