Recent legislative changes in Florida are set to significantly broaden the digital requirements for condominium associations. Laws passed during the 2024 session, along with proposed measures under consideration for 2025, aim to require more communities to maintain official websites and expand the range of records that must be made available online. These efforts are part of a broader push to promote transparency, accessibility, and improved communication between associations and their members.
New Website Mandate for Smaller Communities
Previously, only condominium associations with 150 or more units were obligated to maintain a website. However, under a law enacted in 2024, associations with 25 or more units must have a website in place by January 1, 2026. This change means that many mid-sized associations, previously exempt, will now need to comply with online disclosure requirements.
In parallel, homeowners associations with 100 or more parcels are also subject to website requirements as of January 1, 2025.
House Bill 913: New Digital Recordkeeping Standards
House Bill 913, passed during the 2025 legislative session, is awaiting the Governor’s signature. If signed into law, it would take effect July 1, 2025 and introduce new obligations for associations required to maintain websites. These include:
- Posting approved meeting minutes and hyperlinks to video recordings of all meetings from the past 12 months.
- Ensuring these records are uploaded within 30 days of being created or received.
These additions are designed to make association operations more transparent and provide owners with easy, ongoing access to key records.
Secure Owner Portal Requirements
The law also mandates a private, password-protected section of the website accessible only to unit owners and association employees. This secure portal must include:
- The recorded declaration, bylaws, and any amendments
- Articles of incorporation
- The association’s rules and regulations
- Current and proposed annual budgets
- Year-end financial statements
- Monthly financial reports being considered at meetings
- All executory contracts and bids received in the past year, including summaries of bids exceeding $500
Websites as an Alternative to Physical Records Requests
Condo associations may direct unit owners to their website to satisfy official records requests, potentially reducing the time and cost associated with manual record production. While the development and upkeep of compliant websites can be resource-intensive, the long-term benefits often outweigh the initial investment.
Enhancing Transparency During Budget Discussions
With many associations facing questions about budget increases and rising assessments, maintaining an updated and well-organized website can be a key tool in fostering trust. By sharing financial documents, vendor proposals, and meeting archives, boards can demonstrate fiscal responsibility and reduce friction with concerned owners.
Final Thoughts
Florida’s evolving digital compliance landscape underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in community association governance. For condominium boards navigating increased scrutiny and rising owner expectations, an effective and compliant website is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity.