Florida Legislature passes condo law on inspection, repairs

In a significant legislative move, Florida's lawmakers have passed a law that requires condominium boards to set aside reserve funds for future repairs, starting in 2025. This requirement was prompted by the tragic collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside, which highlighted the critical need for better building maintenance and safety protocols. Representative Danny Perez pointed out that many condo associations had previously opted to waive reserve funding to avoid immediate costs, putting residents at risk. The new law aims to change that by mandating regular reserve studies every ten years, ensuring that funds are available for necessary repairs. With over 2 million residents living in condominiums across Florida, the implications of this legislation are far-reaching.

The House approved the measure with a unanimous vote, signaling strong bipartisan support for enhanced safety standards. As the law heads to Governor Ron DeSantis for approval, it represents a proactive approach to preventing future tragedies. Ultimately, this legislation seeks to ensure that the structural integrity of Florida's aging condominiums is prioritized and maintained.