Serving Condominiums, Cooperatives and Homeowner Associations

The Official Publication of the Community Associations Institute - Southeast Florida Chapter

Serving Condominiums, Cooperatives and Homeowner Associations

Thank You Best Roofing, and all ofour golf event sponsors, for aanother successful tournament!Check out our photos in this issue

Also In This Issue…� Before Disaster Strikes�Why Should I Acquire My PCAM?� Electric Cars, Charging Stations and

Condos� Protect Your Waterbodies� Save Energy Dollars When Away From

Home� Photos Galore! Covering Golf, Mixers,

Sponsor Dinner & our Florida Keys Event

July 2019

Images from the 2019 Golf TournamentTournament Title Sponsor: Best Roofing

LIVINGJuly 2019 Volume I, Issue 28

CHAPTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTORJill ProiettiCAI SOUTHEAST FLORIDA BOARD OF DIRECTORSVishnu Sharma, CPA (President)Kathy Naughton, Banking (Vice-President)Steve G. Mason, PCAM (President-Elect)Andrew Dyke, Accounting (Treasurer)Rebecca Prieto, Banking (Secretary)Luis Alicea, BankingMichael Bender, Esq.Marcie Gershoni, Cable & BroadbandJames Gonzalez, LCAM, CollectionsEddy Pereira, Jr., M.A., PCAMHoward Perl, Esq.

COMMITTEE CHAIRSEvents/Education CommitteeEddy Pereira, Jr., M.A., PCAM; Marcie GershoniElection CommitteeRussell M. Robbins, Esq.Florida Legislative Alliance (F.L.A.)Michael Bender, Esq.; Mary Macfie; Lisa Magill, Esq.Golf CommitteeSteve Mason, PCAMMagazine CommitteeHoward Perl, Esq.; Vishnu Sharma, CPAMembership CommitteeMarcie Gershoni; Russell M. Robbins, Esq.Miami-Dade CommitteeEddy Pereira, Jr., M.A., PCAM; Rebecca PrietoBroward CommitteeLisa Elkan; James Gonzalez, LCAM; Kathy NaughtonScholarship CommitteeSally Mevers, CPI; Michael Bender, Esq.; Vishnu Sharma, CPATrade Show CommitteeHoward J. Perl, Esq., James Gonzalez, LCAM, Sally Mevers,Luis Alicea

CORRESPONDENCE (CHAPTER & MAGAZINE)[Sales, Marketing, Advertising, Creative, Subscriptions]JILL PROIETTICAI SE FLORIDA CHAPTER304 Indian TraceSuite 538Weston, Florida, 33326954-816-0661Email: ced@cai-seflorida.orgWeb: cai-seflorida.org

‘Community Living’ is published quarterly by the SoutheastFlorida Chapter of the Community Associations Institute,304 Indian Trace, Ste. 538, Weston , FL. 33326

POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to ‘CommunityLiving’ c/o CAI-SEFL,

304 Indian Trace, Ste. 538, Weston , FL. 33326

This publication attempts to provide CAI’s membership withinformation on community association issues. Authors areresponsible for developing the logic of their expressed opinionsand for the authenticity of all presented facts in articles. CAIdoes not endorse or approve statements of fact or opinionmade in these pages and assumes no responsibility for thosestatements. This publication is issued with the understandingthat the publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accountingor other professional services. If legal advice or other expertassistance is required, the services of a competent professionalshould be sought.

Design by Jeff Solomon’s Support Depot, 954-501-9797

Community Associations Institute (CAI) is a national organization dedicated to fosteringvibrant, competent, harmonious community associations. For more than 40 years, CAI hasbeen the leader in providing education and resources to the volunteer homeowners whogovern community associations and the professionals who support them. Our membersinclude community association volunteer leaders, professional managers, communitymanagement firms, and other professionals and companies that provide products andservices to associations. Our local chapter serves over 400 members with annual eventsincluding Trade Show & Expo, Golf Tournament, CAM & Board Member Education eventsand so much more.

READER COMMENTS & ARTICLES ARE WELCOMEColumns and ideas from all our members are always welcome. Send submissions inMicrosoft Word format to: ced@cai-seflorida.org

Articles appearing in Community Living reflect the author’s opinion and not necessarily thatof CAI. Acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the product orservice.

National on the web: www.caionline.orgSE FL Chapter on the web: www.cai-seflorida.org

Follow us on social media!Find us as: Community Associations Institute - Southeast Florida Chapter

Aug. 8: m-100 course, Essentials of Community Association Management, offered in Ft. Lauderdale. Aug. 8-10. Visit CAIOnline.org

Aug. 23: CAI-SEFL Broward Leadership Expo. Sunrise Civic Center. Register via CAI-SEFlorida.org/Events. Free registration for all LCAMs and Homeowner Leaders.

Aug. 27: Hot Topics Breakfast*- Monthly Broward Breakfast Meeting 1-hour CE credit after breakfast. CAI CAM Members eat FREE!

Aug. 28: Networker Mixer at Bahama Breeze in Miami. Register via CAI-SEFLorida.org/Events. CAI CA Members FREE!

