Condominum Law

[Judona]

Hi,
I could sure use some help. I live in Florida and our Condominum is asking us to leave a key with the office. I am afraid to do this, since anyone and everyone has access to these keys. Also some of our units have been brokenh into. We are told that it is the law. From what I read, I believe it is not the law. Does anyone know Florids Condominum Law out there? What are my rights to privacy? How can I feel sucure in my home and protect my family? Thank you for any help you give, Judona

 

[HomeGuru]

Ask them to give you a copy of the section of the law that states that and post it here.
There is no such law unless it is in Disney World property where they have there own laws. Did you know that Disney World has their own building codes?

 

[Judona]

Condominum Laww

Hi,
Here is what the condo is using and how I see it. Do I understand it wrong?



Section 718.111

(5) RIGHT OF ACCESS TO UNITS.--The association has the irrevocable right of access to each unit during reasonable hours, when necessary for the maintenance, repair, or replacement of any common elements or of any portion of a unit to be maintained by the association pursuant to the declaration or as necessary to prevent damage to the common elements or to a unit or units.

That last bit is probably what they are using as a reason for wanting the key. They have the right to ASK you for a key, but you have the right to refuse to provide it to them, am I right? However, My refusal to provide it means that, if they damage my unit to gain EMERGENCY access (i.e. they knock in my front door because I'm not home and I have a water leak), I or my insurance is liable for any damage caused by entering. I have to pay to replace do my door, right? But I would rather that then have the security of my home at risk!

Thank you for your help, Judona :0)

 

[HomeGuru]

They have the wrong interpretation. The reason that the section of the law is there is to make sure that the HOA has a right to access the unit no matter who the occupant is and whether an owner occupant or tenant and/or guests of same reside in the unit. The clause is stricty for emergency and repair/maintenance purposes only and was not written to violate anyone's privacy or security. The HOA has the power to require access to the unit when needed but does not have the power to demand and require a key to the unit.
You are in the right on this.
Tell them that you will abide by Section 718.111 and for them to call you if and when access to the unit is required. You will be happy to give them access.

I guess they have not heard of the horror stories with resident managers, security, HOA property managers, maintenance people etc. having access to keys to the units.