PART
V
REGULATION AND DISCLOSURE
PRIOR TO SALE OF RESIDENTIAL
CONDOMINIUMS (ss. 718.501-718.509)
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718.501 Powers
and duties of Division of Florida Land Sales, Condominiums, and Mobile
Homes.
718.5011
Ombudsman; appointment; administration.
718.5012
Ombudsman; powers and duties.
718.5014
Ombudsman location.
718.50151
Advisory council; membership functions.
718.502 Filing
prior to sale or lease.
718.503 Developer
disclosure prior to sale; nondeveloper unit owner disclosure prior to sale;
voidability.
718.504 Prospectus
or offering circular.
718.505 Good
faith effort to comply.
718.506 Publication
of false and misleading information.
718.507 Zoning
and building laws, ordinances, and regulations.
718.508 Regulation
by Division of Hotels and Restaurants.
718.509 Division
of Florida Land Sales, Condominiums, and Mobile Homes Trust Fund.
718.501 Powers and duties
of Division of Florida Land Sales, Condominiums, and Mobile Homes.--
(1) The Division of Florida Land Sales, Condominiums, and Mobile
Homes of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, referred
to as the "division" in this part, in addition to other powers and duties
prescribed by chapter 498, has the power to enforce and ensure compliance
with the provisions of this chapter and rules promulgated pursuant hereto
relating to the development, construction, sale, lease, ownership, operation,
and management of residential condominium units. In performing its duties,
the division has the following powers and duties:
(a) The division may make necessary public or private investigations
within or outside this state to determine whether any person has violated
this chapter or any rule or order hereunder, to aid in the enforcement
of this chapter, or to aid in the adoption of rules or forms hereunder.
(b) The division may require or permit any person to file a statement
in writing, under oath or otherwise, as the division determines, as to
the facts and circumstances concerning a matter to be investigated.
(c) For the purpose of any investigation under this chapter,
the division director or any officer or employee designated by the division
director may administer oaths or affirmations, subpoena witnesses and compel
their attendance, take evidence, and require the production of any matter
which is relevant to the investigation, including the existence, description,
nature, custody, condition, and location of any books, documents, or other
tangible things and the identity and location of persons having knowledge
of relevant facts or any other matter reasonably calculated to lead to
the discovery of material evidence. Upon the failure by a person to obey
a subpoena or to answer questions propounded by the investigating officer
and upon reasonable notice to all persons affected thereby, the division
may apply to the circuit court for an order compelling compliance.
(d) Notwithstanding any remedies available to unit owners and
associations, if the division has reasonable cause to believe that a violation
of any provision of this chapter or rule promulgated pursuant hereto has
occurred, the division may institute enforcement proceedings in its own
name against any developer, association, officer, or member of the board
of administration, or its assignees or agents, as follows:
1. The division may permit a person whose conduct or actions
may be under investigation to waive formal proceedings and enter into a
consent proceeding whereby orders, rules, or letters of censure or warning,
whether formal or informal, may be entered against the person.
2. The division may issue an order requiring the developer, association,
officer, or member of the board of administration, or its assignees or
agents, to cease and desist from the unlawful practice and take such affirmative
action as in the judgment of the division will carry out the purposes of
this chapter. Such affirmative action may include, but is not limited to,
an order requiring a developer to pay moneys determined to be owed to a
condominium association.
3. The division may bring an action in circuit court on behalf
of a class of unit owners, lessees, or purchasers for declaratory relief,
injunctive relief, or restitution.
4. The division may impose a civil penalty against a developer
or association, or its assignee or agent, for any violation of this chapter
or a rule promulgated pursuant hereto. The division may impose a civil
penalty individually against any officer or board member who willfully
and knowingly violates a provision of this chapter, a rule adopted pursuant
hereto, or a final order of the division. The term "willfully and knowingly"
means that the division informed the officer or board member that his or
her action or intended action violates this chapter, a rule adopted under
this chapter, or a final order of the division and that the officer or
board member refused to comply with the requirements of this chapter, a
rule adopted under this chapter, or a final order of the division. The
division, prior to initiating formal agency action under chapter 120, shall
afford the officer or board member an opportunity to voluntarily comply
with this chapter, a rule adopted under this chapter, or a final order
of the division. An officer or board member who complies within 10 days
is not subject to a civil penalty. A penalty may be imposed on the basis
of each day of continuing violation, but in no event shall the penalty
for any offense exceed $5,000. By January 1, 1998, the division shall adopt,
by rule, penalty guidelines applicable to possible violations or to categories
of violations of this chapter or rules adopted by the division. The guidelines
must specify a meaningful range of civil penalties for each such violation
of the statute and rules and must be based upon the harm caused by the
violation, the repetition of the violation, and upon such other factors
deemed relevant by the division. For example, the division may consider
whether the violations were committed by a developer or owner-controlled
association, the size of the association, and other factors. The guidelines
must designate the possible mitigating or aggravating circumstances that
justify a departure from the range of penalties provided by the rules.
It is the legislative intent that minor violations be distinguished from
those which endanger the health, safety, or welfare of the condominium
residents or other persons and that such guidelines provide reasonable
and meaningful notice to the public of likely penalties that may be imposed
for proscribed conduct. This subsection does not limit the ability of the
division to informally dispose of administrative actions or complaints
by stipulation, agreed settlement, or consent order. All amounts collected
shall be deposited with the Treasurer to the credit of the Division of
Florida Land Sales, Condominiums, and Mobile Homes Trust Fund. If a developer
fails to pay the civil penalty, the division shall thereupon issue an order
directing that such developer cease and desist from further operation until
such time as the civil penalty is paid or may pursue enforcement of the
penalty in a court of competent jurisdiction. If an association fails to
pay the civil penalty, the division shall thereupon pursue enforcement
in a court of competent jurisdiction, and the order imposing the civil
penalty or the cease and desist order will not become effective until 20
days after the date of such order. Any action commenced by the division
shall be brought in the county in which the division has its executive
offices or in the county where the violation occurred.
(e) The division is authorized to prepare and disseminate a prospectus
and other information to assist prospective owners, purchasers, lessees,
and developers of residential condominiums in assessing the rights, privileges,
and duties pertaining thereto.
(f) The division has authority to adopt rules pursuant to ss.
120.536(1) and 120.54 to implement and enforce the provisions of this chapter.
(g) The division shall establish procedures for providing notice
to an association when the division is considering the issuance of a declaratory
statement with respect to the declaration of condominium or any related
document governing in such condominium community.
(h) The division shall furnish each association which pays the
fees required by paragraph (2)(a) a copy of this act, subsequent changes
to this act on an annual basis, an amended version of this act as it becomes
available from the Secretary of State's office on a biennial basis, and
the rules promulgated pursuant thereto on an annual basis.
(i) The division shall annually provide each association with
a summary of declaratory statements and formal legal opinions relating
to the operations of condominiums which were rendered by the division during
the previous year.
(j) The division shall provide training programs for condominium
association board members and unit owners.
