Homeowners Associations (HOAs) in Florida are private organizations governing residential communities to protect property values and community standards. HOAs are for maintaining shared areas (pools, parks, streets) and enforcing rules (landscaping, parking, pets) through elected boards funded by mandatory homeowner fees.
Florida HOA laws, primarily under Florida Statutes Chapter 720, govern homeowners' associations (HOAs) and covers a wide range of topics including association powers, member rights, board responsibilities, financial reporting, dispute resolution, and association records.
Well run HOAs are vital to maintaining and increasing property values and community connections. HOAs create a structured environment with rules to prevent eyesores and nuisance issues. When an HOA neglects its duties, property values decline and unsafe conditions and community deterioration follow.
COMMON HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION ISSUES IN FLORIDA
Common homeowners association (HOA) issues in Florida often stem from recurring disputes and management challenges. One frequent problem involves parking violations, such as unauthorized vehicles, recreational vehicles, commercial trucks, or general parking disorder within the community. These situations can lead to frustration among residents when rules are ignored or inconsistently enforced.
Another major concern is property maintenance failures. This includes overgrown lawns, poorly maintained common areas such as pools and landscaping, as well as ongoing pest problems and mold issues. When these areas are neglected, they can negatively impact property values and residents’ quality of life.
Architectural control disputes are also common within Florida HOAs. Homeowners often clash with boards over approvals related to sheds, fences, solar panels, paint colors, and even holiday decorations. These disagreements frequently arise from unclear guidelines or rigid enforcement of aesthetic standards.
Noise and nuisance complaints further contribute to HOA conflicts. Loud parties, excessive construction noise, disruptive pets, and other disturbances can strain neighbor relationships, especially when complaints are not addressed promptly or fairly.
A lack of communication and transparency from HOA boards is another significant issue. Problems arise when boards fail to share financial records, provide updates, or clearly explain decisions. This can lead to mistrust and dissatisfaction among homeowners.
Unfair or inconsistent rule enforcement is closely related and often exacerbates tensions. When rules are applied selectively or arbitrarily, homeowners may feel targeted or treated unequally, creating resentment within the community.
Short-term rental restrictions have become an increasingly contentious topic. Many Florida HOAs debate whether to ban or limit rentals such as Airbnb, balancing homeowners’ property rights against concerns about noise, security, and community stability.
Board mismanagement is a broader issue that underlies many HOA disputes. This can include misuse of association funds, failure to maintain community standards, or breaches of fiduciary duty owed to the homeowners.
In addition to these issues, HOA boards face ongoing challenges that can contribute to conflicts. Boards must balance the diverse interests of residents while managing finances responsibly, including dues, special assessments, and budgets. They must also remain compliant with Florida’s complex and evolving HOA laws, which can be difficult without proper guidance or experience.
HOAs are obligated to ensure all common areas are well maintained and safe. This means roads, landscaping, recreational facilities, and shared building components must meet the expectations of the community. When general neglect sets in, property values plummet.
If your HOA fails in its duties to repair common areas causing safety hazards and general unpleasantness, contact us today. At The Dempsey Law Firm, we are here to hold HOAs accountable and ensure maintenance obligations are upheld.