Sept. 12: CAI-SEFL Broward Leadership Expo. Kovens Conference Center FIU Campus. Register via CAI-SEFlorida.org/Events. Free registration for all LCAMs and Homeowner Leaders.

Sept. 19: Business Partners Essentials Course in Ft. Lauderdale. Morton’s Steakhouse. Contact CED Jill Proietti: CED@CAI-SEFlorida.org.

Sept. 24: Hot Topics Breakfast*- Monthly Broward Breakfast Meeting 1-hour CE credit after breakfast. CAI CAM Members eat FREE!

Oct. 29: Hot Topics Breakfast*- Monthly Broward Breakfast Meeting 1-hour CE credit after breakfast. CAI CAM Members eat FREE!

Nov 26: Hot Topics Breakfast*- Monthly Broward Breakfast Meeting 1-hour CE credit after breakfast. CAI CAM Members eat FREE!

Dec. 5: Holiday Gala & Casino Night- Additional details to be announced! To take place at The Sonesta Ft. Lauderdale.

*Check cai-seflorida.org for specifics of each “HOT TOPIC-HOT BREAKFAST.”Registration and payment links also provided online! All events listed above aresubject to change.

From the Desk of the Executive DirectorJill Proietti, CED, ced@cai-seflorida.org

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Greetings! We are halfwaythrough 2019; where has thetime gone? We have been

very busy the first six months andare planning great things in thesecond half of the year.

Our first big event of the year, ourAnnual Golf Tournament sponsored by Best Roofing,was an astounding success. Our charity this year wasF.I.S.P., Florida Initiative for Suicide Prevention, avery worthwhile cause. We presented them a checkfor over $3,000. Once again, we maxed-out with 144golfers!

Our Annual Sponsor Appreciation Dinner was heldThursday, April 26, and our final time at the beautifulPier 66 Pier Top room which is closing for majorrenovations. We will miss that outstanding location.Please support our Chapter Sponsors by using theirservices and showing them how important they are tous all.

We finally made it to the Keys in June! What afantastic and informative day it was at the IslanderResort in Islamorada. We had a full day of education,a panel of experts pertaining to HurricanePreparedness, and ended the day with a NetworkingReception for our Business Partners, LCAMs andBoard Members in attendance. We hope to make thisan annual event!

We are changing things up a bit from our traditionaltrade show/expo, presenting two Leadership Expos,one in Broward and one in Miami-Dade, and similar toour Keys event. They will be a smaller, table top styleexpo, with an emphasis on Legislation. Everythingyou wanted to learn about our State Legislation andmore! It will also be one of the first opportunities totake the 2020 Legal Update. Sponsorships are alsoavailable. Check out our website – CAI_SEFlorida.orgfor further details…or call me!

This year’s Holiday Gala will be held Thursday,December 5, at the gorgeous Sonesta FortLauderdale. The event will include our annual CasinoNight along with another surprise. Please make sureyou can join us as we celebrate the holidays with ourfriends and colleagues!

We always encourage suggestions and participationon our committees so that we may bring you all theprograms you, as members, are interested in. Pleasefeel free to email me at ced@cai-seflorida.org or call954-816-0661. Please check our website regularly forall of our upcoming events; you wouldn’t want to missanything! I look forward to seeing you at our next event!

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National: caionline.org Chapter: cai-seflorida.org

We welcome our new (and renewed/re-joined) Chapter Members!February 16, 2019 to July 16, 2019. New members highlighted in bold.See you at our next event!

Business PartnersADT SecurityAlloy HomeAmicon ManagementAPGAcivilAsphalt Restoration TechnologyAtlantic Mutual InsuranceAxiom ResourcesBall Janik, LLPBank OZKBasulto Robbins & AssociatesBaxter RestorationBeach ContractingBoral RoofingBurg Simpson Eldredge Hersh JardinePCCambridge Security Services, Inc.Coit Cleaning & Restoration ofSouth FloridaCommercial Energy SpecialistsCondoCertsCrown Roofing, LLCDelta Engineering & Inspection, Inc.Eisinger, Brown, Lewis & Frankel, P.A.Envera SystemsExecutive National BankEZ General & Roofing ContractorFederal Maintenance, Inc.First-Citizens Bank & Trust Co

Gerstle, Rosen, & Associates, P.A.Grace Roofing & Sheet Metal Enter-priseJ.R. Frazer Inc.John Paul Arcia, PAKastle SystemsLaw Offices of Lee H. Ballard, P. A.LM Funding, LLCMack, Mack & Waltz Insurance GroupNick Felicione Inc Pest ControlNordis TechnologiesNV5Paul Davis Of The GablesPritts, Inc.Randall K. Roger & AssociatesRevoPayServproSharma & Associates, Inc.Siegfried, Rivera, Hyman, Lerner, DeLa Torre, Mars, & Sobel, P.A.SouthData, Inc.Standpoint, LLCStevens & Goldwyn, P.A.The Paving LadyThe Water Restoration GroupUnited Fire Protection, Inc.UpLogs, Inc.WelcomeLink

Community Association Managers

If you are not receiving CAI emails and news, please log in to your National account to confirm all of your contact information.