(k) The division shall maintain a toll-free telephone number
accessible to condominium unit owners.
(l) The division shall develop a program to certify both volunteer
and paid mediators to provide mediation of condominium disputes. The division
shall provide, upon request, a list of such mediators to any association,
unit owner, or other participant in arbitration proceedings under s. 718.1255
requesting a copy of the list. The division shall include on the list of
volunteer mediators only the names of persons who have received at least
20 hours of training in mediation techniques or who have mediated at least
20 disputes. In order to become initially certified by the division, paid
mediators must be certified by the Supreme Court to mediate court cases
in either county or circuit courts. However, the division may adopt, by
rule, additional factors for the certification of paid mediators, which
factors must be related to experience, education, or background. Any person
initially certified as a paid mediator by the division must, in order to
continue to be certified, comply with the factors or requirements imposed
by rules adopted by the division.
(m) When a complaint is made, the division shall conduct its
inquiry with due regard to the interests of the affected parties. Within
30 days after receipt of a complaint, the division shall acknowledge the
complaint in writing and notify the complainant whether the complaint is
within the jurisdiction of the division and whether additional information
is needed by the division from the complainant. The division shall conduct
its investigation and shall, within 90 days after receipt of the original
complaint or of timely requested additional information, take action upon
the complaint. However, the failure to complete the investigation within
90 days does not prevent the division from continuing the investigation,
accepting or considering evidence obtained or received after 90 days, or
taking administrative action if reasonable cause exists to believe that
a violation of this chapter or a rule of the division has occurred. If
an investigation is not completed within the time limits established in
this paragraph, the division shall, on a monthly basis, notify the complainant
in writing of the status of the investigation. When reporting its action
to the complainant, the division shall inform the complainant of any right
to a hearing pursuant to ss. 120.569 and 120.57.
(2)(a) Effective January 1, 1992, each condominium association
which operates more than two units shall pay to the division an annual
fee in the amount of $4 for each residential unit in condominiums operated
by the association. If the fee is not paid by March 1, then the association
shall be assessed a penalty of 10 percent of the amount due, and the association
will not have standing to maintain or defend any action in the courts of
this state until the amount due, plus any penalty, is paid.
(b) All fees shall be deposited in the Division of Florida Land
Sales, Condominiums, and Mobile Homes Trust Fund as provided by law.
718.5011
Ombudsman; appointment; administration.--
(1) There is created an
Office of the Condominium Ombudsman, to be located for administrative purposes
within the Division of Florida Land Sales, Condominiums, and Mobile Homes. The
functions of the office shall be funded by the Division of Florida Land Sales,
Condominiums, and Mobile Homes Trust Fund. The ombudsman shall be a bureau chief
of the division, and the office shall be set within the division in the same
manner as any other bureau is staffed and funded.
(2) The Governor shall
appoint the ombudsman. The ombudsman must be an attorney admitted to practice
before the Florida Supreme Court and shall serve at the pleasure of the
Governor. A vacancy in the office shall be filled in the same manner as the
original appointment. An officer or full-time employee of the ombudsman's office
may not actively engage in any other business or profession; serve as the
representative of any political party, executive committee, or other governing
body of a political party; serve as an executive, officer, or employee of a
political party; receive remuneration for activities on behalf of any candidate
for public office; or engage in soliciting votes or other activities on behalf
of a candidate for public office. The ombudsman or any employee of his or her
office may not become a candidate for election to public office unless he or she
first resigns from his or her office or employment.
History.--s.
6, ch. 2004-345.
718.5012 Ombudsman;
powers and duties.--
The ombudsman shall have the powers
that are necessary to carry out the duties of his or her office, including the
following specific powers:
(1) To have access to and
use of all files and records of the division.
(2) To employ professional
and clerical staff as necessary for the efficient operation of the office.
(3) To prepare and issue
reports and recommendations to the Governor, the department, the division, the
Advisory Council on Condominiums, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker
of the House of Representatives on any matter or subject within the jurisdiction
of the division. The ombudsman shall make recommendations he or she deems
appropriate for legislation relative to division procedures, rules,
jurisdiction, personnel, and functions.
(4) To act as liaison
between the division, unit owners, boards of directors, board members, community
association managers, and other affected parties. The ombudsman shall develop
policies and procedures to assist unit owners, boards of directors, board
members, community association managers, and other affected parties to
understand their rights and responsibilities as set forth in this chapter and
the condominium documents governing their respective association. The ombudsman
shall coordinate and assist in the preparation and adoption of educational and
reference material, and shall endeavor to coordinate with private or volunteer
providers of these services, so that the availability of these resources is made
known to the largest possible audience.
(5) To monitor and review
procedures and disputes concerning condominium elections or meetings, including,
but not limited to, recommending that the division pursue enforcement action in
any manner where there is reasonable cause to believe that election misconduct
has occurred.
(6) To make recommendations
to the division for changes in rules and procedures for the filing,
investigation, and resolution of complaints filed by unit owners, associations,
and managers.
(7) To provide resources to
assist members of boards of directors and officers of associations to carry out
their powers and duties consistent with this chapter, division rules, and the
condominium documents governing the association.
(8) To encourage and
facilitate voluntary meetings with and between unit owners, boards of directors,
board members, community association managers, and other affected parties when
the meetings may assist in resolving a dispute within a community association
before a person submits a dispute for a formal or administrative remedy. It is
the intent of the Legislature that the ombudsman act as a neutral resource for
both the rights and responsibilities of unit owners, associations, and board
members.
(9) Fifteen percent of the
total voting interests in a condominium association, or six unit owners,
whichever is greater, may petition the ombudsman to appoint an election monitor
to attend the annual meeting of the unit owners and conduct the election of
directors. The ombudsman shall appoint a division employee, a person or persons
specializing in condominium election monitoring, or an attorney licensed to
practice in this state as the election monitor. All costs associated with the
election monitoring process shall be paid by the association. The division shall
adopt a rule establishing procedures for the appointment of election monitors
and the scope and extent of the monitor's role in the election process.
History.--ss.
7, 36, ch. 2004-345.
718.5014
Ombudsman location.--
The ombudsman shall maintain his or her
principal office in Leon County on the premises of the division or, if suitable
space cannot be provided there, at another place convenient to the offices of
the division which will enable the ombudsman to expeditiously carry out the
duties and functions of his or her office. The ombudsman may establish branch
offices elsewhere in the state upon the concurrence of the Governor.
History.--s.
8, ch. 2004-345.
718.50151
Advisory council; membership functions.--
(1) There is created the
Advisory Council on Condominiums. The council shall consist of seven appointed
members. Two members shall be appointed by the President of the Senate, two
members shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and
three members shall be appointed by the Governor. At least one member that is
appointed by the Governor shall represent timeshare condominiums. Members shall
be appointed to 2-year terms; however, one of the persons initially appointed by
the Governor, by the President of the Senate, and by the Speaker of the House of
Representatives shall be appointed to a 1-year term. The director of the
division shall serve as an ex officio nonvoting member. The Legislature intends
that the persons appointed represent a cross-section of persons interested in
condominium issues. The council shall be located within the division for
administrative purposes. Members of the council shall serve without compensation
but are entitled to receive per diem and travel expenses pursuant to s. 112.061
while on official business.
