Welcome to Your Community

Congratulations on your new home! As a property owner in a community governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA), you've joined an organization designed to maintain property values, manage common areas, and foster a pleasant living environment. This guide will help you understand how your Florida HOA operates and what to expect as a new member.

Table of Contents

  1. HOA Basics
  2. Florida-Specific HOA Laws
  3. Governance Structure
  4. Assessment and Fees
  5. Rules and Regulations
  6. Architectural Review Process
  7. Meetings and Voting
  8. Enforcement and Fines
  9. Dispute Resolution
  10. Hurricane Preparedness
  11. Being a Good HOA Member and Neighbor
  12. Resources for Homeowners

HOA Basics

What is an HOA?

A Homeowners Association (HOA) is a legal entity created to manage and maintain residential communities. When you purchased your property, you automatically became a member of the HOA and agreed to abide by its governing documents.

Governing Documents and Legal Hierarchy

HOAs operate under a specific hierarchy of governing documents and laws. Understanding this hierarchy is crucial when questions arise about which rules apply or take precedence.