Missed inspections could lead to penalties, increased costs, and compliance challenges for condo owners
A recent Sun Sentinel article includes an interview with John Cadden, who provides insights on how some Florida condominium associations failed to meet the December 31 deadline for mandatory structural inspections. These inspections, required under new safety laws following the Champlain Towers South collapse, are critical to ensuring aging buildings remain safe. While many associations submitted their reports on time, Palm Beach County officials reported that one-sixth of eligible buildings had yet to comply as of early February.
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The delays stem from multiple factors, including a lack of reserve funds, inspection scheduling difficulties, and misinformation. Some boards were advised to complete repairs before submitting reports, only to realize the extent of needed work and run out of time. “Every individual condo has a different reason for why they are doing what they’re doing,” explained Cadden. “But at the end of the day, it’s hard to understand why, if you knew you had a deadline, you didn’t meet it.”
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Moving forward, non-compliant associations could face fines, higher insurance costs, and difficulty securing loans. While Governor Ron DeSantis has acknowledged the financial burden on condo owners, state lawmakers have indicated that direct financial aid is unlikely. With limited relief options, condo boards must act quickly to avoid penalties and ensure compliance.
Read the Sun Sentinel article here
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