Condo Repair Legal Obligations

Summary

Condo associations in Florida are legally required to maintain common areas, including elevators and pools, under the Florida Condominium Act (Chapter 718). If the board is unresponsive or plans to resign, you can request a special meeting to address the issues and potentially elect a new board. Document the damage, contact the association formally, and consider seeking legal advice or mediation to resolve the situation.

Full Conversation

I own a condo on the beach in Pinellas county Florida. During the hurricane the building I live in was damaged. The elevator no longer works and I am on the 5th floor. I'm also almost 80 years old. Also now the pool is unusable and they have no plans to fix the elevator or pool. I've had it up for sale for 6 months and now no one wants it with no elevator and pool. Is this legal for them not to fix the elevator?
Hello mz Pasco,
I'm sorry to hear about your situation.
- Florida law generally requires condo associations to maintain common areas, including elevators and pools.
- The Florida Condominium Act (Chapter *, Florida Statutes) mandates these repairs.
For specific assistance, you may consider contacting:
~Pinellas County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller
Phone: (*) *-*
Website: www.mypinellasclerk.org

Would you like more information on how to proceed?
Yes
Thank you for confirming, mz Pasco. Here are steps you can take:
*. **Document the Issue**: Take photos and keep records of the damaged areas and any correspondence with the condo association.
*. **Contact the Condo Association**: Send a formal request for repairs, referencing the Florida Condominium Act.
*. **Seek Legal Advice**: Consider consulting a local attorney specializing in condominium law for further assistance.
Would you like more information on finding a local attorney or details on how to file a formal complaint?
What does the statute * state
Hello mz Pasco,
Chapter * of the Florida Statutes is known as the "Florida Condominium Act." Here are some key points:
- **Common Element Maintenance**: It requires condo associations to maintain common elements (e.g., elevators, pools).
- **Board Responsibilities**: The condo board must ensure repairs are done.
- **Owner Rights**: Condo owners can demand necessary maintenance.
Would you like more detailed information on any specific section?
The board refuses to speak to me and is wanting to resign.
Hello mz Pasco,
It sounds like a challenging situation. If the board refuses to speak and plans to resign, you can take the following steps:
*. **Call a Special Meeting**: Request a special meeting of the condo association members to address the issue.
*. **Elect a New Board**: If the current board resigns, the members can elect a new board to handle the necessary repairs.
*. **Seek Mediation**: Consider mediation with the help of a local attorney to resolve the issues with the current board.
Would you like more information on how to request a special meeting or find mediation services?