Florida HOA Lawyer Blog
Without a doubt, the tragic disaster of the collapse in Surfside, Fla., has impacted condominium association boards of directors across the country. In addition to board members’ grief for the 98 victims who lost their lives and their loved ones, many condominium directors have also grown concerned over the news of numerous lawsuits against the association for the Champlain Towers South. They are wondering whether the association’s directors or their estates may now face legal consequences and liabilities, and if perhaps the lawsuits are an indicator that they themselves are potentially taking on serious liabilities with their voluntary board service.
In response to the misconceptions that are now circulating amongst board members and those who may be considering serving on associations’ boards, they should be aware that there are several reasons why they should not be so concerned about potential legal liabilities. On the contrary, the collapse of the tower should serve as a call to action for unit owners to become more involved and take on the responsibilities of becoming a director.
Board members are shielded from liability under a community’s Directors and Officers insurance, which defends and protects them from lawsuits, in addition to the indemnification provisions of the articles of incorporation of their association and the Florida laws governing not-for-profit corporations.