Accessing Abandoned Condo Units in Florida: What You Need to Know

1. The Florida condominium association can inspect, maintain, and lease an abandoned unit under Section 718.111(5), Florida Statutes.

2. A unit is considered abandoned if it is subject to foreclosure and has had no tenant for four consecutive weeks or if no tenant has been present for two consecutive months and the association is unable to contact the owner.

3. The time difference in the definitions of an abandoned unit depends on whether a foreclosure action is pending or not.

4. The association should document the vacancy of the unit and maintain consistent records for the requisite time period to determine if the unit is indeed vacant. 1. Associations must provide a two-day notice to the owner before entering an abandoned unit, except in emergencies.
2. After the notice period, the association can enter the unit to inspect, make repairs, perform mold remediation, turn on utilities, or maintain the unit and common elements.
3. The association can charge the unit owner for any expenses incurred during entry, inspection, and repairs, and these expenses can be treated as assessments and collected through liens.
4. The association can petition a court to appoint a receiver to lease the abandoned unit and collect rent to offset past-due assessments and fees.

https://www.jimersonfirm.com/blog/2015/07/right-of-access-abandoned-condominium-units-in-florida/