(2) The functions of the
advisory council shall be to:
(a) Receive, from the
public, input regarding issues of concern with respect to condominiums and
recommendations for changes in the condominium law. The issues that the council
shall consider include, but are not limited to, the rights and responsibilities
of the unit owners in relation to the rights and responsibilities of the
association.
(b) Review, evaluate, and
advise the division concerning revisions and adoption of rules affecting
condominiums.
(c) Recommend improvements,
if needed, in the education programs offered by the division.
(3) The council may elect a
chair and vice chair and such other officers as it may deem advisable. The
council shall meet at the call of its chair, at the request of a majority of its
membership, at the request of the division, or at such times as it may
prescribe. A majority of the members of the council shall constitute a quorum.
Council action may be taken by vote of a majority of the voting members who are
present at a meeting where there is a quorum.
History.--s.
5, ch. 2004-345.
718.502
Filing prior to sale or lease.--
(1)(a) A developer of a residential condominium or mixed-use
condominium shall file with the division one copy of each of the documents
and items required to be furnished to a buyer or lessee by ss. 718.503
and 718.504, if applicable. Until the developer has so filed, a contract
for sale of a unit or lease of a unit for more than 5 years shall be voidable
by the purchaser or lessee prior to the closing of his or her purchase
or lease of a unit.
(b) A developer may not close on any contract for sale or contract
for a lease period of more than 5 years until the developer prepares and
files with the division documents complying with the requirements of this
chapter and the rules adopted by the division and until the division notifies
the developer that the filing is proper and the developer prepares and
delivers all documents required by s. 718.503(1)(b) to the prospective
buyer.
(c) The division by rule may develop filing, review, and examination
requirements and relevant timetables to ensure compliance with the notice
and disclosure provisions of this section.
(2)(a) Prior to filing as required by subsection (1), and prior
to acquiring an ownership, leasehold, or contractual interest in the land
upon which the condominium is to be developed, a developer shall not offer
a contract for purchase of a unit or lease of a unit for more than 5 years.
However, the developer may accept deposits for reservations upon the approval
of a fully executed escrow agreement and reservation agreement form properly
filed with the Division of Florida Land Sales, Condominiums, and Mobile
Homes. Each filing of a proposed reservation program shall be accompanied
by a filing fee of $250. Reservations shall not be taken on a proposed
condominium unless the developer has an ownership, leasehold, or contractual
interest in the land upon which the condominium is to be developed. The
division shall notify the developer within 20 days of receipt of the reservation
filing of any deficiencies contained therein. Such notification shall not
preclude the determination of reservation filing deficiencies at a later
date, nor shall it relieve the developer of any responsibility under the
law. The escrow agreement and the reservation agreement form shall include
a statement of the right of the prospective purchaser to an immediate unqualified
refund of the reservation deposit moneys upon written request to the escrow
agent by the prospective purchaser or the developer.
(b) The executed escrow agreement signed by the developer and
the escrow agent shall contain the following information:
1. A statement that the escrow agent will grant a prospective
purchaser an immediate, unqualified refund of the reservation deposit moneys
upon written request either directly to the escrow agent or to the developer.
2. A statement that the escrow agent is responsible for not releasing
moneys directly to the developer except as a down payment on the purchase
price at the time a contract is signed by the purchaser if provided in
the contract.
(c) The reservation agreement form shall include the following:
1. A statement of the obligation of the developer to file condominium
documents with the division prior to entering into a binding purchase agreement
or binding agreement for a lease of more than 5 years.
2. A statement of the right of the prospective purchaser to receive
all condominium documents as required by this chapter.
3. The name and address of the escrow agent.
4. A statement as to whether the developer assures that the purchase
price represented in or pursuant to the reservation agreement will be the
price in the contract for purchase and sale or that the price represented
may be exceeded within a stated amount or percentage or that no assurance
is given as to the price in the contract for purchase or sale.
5. A statement that the deposit must be payable to the escrow
agent and that the escrow agent must provide a receipt to the prospective
purchaser.
(3) Upon filing as required by subsection (1), the developer
shall pay to the division a filing fee of $20 for each residential unit
to be sold by the developer which is described in the documents filed.
If the condominium is to be built or sold in phases, the fee shall be paid
prior to offering for sale units in any subsequent phase. Every developer
who holds a unit or units for sale in a condominium shall submit to the
division any amendments to documents or items on file with the division
and deliver to purchasers all amendments prior to closing, but in no event,
later than 10 days after the amendment. Upon filing of amendments to documents
currently on file with the division, the developer shall pay to the division
a filing fee of up to $100 per filing, with the exact fee to be set by
division rule.
(4) Any developer who complies with this section is not required
to file with any other division or agency of this state for approval to
sell the units in the condominium, the information for the condominium
for which he or she filed.
(5) In addition to those disclosures described by ss. 718.503
and 718.504, the division is authorized to require such other disclosure
as deemed necessary to fully or fairly disclose all aspects of the offering.
718.503
Developer disclosure prior to sale; nondeveloper unit owner disclosure
prior to sale; voidability.--
(1) DEVELOPER DISCLOSURE.--
(a) Contents of contracts.--Any contract for the sale of a residential
unit or a lease thereof for an unexpired term of more than 5 years shall:
1. Contain the following legend in conspicuous type: THIS AGREEMENT
IS VOIDABLE BY BUYER BY DELIVERING WRITTEN NOTICE OF THE BUYER'S INTENTION
TO CANCEL WITHIN 15 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF EXECUTION OF THIS AGREEMENT
BY THE BUYER, AND RECEIPT BY BUYER OF ALL OF THE ITEMS REQUIRED TO BE DELIVERED
TO HIM OR HER BY THE DEVELOPER UNDER SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES.
THIS AGREEMENT IS ALSO VOIDABLE BY BUYER BY DELIVERING WRITTEN NOTICE OF
THE BUYER'S INTENTION TO CANCEL WITHIN 15 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF RECEIPT
FROM THE DEVELOPER OF ANY AMENDMENT WHICH MATERIALLY ALTERS OR MODIFIES
THE OFFERING IN A MANNER THAT IS ADVERSE TO THE BUYER. ANY PURPORTED WAIVER
OF THESE VOIDABILITY RIGHTS SHALL BE OF NO EFFECT. BUYER MAY EXTEND THE
TIME FOR CLOSING FOR A PERIOD OF NOT MORE THAN 15 DAYS AFTER THE BUYER
HAS RECEIVED ALL OF THE ITEMS REQUIRED. BUYER'S RIGHT TO VOID THIS AGREEMENT
SHALL TERMINATE AT CLOSING.
