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Written by Heidi Hensell
October 23, 2025
Operating within a Condominium or Cooperative Association in Florida requires navigating distinct state laws that protect residents, boards, and managers. Chapter 718, known as The Condominium Act, and Chapter 719, the Cooperative Act, form the regulatory framework for these communities. Understanding how they apply is critical for Community Association Managers (CAMs), board members, and residents alike. tenancies and ensures fair treatment for all parties involved. Unlike traditional HOAs or condos, mobile home parks function under unique tenancy structures—making Chapter 723 essential for informed, compliant governance.
Chapter 718 legally defines condominium operations and includes provisions on:
Association Governance: Rules governing board elections, meetings, and administrative practice.
Financial Management: Guidelines for budgeting, reserve funds, and assessments.
Owners’ Rights: Regulations involving voting, access to common elements, and dispute resolution.
Maintenance Responsibilities: Clarifies the division of upkeep duties between unit owners and the Association.
Records & Transparency: Rights to inspect records and financials are legally protected.
Rule Enforcement: Procedures for enforcing community rules and imposing penalties.
Website Requirements: Since 2024, associations with 25+ units must maintain a website and post official records.
Chapter 719 governs cooperatives, where residents own shares in a corporation rather than individual units. It includes:
Ownership Structure: Defines shareholders’ rights and responsibilities and how governance is conducted.
Financial Framework: Addresses budgeting, assessments, and reserve requirements tailored to cooperative models.
Proprietary Leases: Outlines legal requirements for leases granted to shareholders.
Dispute Resolution & Administrative Powers: Procedures for resolving shareholder conflicts and information on emergency powers and quorum rules.
Understanding these statutes is vital for:
Legal Compliance: Avoid expensive errors by adhering to statutory mandates.
Operational Clarity: Navigate budgets, meetings, record availability, and enforcement with precision.
Resident Trust: Transparency and informed governance foster confidence in leadership.
Conflict Reduction: Statutory guidance helps resolve disputes effectively and proactively.
Stay Updated: Track legislative updates in Chapters 718 and 719 to remain compliant.
Translate Legalese: Simplify statutes into clear guidance for board and resident understanding.
Keep Comprehensive Records: Log meeting minutes, financials, notices, and communications diligently.
Ensure Digital Compliance: Help associations meet website posting requirements and transparency standards.
Advocate Best Practices: Guide governance in alignment with statutory rules and ethical expectations.
Chapters 718 and 719 are more than legal documents—they’re the foundation of effective, compliant, and harmonious living in Florida’s condominiums and cooperatives. For CAMs, board members, and residents pursuing healthy communities, understanding and applying these statutes paves the way to trust, stability, and professionalism.