Florida’s New Condo Law: Key Changes and What They Mean

In response to the tragic 2021 collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside, Florida has enacted significant reforms to condominium safety regulations. Governor Ron DeSantis signed House Bill 913 into law, introducing several key changes aimed at enhancing building safety, improving financial transparency, and providing greater flexibility for condominium associations (AP News)

🏗️ 1. Extended Deadlines for Structural Integrity Studies

Originally, condominium associations were required to complete structural integrity reserve studies by December 31, 2025. The new law extends this deadline by one year, providing associations with additional time to comply with the requirements. The new deadline is December 31, 2026. This extension aims to alleviate financial pressures on condo owners and associations while ensuring that necessary safety measures are implemented.

💰 2. Enhanced Financial Flexibility

To address concerns about rising costs associated with compliance, the law introduces measures to provide financial relief:

• Reserve Funding Flexibility: Associations can now fund reserve accounts through loans or lines of credit, offering more options to meet financial obligations (AP News).
• Temporary Pauses in Reserve Contributions: In cases of urgent repairs, associations are permitted to pause reserve contributions temporarily, allowing for immediate action without compromising long-term financial planning(AP News).

📚 3. Increased Transparency and Accountability

The new law emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability within condominium associations:

• Online Access to Records: Condominium associations are required to make certain records, such as financial statements and meeting minutes, accessible online to unit owners, promoting transparency and informed decision-making.
• Board Member Education: New educational requirements for board members aim to ensure that they are well-informed about their responsibilities and the legal framework governing condominium associations (Perez Mayoral, P.A.+2Florida Realtors+2Florida Politics+2).

🛡️ 4. Strengthened Safety Measures

Building upon previous legislation, the new law reinforces safety protocols:

• Milestone Inspections: Condominium buildings that are three stories or higher must undergo milestone inspections to assess structural integrity.
• Reserve Studies: Associations are required to conduct reserve studies to determine the amount of money that should be set aside for future major repairs and replacements.

🏛️ 5. Strengthened Enforcement

The law enhances the enforcement capabilities of the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR):(Florida Senate+2Florida Politics+2Florida Realtors+2)

• Increased Funding: A $7.4 million allocation, including $6.1 million in recurring funds, has been designated to support DBPR’s operations and staff to enforce the new regulations effectively (Florida Politics)
• Expanded Authority: DBPR’s authority has been expanded to investigate complaints and enforce compliance with condominium laws, addressing concerns about previous limitations in enforcement.

📅 Implementation Timeline

The provisions of House Bill 913 are set to take effect on July 1, 2025. Condominium associations are encouraged to begin preparations to comply with the new requirements ahead of the implementation date.

📌 Final Thoughts

Florida’s new condominium law represents a balanced approach to enhancing building safety while providing condominium associations with the flexibility needed to manage financial and operational challenges. By extending deadlines, increasing transparency, and strengthening enforcement, the law aims to protect residents and ensure the long-term viability of condominium communities.

For more detailed information on the specific provisions of House Bill 913 and how they may impact your condominium association, it is advisable to consult with legal professionals or contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.

If you are looking to buy a condo in South Florida, be sure to check out this list of 8 Things To Ask For When Buying A Condo In Florida.

Sources:

• Florida Senate. (2025). CS/CS/HB 913: Condominium and Cooperative Associations. Retrieved from Florida Senate
• Florida Politics. (2025). Gov. DeSantis signs ‘Condo 3.0’ bill aimed at boosting board accountability, building safety. Retrieved from Florida Politics
• Florida Realtors. (2025). DeSantis Signs New Florida Condo Law Effective July 1st. Retrieved from Perez Mayoral, P.A.
• Florida Realtors. (2025). DeSantis to Sign Condo Changes. Retrieved from
• Associated Press. (2025). Florida condo owners look at higher costs as new regulations take effect in the new year. Retrieved from AP News