2. Contain the following caveat in conspicuous type on the first
page of the contract: ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY
STATING THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS,
REFERENCE SHOULD BE MADE TO THIS CONTRACT AND THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY
SECTION 718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A
BUYER OR LESSEE.
3. If the unit has been occupied by someone other than the buyer,
contain a statement that the unit has been occupied.
4. If the contract is for the sale or transfer of a unit subject
to a lease, include as an exhibit a copy of the executed lease and shall
contain within the text in conspicuous type: THE UNIT IS SUBJECT TO A LEASE
(OR SUBLEASE).
5. If the contract is for the lease of a unit for a term of 5
years or more, include as an exhibit a copy of the proposed lease.
6. If the contract is for the sale or lease of a unit that is
subject to a lien for rent payable under a lease of a recreational facility
or other commonly used facility, contain within the text the following
statement in conspicuous type: THIS CONTRACT IS FOR THE TRANSFER OF A UNIT
THAT IS SUBJECT TO A LIEN FOR RENT PAYABLE UNDER A LEASE OF COMMONLY USED
FACILITIES. FAILURE TO PAY RENT MAY RESULT IN FORECLOSURE OF THE LIEN.
7. State the name and address of the escrow agent required by
s. 718.202 and state that the purchaser may obtain a receipt for his or
her deposit from the escrow agent upon request.
8. If the contract is for the sale or transfer of a unit in a
condominium in which timeshare estates have been or may be created, contain
within the text in conspicuous type: UNITS IN THIS CONDOMINIUM ARE SUBJECT
TO TIMESHARE ESTATES. The contract for the sale of a fee interest in a
timeshare estate shall also contain, in conspicuous type, the following:
FOR THE PURPOSE OF AD VALOREM TAXES OR SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS LEVIED BY TAXING
AUTHORITIES AGAINST A FEE INTEREST IN A TIMESHARE ESTATE, THE MANAGING
ENTITY IS GENERALLY CONSIDERED THE TAXPAYER UNDER FLORIDA LAW. YOU HAVE
THE RIGHT TO CHALLENGE AN ASSESSMENT BY A TAXING AUTHORITY RELATING TO
YOUR TIMESHARE ESTATE PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 194, FLORIDA
STATUTES. (b) Copies of documents to be furnished to prospective
buyer or lessee.--Until such time as the developer has furnished the documents
listed below to a person who has entered into a contract to purchase a
residential unit or lease it for more than 5 years, the contract may be
voided by that person, entitling the person to a refund of any deposit
together with interest thereon as provided in s. 718.202. The contract
may be terminated by written notice from the proposed buyer or lessee delivered
to the developer within 15 days after the buyer or lessee receives all
of the documents required by this section. The developer may not close
for 15 days following the execution of the agreement and delivery of the
documents to the buyer as evidenced by a signed receipt for documents unless
the buyer is informed in the 15-day voidability period and agrees to close
prior to the expiration of the 15 days. The developer shall retain in his
or her records a separate agreement signed by the buyer as proof of the
buyer's agreement to close prior to the expiration of said voidability
period. Said proof shall be retained for a period of 5 years after the
date of the closing of the transaction. The documents to be delivered to
the prospective buyer are the prospectus or disclosure statement with all
exhibits, if the development is subject to the provisions of s. 718.504,
or, if not, then copies of the following which are applicable:
1. The question and answer sheet described in s. 718.504, and
declaration of condominium, or the proposed declaration if the declaration
has not been recorded, which shall include the certificate of a surveyor
approximately representing the locations required by s. 718.104.
2. The documents creating the association.
3. The bylaws.
4. The ground lease or other underlying lease of the condominium.
5. The management contract, maintenance contract, and other contracts
for management of the association and operation of the condominium and
facilities used by the unit owners having a service term in excess of 1
year, and any management contracts that are renewable.
6. The estimated operating budget for the condominium and a schedule
of expenses for each type of unit, including fees assessed pursuant to
s. 718.113(1) for the maintenance of limited common elements where such
costs are shared only by those entitled to use the limited common elements.
7. The lease of recreational and other facilities that will be
used only by unit owners of the subject condominium.
8. The lease of recreational and other common facilities that
will be used by unit owners in common with unit owners of other condominiums.
9. The form of unit lease if the offer is of a leasehold.
10. Any declaration of servitude of properties serving the condominium
but not owned by unit owners or leased to them or the association.
11. If the development is to be built in phases or if the association
is to manage more than one condominium, a description of the plan of phase
development or the arrangements for the association to manage two or more
condominiums.
12. If the condominium is a conversion of existing improvements,
the statements and disclosure required by s. 718.616.
13. The form of agreement for sale or lease of units.
14. A copy of the floor plan of the unit and the plot plan showing
the location of the residential buildings and the recreation and other
common areas.
15. A copy of all covenants and restrictions which will affect
the use of the property and which are not contained in the foregoing.
16. If the developer is required by state or local authorities
to obtain acceptance or approval of any dock or marina facilities intended
to serve the condominium, a copy of any such acceptance or approval acquired
by the time of filing with the division under s. 718.502(1), or a statement
that such acceptance or approval has not been acquired or received.
17. Evidence demonstrating that the developer has an ownership,
leasehold, or contractual interest in the land upon which the condominium
is to be developed.
(2) NONDEVELOPER DISCLOSURE.--
(a) Each unit owner who is not a developer as defined by this
chapter shall comply with the provisions of this subsection prior to the sale of
his or her unit. Each prospective purchaser who has entered into a contract for
the purchase of a condominium unit is entitled, at the seller's expense, to a
current copy of the declaration of condominium, articles of incorporation of the
association, bylaws and rules of the association, financial information required
by s. 718.111, and the document entitled "Frequently Asked Questions and
Answers" required by s. 718.504.
(b) If a person licensed under part I of chapter 475 provides to
or otherwise obtains for a prospective purchaser the documents described in this
subsection, the person is not liable for any error or inaccuracy contained in
the documents.
(c) Each contract entered into after July 1, 1992, for the resale
of a residential unit shall contain in conspicuous type either:
1. A clause which states: THE BUYER HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGES THAT BUYER
HAS BEEN PROVIDED A CURRENT COPY OF THE DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM, ARTICLES OF
INCORPORATION OF THE ASSOCIATION, BYLAWS AND RULES OF THE ASSOCIATION, AND A
COPY OF THE MOST RECENT YEAR-END FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS DOCUMENT MORE THAN 3 DAYS, EXCLUDING SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS,
AND LEGAL HOLIDAYS, PRIOR TO EXECUTION OF THIS CONTRACT; or
2. A clause which states: THIS AGREEMENT IS VOIDABLE BY BUYER BY
DELIVERING WRITTEN NOTICE OF THE BUYER'S INTENTION TO CANCEL WITHIN 3 DAYS,
EXCLUDING SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS, AND LEGAL HOLIDAYS, AFTER THE DATE OF EXECUTION OF
THIS AGREEMENT BY THE BUYER AND RECEIPT BY BUYER OF A CURRENT COPY OF THE
DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM, ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION, BYLAWS AND RULES OF THE
ASSOCIATION, AND A COPY OF THE MOST RECENT YEAR-END FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS DOCUMENT IF SO REQUESTED IN WRITING. ANY
PURPORTED WAIVER OF THESE VOIDABILITY RIGHTS SHALL BE OF NO EFFECT. BUYER MAY
EXTEND THE TIME FOR CLOSING FOR A PERIOD OF NOT MORE THAN 3 DAYS, EXCLUDING
SATURDAYS, SUNDAYS, AND LEGAL HOLIDAYS, AFTER THE BUYER RECEIVES THE
DECLARATION, ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION, BYLAWS AND RULES OF THE ASSOCIATION, AND
A COPY OF THE MOST RECENT YEAR-END FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS DOCUMENT IF REQUESTED IN WRITING. BUYER'S RIGHT TO VOID
THIS AGREEMENT SHALL TERMINATE AT CLOSING.
