Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Florida

Condo Association Financial Matters
I recently bought a condo with only Five units making up the association.

three units have absolutely no interest to take part in the association. The forth unit is a single woman who "runs the show."

As a new kid on the block, I asked some simple questions. "Where does the monthly association fees go, and what accounting is applicable? ($75.00 a month for each unit owner). I was refused the information.

I have tried to make contact with her on several occasions, and she avoids me. I sent two friendly letters, which she did not respond to. I did speak to the previous owners, and they do not have nice things to say about the person. They also could not get any association information from the woman.

I am not accusing her of any improprieties, but cannot understand why she would refuse to divulge the name of the bank that the monies are deposited, furnish any statements or financial records, or share who the contractors might be that do maintenance on the property.

May I request some guidance...

Asked on 6/16/00, 3:47 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

William W. Fernandez, Sr., J.D. Law Ofc. Wm. W. Fernandez, Sr., J.D., Atty. at Law

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Access to Condo Assoc. Financials and Books

FACTS: Recently bought condo. Five units make up the assoc.; three have no interest and take no part; forth unit is the one who "runs the show." Asked some questions. "Where does the monthly assoc. fees go, and what accounting is applicable? Was refused the information. Have tried to make contact on several occasions but am avoided. Sent two letters which were not answered. Prior owners also could not get any assoc. information either.

Q. Am I entitled to statements or financial records, or to know who the contractors might be that do maintenance on the property? May I request some guidance?

A. There are FL. laws that give you rights to certain information. You make written demand [keep a copy for your use later]; and if you don't get it within a short period of time, you can sue and collect atty's fees and court costs. You may also want to call the Fl. Dept. of Condos. and Land Sales in Tallahassee and ask for their help.

Answered on 8/16/00, 6:39 pm

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