HOA Legislative Update: 2024 Year In Review

Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) are a big focus at the federal level and in state capitols across the United States. What happens in these legislatures can dramatically impact community associations everywhere. And today, more and more legislative proposals are influencing how HOAs operate and are governed.

HOA statutes, laws, and cases can affect your association and the rules that everyone in the community must follow. In 2024, Associa hosted several HOA legislation webinars to address new and updated HOA laws. Associa’s legal expert, John Krueger, vice president of government affairs, led the presentations, providing valuable insight into what the industry is currently facing. To watch and learn more about laws regarding homeowners’ associations, read on.

Corporate Transparency Act: Everything You Should Know

The Corporate Transparency Act is a new law enacted by Congress as part of the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2021. Administered by the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), the law aims to increase governmental awareness of who owns and operates businesses, including homeowners’ associations, in the United States. Part of an effort by Congress to help combat money laundering, financial fraud, and terrorism financing, this law is designed to prevent masking of ownership through shell companies or other legal means.

But, how are HOAs impacted? Why? In our Corporate Transparency Act webinar, we outline what the CTA is, when it took effect, how it affects you, and tips for ensuring your regulatory compliance.

Overview of Florida’s Statutory Changes to Community Management & the Homeowners' Association Act, Pt I

Florida’s Homeowners Association Act is a state law that governs HOAs. A homeowners’ association law that’s constantly changing, this webinar outlines the most recent updates to the act and details how these new developments may impact Florida’s managed communities. We discussed a variety of topics, including new HOA rules and covenants disclosure measures, community management changes, updated board member education requirements, and much more.

Overview of Florida’s Statutory Changes to the Homeowners' Association Act, Pt. II

Florida’s recently passed House Bill 1203 affects community associations in the Sunshine State. Impacting board members, operations, homeowner capabilities, and more, this webinar details important HOA regulations. Here’s what it covers:

·         New HOA board member requirements

·         Updated HOA website requirements

·         Changes to HOA financial reporting

·         HOA records retention and accessibility

·         HOA fines and suspensions

·         HOA voting fraud

·         Much more!

Overview of Florida’s Statutory Changes Impacting Condos

Florida’s House Bill 1021 includes regulatory changes specific to condominium associations. Crafted to enhance transparency and education requirements, this bill includes several high-level topics, including:

·         Mandatory condo board education requirements

·         Website requirements

·         Official association records

·         Structural integrity reserve study (SIRS)

·         Reserve funds

·         Annual financial reporting

·         Board meetings

·         Board retaliation

·         Much more!

Access to Association Records: Florida’s Legislative Changes & What You Need to Know

Get details on Florida’s House Bill 59, HB 1021, and HB 1203, which include regulatory changes that impact who can access association records and how. From financials to reserve studies, a community association has many official records to maintain. Security, accessibility, and transparency are paramount in managing a community’s documents. In this webinar, Krueger covers:

·         Required access to HOA rules and covenants

·         Official HOA records retention

·         Website requirements for HOAs and condo communities

·         Financial reporting

·         Requests for detailed accounting of amounts owed

·         Penalties for non-compliance

What Is the 2024 My Safe Florida Condominium Pilot Program?

The Florida Legislature recently passed House Bill 1029. Modeled after the My Safe Home Program, which was created in 2006, HB 1029, My Safe Condominium Pilot Program is part of the state’s Department of Financial Services. The program is designed to enhance inspections and grants to condominium associations.

According to our webinar, the legislature appropriated $30 million as an initial amount for this program, and condominiums within 15 miles of a coastline are eligible to participate.

In this webinar, you’ll find information on:

·         Association to-dos in applying for an inspection or grant under the program

·         Meeting and vote requirements

·         Hurricane mitigation inspections

·         Mitigation grants

·         Use of grants

·         Grant awards

·         DFS reporting requirements

·         Much more!

FAQs About HOAs & Politics

While the Corporate Transparency Act, Florida’s Homeowners Association Act, and Florida’s recently passed house bills are important laws regarding HOAs, another prevalent industry topic is political activity within the community. In our latest ebook, “FAQs: HOAs & Politics,” we share answers to some pressing questions, including can I display political signs on my HOA property? And what are the rules for hanging American flags in an HOA? Plus, we detail why your community should monitor HOA legislation activity and consider engaging in government affairs. Download it now to learn more!