A contract that does not conform to the requirements of this paragraph is
voidable at the option of the purchaser prior to closing.
(3) OTHER DISCLOSURE.--
(a) If residential condominium parcels are offered for sale or
lease prior to completion of construction of the units and of improvements to
the common elements, or prior to completion of remodeling of previously occupied
buildings, the developer shall make available to each prospective purchaser or
lessee, for his or her inspection at a place convenient to the site, a copy of
the complete plans and specifications for the construction or remodeling of the
unit offered to him or her and of the improvements to the common elements
appurtenant to the unit.
(b) Sales brochures, if any, shall be provided to each purchaser,
and the following caveat in conspicuous type shall be placed on the inside front
cover or on the first page containing text material of the sales brochure, or
otherwise conspicuously displayed: ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS
CORRECTLY STATING REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS,
MAKE REFERENCE TO THIS BROCHURE AND TO THE DOCUMENTS REQUIRED BY SECTION
718.503, FLORIDA STATUTES, TO BE FURNISHED BY A DEVELOPER TO A BUYER OR LESSEE.
If timeshare estates have been or may be created with respect to any unit in the
condominium, the sales brochure shall contain the following statement in
conspicuous type: UNITS IN THIS CONDOMINIUM ARE SUBJECT TO TIMESHARE ESTATES.
718.504
Prospectus or offering circular.--Every developer of a residential
condominium which contains more than 20 residential units, or which is
part of a group of residential condominiums which will be served by property
to be used in common by unit owners of more than 20 residential units,
shall prepare a prospectus or offering circular and file it with the Division
of Florida Land Sales, Condominiums, and Mobile Homes prior to entering
into an enforceable contract of purchase and sale of any unit or lease
of a unit for more than 5 years and shall furnish a copy of the prospectus
or offering circular to each buyer. In addition to the prospectus or offering
circular, each buyer shall be furnished a separate page entitled "Frequently
Asked Questions and Answers," which shall be in accordance with a format
approved by the division and a copy of the financial information required
by s. 718.111. This page shall, in readable language, inform prospective
purchasers regarding their voting rights and unit use restrictions, including
restrictions on the leasing of a unit; shall indicate whether and in what
amount the unit owners or the association is obligated to pay rent or land
use fees for recreational or other commonly used facilities; shall contain
a statement identifying that amount of assessment which, pursuant to the
budget, would be levied upon each unit type, exclusive of any special assessments,
and which shall further identify the basis upon which assessments are levied,
whether monthly, quarterly, or otherwise; shall state and identify any
court cases in which the association is currently a party of record in
which the association may face liability in excess of $100,000; and which
shall further state whether membership in a recreational facilities association
is mandatory, and if so, shall identify the fees currently charged per
unit type. The division shall by rule require such other disclosure as
in its judgment will assist prospective purchasers. The prospectus or offering
circular may include more than one condominium, although not all such units
are being offered for sale as of the date of the prospectus or offering
circular. The prospectus or offering circular must contain the following
information:
(1) The front cover or the first page must contain only:
(a) The name of the condominium.
(b) The following statements in conspicuous type:
1. THIS PROSPECTUS (OFFERING CIRCULAR) CONTAINS IMPORTANT MATTERS
TO BE CONSIDERED IN ACQUIRING A CONDOMINIUM UNIT.
2. THE STATEMENTS CONTAINED HEREIN ARE ONLY SUMMARY IN NATURE.
A PROSPECTIVE PURCHASER SHOULD REFER TO ALL REFERENCES, ALL EXHIBITS HERETO,
THE CONTRACT DOCUMENTS, AND SALES MATERIALS.
3. ORAL REPRESENTATIONS CANNOT BE RELIED UPON AS CORRECTLY STATING
THE REPRESENTATIONS OF THE DEVELOPER. REFER TO THIS PROSPECTUS (OFFERING
CIRCULAR) AND ITS EXHIBITS FOR CORRECT REPRESENTATIONS.
(2) Summary: The next page must contain all statements required
to be in conspicuous type in the prospectus or offering circular.
(3) A separate index of the contents and exhibits of the prospectus.
(4) Beginning on the first page of the text (not including the
summary and index), a description of the condominium, including, but not
limited to, the following information:
(a) Its name and location.
(b) A description of the condominium property, including, without
limitation:
1. The number of buildings, the number of units in each building,
the number of bathrooms and bedrooms in each unit, and the total number
of units, if the condominium is not a phase condominium, or the maximum
number of buildings that may be contained within the condominium, the minimum
and maximum numbers of units in each building, the minimum and maximum
numbers of bathrooms and bedrooms that may be contained in each unit, and
the maximum number of units that may be contained within the condominium,
if the condominium is a phase condominium.
2. The page in the condominium documents where a copy of the
plot plan and survey of the condominium is located.
3. The estimated latest date of completion of constructing, finishing,
and equipping. In lieu of a date, the description shall include a statement
that the estimated date of completion of the condominium is in the purchase
agreement and a reference to the article or paragraph containing that information.
(c) The maximum number of units that will use facilities in common
with the condominium. If the maximum number of units will vary, a description
of the basis for variation and the minimum amount of dollars per unit to
be spent for additional recreational facilities or enlargement of such
facilities. If the addition or enlargement of facilities will result in
a material increase of a unit owner's maintenance expense or rental expense,
if any, the maximum increase and limitations thereon shall be stated.
(5)(a) A statement in conspicuous type describing whether the
condominium is created and being sold as fee simple interests or as leasehold
interests. If the condominium is created or being sold on a leasehold,
the location of the lease in the disclosure materials shall be stated.
(b) If timeshare estates are or may be created with respect to
any unit in the condominium, a statement in conspicuous type stating that
timeshare estates are created and being sold in units in the condominium.
(6) A description of the recreational and other commonly used
facilities that will be used only by unit owners of the condominium, including,
but not limited to, the following:
(a) Each room and its intended purposes, location, approximate
floor area, and capacity in numbers of people.
(b) Each swimming pool, as to its general location, approximate
size and depths, approximate deck size and capacity, and whether heated.
