Florida’s 2025 Condo Law: What Associations Must Do Now

Are you part of a condo association in Florida? Big legislative changes just took effect in 2025 — and associations have new, non-negotiable responsibilities. These updates are designed to protect residents, preserve property values, and prevent another Surfside-type tragedy. If you own or manage a condo in Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, Oakland Park, Pompano Beach, Dania Beach, or anywhere in Broward County, here’s what you need to know.

TL;DR Summary

• Mandatory milestone inspections are now required for older condos.
• Fully funded reserves are no longer optional — boards must budget for them.
• Transparency is key: owners must have easy access to records and reports.
• Boards should act immediately to comply — or risk legal and financial consequences.
• For buyers, well-managed associations will be more attractive than ever.

Mandatory Structural Inspections

One of the most significant requirements is timely structural integrity inspections. Buildings at thirty years of age (or twenty-five if located within three miles of the coast) must undergo milestone inspections by licensed engineers or architects. These inspections are not optional and cannot be delayed. Associations must address any deficiencies identified and report results to local building officials.

For boards, this means staying proactive: scheduling inspections well in advance, budgeting for repairs, and maintaining proper documentation. Failure to comply could result in legal penalties — and worse, unsafe living conditions for residents.

Fully Funded Reserves

Florida law now requires condo associations to maintain fully funded reserves for critical repairs and replacement of key components, including:

• Roofing systems
• Electrical systems
• Plumbing
• Load-bearing walls
• Fireproofing and fire protection systems
• Windows and exterior waterproofing
• Structural floors and foundations

In the past, associations could vote to waive or underfund reserves — but that option is gone. Boards must adopt budgets that fully fund reserves, ensuring money is available when major repairs come due. While this may mean higher monthly assessments, it also means better protection for both the property and its owners.

Transparency and Record Access

Another key change is improved transparency. Associations must provide owners with easier access to official records, including reserve studies, inspection reports, budgets, and meeting minutes. Digital recordkeeping is encouraged, and boards must deliver these documents within statutory timelines.

This empowers condo owners to hold boards accountable and stay informed about the financial health and safety of their buildings. Transparency is not only a legal requirement now — it’s also a best practice for trust and community stability.

What Boards Must Do Right Now

To stay compliant and protect property values, condo boards should act immediately:

• Review timelines for structural milestone inspections and hire qualified professionals.
• Adopt budgets that fully fund reserves — and communicate the changes clearly to owners.
• Organize digital records so inspection reports, budgets, and reserves are easily accessible.
• Educate owners on why these changes are critical for safety and long-term property values.

For owners, this is a moment to get engaged. Ask your board how they are handling inspections, reserves, and records. Being proactive today helps avoid expensive special assessments and protects your investment tomorrow.

How This Impacts the Market

For buyers and sellers in Broward County, these new laws mean two things: stronger protections and closer scrutiny. Lenders and buyers will now look even harder at condo financials, reserve studies, and inspection reports before closing deals. Associations that comply will stand out as safer, better-managed, and more attractive to buyers. Those that don’t may see property values decline.

Final Takeaway

Florida’s 2025 condo legislation is reshaping how associations operate. It’s about safety, transparency, and financial responsibility. If you’re a condo owner, board member, or potential buyer in Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, or anywhere in Broward County, the time to act — and ask questions — is now.

About Scott Morreau

Scott Morreau, PA is a top-rated Realtor® and Broker Associate with Real Broker, LLC, specializing in residential real estate in Fort Lauderdale, Wilton Manors, Oakland Park, Pompano Beach, Dania Beach, and the surrounding Broward County communities. Licensed since 2001 and active in South Florida since 2006, Scott has closed over $52 million in Florida real estate, including $7.1 million in the past year alone.

Ranked among the top 500 agents in the region, with 70+ five-star reviews, Scott is a trusted resource for luxury and waterfront homes, investment deals including 1031 exchanges, relocation in or out of South Florida, and LGBTQ+ clients. Scott is known for concierge-level preparation, expert market insight, and a client-first approach he calls A Better Real Estate Experience.

📲 Call or text Scott at (954) 562-5111 or visit Scott Morreau PA - Top Realtor Wilton Manors & Fort Lauderdale Real Estate