If you live in Florida and your homeowners or condominium association doesn’t have a website, it’s time to consider getting one. Since 2019, condo associations with 150 or more units have been required by law to maintain a website that meets specific requirements. In 2024, further amendments lowered this threshold, and now condominiums with 25 or more units must have a website.
Why You Need a Website Now
Although not every homeowners association (HOA) is explicitly mentioned in the law, Senate Bill 398 does apply to both HOAs and condo associations. This bill outlines the types of information that must be posted on association websites, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all residents. Condominium associations with 25 to 149 units have until January 1, 2026, to comply with the new regulations.
If you’re uncertain about how to proceed, consulting a lawyer who specializes in community associations is a great place to start.
The Origins of the Requirement
The push for condo websites started in 2017 when Florida Governor Rick Scott signed House Bill 1237, which amended Chapter 718 of the Florida Statutes. This chapter governs condominiums in Florida, and the bill aimed to improve transparency and communication within condo associations. Many residents and owners had found it difficult to access important financial documents, rules, and other association records. The bill helps ensure that these documents are available online and easily accessible.
Do We Really Need a Website Right Now?
Yes, if your association has 25 or more units. Originally, associations with 150 or more units were expected to have a website by July 1, 2018, but this deadline was extended to January 1, 2019. Associations still without a website should act quickly to avoid noncompliance. Failing to meet these requirements can lead to fines, and board members could be removed by a quorum of unit owners.
Website Requirements for Associations
If your association has 25 or more units, your website must include:
• A secure, password-protected area accessible only by owners, employees, and managers.
• Important documents, such as the declaration of the condominium, bylaws, rules and regulations, and amendments, should be accessible in the password-protected section.
• Financial reports, budgets, and meeting agendas must be posted at least 14 days before any board meeting.
• Summaries of bids for services and contracts must remain available for at least a year.
It’s important to note that failing to post required information does not invalidate board decisions or actions. However, compliance is still crucial to avoid penalties.
Privacy Considerations
Any privileged or sensitive information should be redacted before documents are uploaded to the website. Keeping this information secure is essential to maintaining privacy and protecting the association from legal issues.
Already Have a Website? Here’s What to Check
If your association already has a website, make sure it complies with the updated legal requirements. Ensure the person responsible for uploading documents is aware of deadlines. If a third party manages your website, check your agreement to confirm who owns the website in case the contract ends.
What About Smaller Associations?
Associations with fewer than 25 units are not currently required to have a website, but future legislative changes could impose new requirements. It’s worth considering the costs and benefits of developing a website now, especially if you want to stay ahead of any future mandates.
Making Your Website Work for the Community
Having a website can offer a wide range of benefits beyond legal compliance. It can improve communication within the community, streamline payments, and increase participation in events. Features like community calendars, online payments, and public pages showcasing the association can make the website a valuable tool for both residents and potential buyers.
Conclusion
Florida condo associations with 25 or more units are now legally required to have a website that meets specific guidelines. While this may present an initial challenge, the long-term benefits of maintaining a website—improving communication, increasing transparency, and fostering community engagement—are well worth the effort. Make sure your association complies with the law and uses its website as a tool to strengthen your community.