(c) Additional facilities, as to the number of each facility,
its approximate location, approximate size, and approximate capacity.
(d) A general description of the items of personal property and
the approximate number of each item of personal property that the developer
is committing to furnish for each room or other facility or, in the alternative,
a representation as to the minimum amount of expenditure that will be made
to purchase the personal property for the facility.
(e) The estimated date when each room or other facility will
be available for use by the unit owners.
(f)1. An identification of each room or other facility to be
used by unit owners that will not be owned by the unit owners or the association;
2. A reference to the location in the disclosure materials of
the lease or other agreements providing for the use of those facilities;
and
3. A description of the terms of the lease or other agreements,
including the length of the term; the rent payable, directly or indirectly,
by each unit owner, and the total rent payable to the lessor, stated in
monthly and annual amounts for the entire term of the lease; and a description
of any option to purchase the property leased under any such lease, including
the time the option may be exercised, the purchase price or how it is to
be determined, the manner of payment, and whether the option may be exercised
for a unit owner's share or only as to the entire leased property.
(g) A statement as to whether the developer may provide additional
facilities not described above; their general locations and types; improvements
or changes that may be made; the approximate dollar amount to be expended;
and the maximum additional common expense or cost to the individual unit
owners that may be charged during the first annual period of operation
of the modified or added facilities.
Descriptions as to locations, areas, capacities, numbers, volumes, or
sizes may be stated as approximations or minimums.
(7) A description of the recreational and other facilities that
will be used in common with other condominiums, community associations,
or planned developments which require the payment of the maintenance and
expenses of such facilities, either directly or indirectly, by the unit
owners. The description shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(a) Each building and facility committed to be built.
(b) Facilities not committed to be built except under certain
conditions, and a statement of those conditions or contingencies.
(c) As to each facility committed to be built, or which will
be committed to be built upon the happening of one of the conditions in
paragraph (b), a statement of whether it will be owned by the unit owners
having the use thereof or by an association or other entity which will
be controlled by them, or others, and the location in the exhibits of the
lease or other document providing for use of those facilities.
(d) The year in which each facility will be available for use
by the unit owners or, in the alternative, the maximum number of unit owners
in the project at the time each of all of the facilities is committed to
be completed.
(e) A general description of the items of personal property,
and the approximate number of each item of personal property, that the
developer is committing to furnish for each room or other facility or,
in the alternative, a representation as to the minimum amount of expenditure
that will be made to purchase the personal property for the facility.
(f) If there are leases, a description thereof, including the
length of the term, the rent payable, and a description of any option to
purchase.
Descriptions shall include location, areas, capacities, numbers, volumes,
or sizes and may be stated as approximations or minimums.
(8) Recreation lease or associated club membership:
(a) If any recreational facilities or other facilities offered
by the developer and available to, or to be used by, unit owners are to
be leased or have club membership associated, the following statement in
conspicuous type shall be included: THERE IS A RECREATIONAL FACILITIES
LEASE ASSOCIATED WITH THIS CONDOMINIUM; or, THERE IS A CLUB MEMBERSHIP
ASSOCIATED WITH THIS CONDOMINIUM. There shall be a reference to the location
in the disclosure materials where the recreation lease or club membership
is described in detail.
(b) If it is mandatory that unit owners pay a fee, rent, dues,
or other charges under a recreational facilities lease or club membership
for the use of facilities, there shall be in conspicuous type the applicable
statement:
1. MEMBERSHIP IN THE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES CLUB IS MANDATORY
FOR UNIT OWNERS; or
2. UNIT OWNERS ARE REQUIRED, AS A CONDITION OF OWNERSHIP, TO
BE LESSEES UNDER THE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES LEASE; or
3. UNIT OWNERS ARE REQUIRED TO PAY THEIR SHARE OF THE COSTS AND
EXPENSES OF MAINTENANCE, MANAGEMENT, UPKEEP, REPLACEMENT, RENT, AND FEES
UNDER THE RECREATIONAL FACILITIES LEASE (OR THE OTHER INSTRUMENTS PROVIDING
THE FACILITIES); or
4. A similar statement of the nature of the organization or the
manner in which the use rights are created, and that unit owners are required
to pay.
Immediately following the applicable statement, the location in the
disclosure materials where the development is described in detail shall
be stated.
(c) If the developer, or any other person other than the unit
owners and other persons having use rights in the facilities, reserves,
or is entitled to receive, any rent, fee, or other payment for the use
of the facilities, then there shall be the following statement in conspicuous
type: THE UNIT OWNERS OR THE ASSOCIATION(S) MUST PAY RENT OR LAND USE FEES
FOR RECREATIONAL OR OTHER COMMONLY USED FACILITIES. Immediately following
this statement, the location in the disclosure materials where the rent
or land use fees are described in detail shall be stated.
(d) If, in any recreation format, whether leasehold, club, or
other, any person other than the association has the right to a lien on
the units to secure the payment of assessments, rent, or other exactions,
there shall appear a statement in conspicuous type in substantially the
following form:
1. THERE IS A LIEN OR LIEN RIGHT AGAINST EACH UNIT TO SECURE
THE PAYMENT OF RENT AND OTHER EXACTIONS UNDER THE RECREATION LEASE. THE
UNIT OWNER'S FAILURE TO MAKE THESE PAYMENTS MAY RESULT IN FORECLOSURE OF
THE LIEN; or
2. THERE IS A LIEN OR LIEN RIGHT AGAINST EACH UNIT TO SECURE
THE PAYMENT OF ASSESSMENTS OR OTHER EXACTIONS COMING DUE FOR THE USE, MAINTENANCE,
UPKEEP, OR REPAIR OF THE RECREATIONAL OR COMMONLY USED FACILITIES. THE
UNIT OWNER'S FAILURE TO MAKE THESE PAYMENTS MAY RESULT IN FORECLOSURE OF
THE LIEN.
Immediately following the applicable statement, the location in the
disclosure materials where the lien or lien right is described in detail
shall be stated.
(9) If the developer or any other person has the right to increase
or add to the recreational facilities at any time after the establishment
of the condominium whose unit owners have use rights therein, without the
consent of the unit owners or associations being required, there shall
appear a statement in conspicuous type in substantially the following form:
RECREATIONAL FACILITIES MAY BE EXPANDED OR ADDED WITHOUT CONSENT OF UNIT
OWNERS OR THE ASSOCIATION(S). Immediately following this statement, the
location in the disclosure materials where such reserved rights are described
shall be stated.
(10) A statement of whether the developer's plan includes a program
of leasing units rather than selling them, or leasing units and selling
them subject to such leases. If so, there shall be a description of the
plan, including the number and identification of the units and the provisions
and term of the proposed leases, and a statement in boldfaced type that:
THE UNITS MAY BE TRANSFERRED SUBJECT TO A LEASE.
(11) The arrangements for management of the association and maintenance
and operation of the condominium property and of other property that will
serve the unit owners of the condominium property, and a description of
the management contract and all other contracts for these purposes having
a term in excess of 1 year, including the following:
(a) The names of contracting parties.
(b) The term of the contract.
(c) The nature of the services included.
(d) The compensation, stated on a monthly and annual basis, and
provisions for increases in the compensation.
(e) A reference to the volumes and pages of the condominium documents
and of the exhibits containing copies of such contracts.
Copies of all described contracts shall be attached as exhibits. If
there is a contract for the management of the condominium property, then
a statement in conspicuous type in substantially the following form shall
appear, identifying the proposed or existing contract manager: THERE IS
(IS TO BE) A CONTRACT FOR THE MANAGEMENT OF THE CONDOMINIUM PROPERTY WITH
(NAME OF THE CONTRACT MANAGER). Immediately following this statement, the
location in the disclosure materials of the contract for management of
the condominium property shall be stated.
(12) If the developer or any other person or persons other than
the unit owners has the right to retain control of the board of administration
of the association for a period of time which can exceed 1 year after the
closing of the sale of a majority of the units in that condominium to persons
other than successors or alternate developers, then a statement in conspicuous
type in substantially the following form shall be included: THE DEVELOPER
(OR OTHER PERSON) HAS THE RIGHT TO RETAIN CONTROL OF THE ASSOCIATION AFTER
A MAJORITY OF THE UNITS HAVE BEEN SOLD. Immediately following this statement,
the location in the disclosure materials where this right to control is
described in detail shall be stated.
(13) If there are any restrictions upon the sale, transfer, conveyance,
or leasing of a unit, then a statement in conspicuous type in substantially
the following form shall be included: THE SALE, LEASE, OR TRANSFER OF UNITS
IS RESTRICTED OR CONTROLLED. Immediately following this statement, the
location in the disclosure materials where the restriction, limitation,
or control on the sale, lease, or transfer of units is described in detail
shall be stated.
(14) If the condominium is part of a phase project, the following
information shall be stated:
(a) A statement in conspicuous type in substantially the following
form: THIS IS A PHASE CONDOMINIUM. ADDITIONAL LAND AND UNITS MAY BE ADDED
TO THIS CONDOMINIUM. Immediately following this statement, the location
in the disclosure materials where the phasing is described shall be stated.
(b) A summary of the provisions of the declaration which provide
for the phasing.
(c) A statement as to whether or not residential buildings and
units which are added to the condominium may be substantially different
from the residential buildings and units originally in the condominium.
If the added residential buildings and units may be substantially different,
there shall be a general description of the extent to which such added
residential buildings and units may differ, and a statement in conspicuous
type in substantially the following form shall be included: BUILDINGS AND
UNITS WHICH ARE ADDED TO THE CONDOMINIUM MAY BE SUBSTANTIALLY DIFFERENT
FROM THE OTHER BUILDINGS AND UNITS IN THE CONDOMINIUM. Immediately following
this statement, the location in the disclosure materials where the extent
to which added residential buildings and units may substantially differ
is described shall be stated.
(d) A statement of the maximum number of buildings containing
units, the maximum and minimum numbers of units in each building, the maximum
number of units, and the minimum and maximum square footage of the units
that may be contained within each parcel of land which may be added to
the condominium.
(15) If a condominium created on or after July 1, 2000, is or may
become part of a multicondominium, the following information must be provided:
(a) A statement in conspicuous type in substantially the following
form: THIS CONDOMINIUM IS (MAY BE) PART OF A MULTICONDOMINIUM DEVELOPMENT IN
WHICH OTHER CONDOMINIUMS WILL (MAY) BE OPERATED BY THE SAME ASSOCIATION.
Immediately following this statement, the location in the prospectus or offering
circular and its exhibits where the multicondominium aspects of the offering are
described must be stated.
(b) A summary of the provisions in the declaration, articles of
incorporation, and bylaws which establish and provide for the operation of the
multicondominium, including a statement as to whether unit owners in the
condominium will have the right to use recreational or other facilities located
or planned to be located in other condominiums operated by the same association,
and the manner of sharing the common expenses related to such facilities.
(c) A statement of the minimum and maximum number of condominiums,
and the minimum and maximum number of units in each of those condominiums, which
will or may be operated by the association, and the latest date by which the
exact number will be finally determined.
(d) A statement as to whether any of the condominiums in the
multicondominium may include units intended to be used for nonresidential
purposes and the purpose or purposes permitted for such use.
(e) A general description of the location and approximate acreage
of any land on which any additional condominiums to be operated by the
association may be located.
(16) If the condominium is created by conversion of existing
improvements, the following information shall be stated:
(a) The information required by s. 718.616.
(b) A caveat that there are no express warranties unless they are
stated in writing by the developer.
(17) A summary of the restrictions, if any, to be imposed on units
concerning the use of any of the condominium property, including statements as
to whether there are restrictions upon children and pets, and reference to the
volumes and pages of the condominium documents where such restrictions are
found, or if such restrictions are contained elsewhere, then a copy of the
documents containing the restrictions shall be attached as an exhibit.
(18) If there is any land that is offered by the developer for use
by the unit owners and that is neither owned by them nor leased to them, the
association, or any entity controlled by unit owners and other persons having
the use rights to such land, a statement shall be made as to how such land will
serve the condominium. If any part of such land will serve the condominium, the
statement shall describe the land and the nature and term of service, and the
declaration or other instrument creating such servitude shall be included as an
exhibit.
(19) The manner in which utility and other services, including,
but not limited to, sewage and waste disposal, water supply, and storm drainage,
will be provided and the person or entity furnishing them.
(20) An explanation of the manner in which the apportionment of
common expenses and ownership of the common elements has been determined.
(21) An estimated operating budget for the condominium and the
association, and a schedule of the unit owner's expenses shall be attached as an
exhibit and shall contain the following information:
(a) The estimated monthly and annual expenses of the condominium
and the association that are collected from unit owners by assessments.
(b) The estimated monthly and annual expenses of each unit owner
for a unit, other than common expenses paid by all unit owners, payable by the
unit owner to persons or entities other than the association, as well as to the
association, including fees assessed pursuant to s. 718.113(1) for maintenance
of limited common elements where such costs are shared only by those entitled to
use the limited common element, and the total estimated monthly and annual
expense. There may be excluded from this estimate expenses which are not
provided for or contemplated by the condominium documents, including, but not
limited to, the costs of private telephone; maintenance of the interior of
condominium units, which is not the obligation of the association; maid or
janitorial services privately contracted for by the unit owners; utility bills
billed directly to each unit owner for utility services to his or her unit;
insurance premiums other than those incurred for policies obtained by the
condominium; and similar personal expenses of the unit owner. A unit owner's
estimated payments for assessments shall also be stated in the estimated amounts
for the times when they will be due.
(c) The estimated items of expenses of the condominium and the
association, except as excluded under paragraph (b), including, but not limited
to, the following items, which shall be stated either as an association expense
collectible by assessments or as unit owners' expenses payable to persons other
than the association:
1. Expenses for the association and condominium:
a. Administration
of the association.
b. Management
fees.
c. Maintenance.
d. Rent
for recreational and other commonly used facilities.
e. Taxes
upon association property.
f. Taxes
upon leased areas.
g. Insurance.
h. Security
provisions.
i. Other
expenses.
j. Operating
capital.
k. Reserves.
l. Fees
payable to the division.
2. Expenses
for a unit owner:
a. Rent
for the unit, if subject to a lease.
b. Rent
payable by the unit owner directly to the lessor or agent under any recreational
lease or lease for the use of commonly used facilities, which use and payment is
a mandatory condition of ownership and is not included in the common expense or
assessments for common maintenance paid by the unit owners to the association.
(d) The estimated amounts shall be stated for a period of at least
12 months and may distinguish between the period prior to the time unit owners
other than the developer elect a majority of the board of administration and the
period after that date.
(22) A schedule of estimated closing expenses to be paid by a
buyer or lessee of a unit and a statement of whether title opinion or title
insurance policy is available to the buyer and, if so, at whose expense.
(23) The identity of the developer and the chief operating officer
or principal directing the creation and sale of the condominium and a statement
of its and his or her experience in this field.
(24) Copies of the following, to the extent they are applicable,
shall be included as exhibits:
(a) The declaration of condominium, or the proposed declaration if
the declaration has not been recorded.
(b) The articles of incorporation creating the association.
(c) The bylaws of the association.
(d) The ground lease or other underlying lease of the condominium.
(e) The management agreement and all maintenance and other
contracts for management of the association and operation of the condominium and
facilities used by the unit owners having a service term in excess of 1 year.
(f) The estimated operating budget for the condominium and the
required schedule of unit owners' expenses.
(g) A copy of the floor plan of the unit and the plot plan showing
the location of the residential buildings and the recreation and other common
areas.
(h) The lease of recreational and other facilities that will be
used only by unit owners of the subject condominium.
(i) The lease of facilities used by owners and others.
(j) The form of unit lease, if the offer is of a leasehold.
(k) A declaration of servitude of properties serving the
condominium but not owned by unit owners or leased to them or the association.
(l) The statement of condition of the existing building or
buildings, if the offering is of units in an operation being converted to
condominium ownership.
(m) The statement of inspection for termite damage and treatment
of the existing improvements, if the condominium is a conversion.
(n) The form of agreement for sale or lease of units.
(o) A copy of the agreement for escrow of payments made to the
developer prior to closing.
(p) A copy of the documents containing any restrictions on use of
the property required by subsection (17).
(25) Any prospectus or offering circular complying, prior to the
effective date of this act, with the provisions of former ss. 711.69 and 711.802
may continue to be used without amendment or may be amended to comply with the
provisions of this chapter.
(26) A brief narrative description of the location and effect of
all existing and intended easements located or to be located on the condominium
property other than those described in the declaration.
(27) If the developer is required by state or local authorities to
obtain acceptance or approval of any dock or marina facilities intended to serve
the condominium, a copy of any such acceptance or approval acquired by the time
of filing with the division under s. 718.502(1) or a statement that such
acceptance or approval has not been acquired or received.
(28) Evidence demonstrating that the developer has an ownership,
leasehold, or contractual interest in the land upon which the condominium is to
be developed.
718.505
Good faith effort to comply.--
If a developer, in good faith, has attempted to comply with the requirements
of this part, and if, in fact, he or she has substantially complied with
the disclosure requirements of this chapter, nonmaterial errors or omissions
in the disclosure materials shall not be actionable.
718.506
Publication of false and misleading information.--
(1) Any person who, in reasonable reliance upon any material
statement or information that is false or misleading and published by or
under authority from the developer in advertising and promotional materials,
including, but not limited to, a prospectus, the items required as exhibits
to a prospectus, brochures, and newspaper advertising, pays anything of
value toward the purchase of a condominium parcel located in this state
shall have a cause of action to rescind the contract or collect damages
from the developer for his or her loss prior to the closing of the transaction.
After the closing of the transaction, the purchaser shall have a cause
of action against the developer for damages under this section from the
time of closing until 1 year after the date upon which the last of the
events described in paragraphs (a) through (d) shall occur:
(a) The closing of the transaction;
(b) The first issuance by the applicable governmental authority
of a certificate of occupancy or other evidence of sufficient completion
of construction of the building containing the unit to allow lawful occupancy
of the unit. In counties or municipalities in which certificates of occupancy
or other evidences of completion sufficient to allow lawful occupancy are
not customarily issued, for the purpose of this section, evidence of lawful
occupancy shall be deemed to be given or issued upon the date that such
lawful occupancy of the unit may first be allowed under prevailing applicable
laws, ordinances, or statutes;
(c) The completion by the developer of the common elements and
such recreational facilities, whether or not the same are common elements,
which the developer is obligated to complete or provide under the terms
of the written contract or written agreement for purchase or lease of the
unit; or
(d) In the event there shall not be a written contract or agreement
for sale or lease of the unit, then the completion by the developer of
the common elements and such recreational facilities, whether or not the
same are common elements, which the developer would be obligated to complete
under any rule of law applicable to the developer's obligation.
Under no circumstances shall a cause of action created or recognized
under this section survive for a period of more than 5 years after the
closing of the transaction.
(2) In any action for relief under this section or under s. 718.503,
the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney's
fees.
718.507
Zoning and building laws, ordinances, and regulations.--
All laws, ordinances, and regulations concerning buildings or zoning
shall be construed and applied with reference to the nature and use of
such property, without regard to the form of ownership. No law, ordinance,
or regulation shall establish any requirement concerning the use, location,
placement, or construction of buildings or other improvements which are,
or may thereafter be, subjected to the condominium form of ownership, unless
such requirement shall be equally applicable to all buildings and improvements
of the same kind not then, or thereafter to be, subjected to the condominium
form of ownership. This section does not apply if the owner in fee of any
land enters into and records a covenant that existing improvements or improvements
to be constructed shall not be converted to the condominium form of residential
ownership prior to 5 years after the later of the date of the covenant
or completion date of the improvements. Such covenant shall be entered
into with the governing body of the municipality in which the land is located
or, if the land is not located in a municipality, with the governing body
of the county in which the land is located.
718.508
Regulation by Division of Hotels and Restaurants.--
In addition to the authority, regulation, or control exercised by the
Division of Florida Land Sales, Condominiums, and Mobile Homes pursuant
to this act with respect to condominiums, buildings included in a condominium
property shall be subject to the authority, regulation, or control of the
Division of Hotels and Restaurants of the Department of Business and Professional
Regulation, to the extent provided for in chapter 399.
718.509
Division of Florida Land Sales, Condominiums, and Mobile Homes Trust Fund.
All funds collected by the division and any amount paid
for a fee or penalty under this chapter shall be deposited in the State
Treasury to the credit of the Division of Florida Land Sales, Condominiums,
and Mobile Homes Trust Fund created by s. 498.019. |