Note: existing companies and organizations may appear in bold (as new) if they added new individual members through the company, as BusinessPartner Members. In addition, existing individual members may appear as ‘new’ if he/she rejoined while changing membership type.

Ivo AvalosDaniel CortezAmy D. DeanerPatricia GreenKris Gustinger-carnahanBetty JordanDania GarciaAnderson Louis-jeuneFelicia Jeannatte ManascoRoxana PerezAndrew RandMarcia E RobertsonMay M. RodriguezSusan RussoJean-Clement SamsonAdam SmalleyPatricia VallejoWilliam WebsterMartin WeinsteinYul DeveauxGladyelit LopezJulio MendezShaondria RainesUriel UribeKelly ZuluagaTimothy HaakJessica Ruiz, CMCABrian FahrerDiana Kay QuigleyAaron M DonnellyMario FernandezNestor J HermidaBenjamin McConnellDaleik A. VaughnAndrew LesterSharon McknightMarlene MenendezDaniel RuizSean P ArenaJohn SimsYlexander BalujaWalker BurttschellJanette GiddingsGeorge HallGen MoxieEva PastorMaria RentasErik LevinKristopher PowellYaidyt HernandezCaroline Pinsky Kristina QuirosKim Filipe SantosLinda Johnson-LougedoDaniel DeVitoDenise AlvarezLeslie AlvarezCelso Barbosa

Carol BensLorraine BodekMark BraunDarlene CookBoris DarchyMargaret DelgadoErnest DiehlAracely EucedaDoretta HenannRene A. HerreraLeigh HoffmanMarcy L. KravitDiane MatusMary Lou MetzgerDiana MontesJohnny PaganElizabeth PerezBarry RosenthalAndrew SurdovelSharon FayDonald L. WestbrookMaria ZapataMercedes VildosolaLisa GoldmanAnna MurilloHoward CarterTimothy DetwilerMitchell KraussLisa SingerJonathan B. LouisCarolyn PadfieldSteve G. MasonStacie WarrenJeffrey A. UlmJane BrockDeborah DelVecchioBrian StreetJenna PerkinsBrenda AdkinsRebie CastilloSteve CaballeroEvelyn JasperJoseph SnellLidiala De La RosaFrank A. BlancoMichelle Van HookDagmara RodriguezPaul SanchezHedy MaurerPauline GordonLisbeth BustinLurlaine GonzalezRobert MillerFabiola BensWestley TaylorTerry ShepherdBruce Bandler

Community Association VolunteersDiana KukaIgli KukaHarry MarcellinoGiussepe MarciglianoLeslie J BackusVernon BaileyRobin BartlemanJose LaureanoScott Lowen

Susan YoungChad L PankratzMichael J PoormanCathy KingDavid L. KinneyDonna ZwebenEdye AbrahamCesar Delanoval

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Community Management CompaniesEBMG LLCNOVUS Realty LLC

Trident ManagementAllied Property Group, Inc.

LEADERSHIPEXPOS

BROWARD COUNTYLEADERSHIP EXPO

MIAMI-DADE COUNTYLEADERSHIP EXPO

Friday, August 23, 2019Sunrise Civic Center12 Noon - 7:30 P.M.

Thursday, September 12, 2019Kovens Conference Center FIU

12 Noon - 7:30 P.M.

Free for all LCAMs and Homeowner Leaders!Great Education with CEU credits available!Excellent Networking Opportunities!

Sunrise Civic Center Kovens Conference Center

Leadership Expo Itineraries:� Noon:-1:00pm: Registration & Expo Open

� 1:00pm-2:00pm: "What is F.L.A." HowHomeowners & CAMs can Impact Legislation. 1CEU in HR; presented by Travis Moore, PublicAffairs Consultant

� 2:00pm-4:00pm: "Legal Update"

� 4:30pm-5:30pm: Keynote; "Ask the Experts HotTopics Panel". 1 CEU credit in IFM

� 5:30pm-7:30pm: Reception: Social andNetworking

At 3:00pm there will be a Coffee & Cookie Break inBroward and a Cafecito & Cookie Break in Miami.

RSVP for each via…

CAI-SEFlorida.org

CED: Jill Proietti | 954-816-0661Email: CED@CAI-SEFlorida.org

Online: CAI-SEFlorida.org

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� Does it show your commitment in achieving thehighest education level available for managers?

� Does it teach you new “outside the box” ways ofmanaging communities?

� Does it give you a sense of accomplishment?� Is it to meet and develop new relationships?� Can it expand your opportunities for career

growth?

ALL OF THE ABOVE AND MORE!!

More than 60 million Americans live in an estimated315,000 association-governed communities.There are now over 42,000 CAI members whichinclude community association volunteer leaders,managers, management companies andbusinesses that provide products and services tothese communities. However, only an elite group ofmanagers have taken the path on becoming aProfessional Community Association Manager(PCAM®).As a community association manager, the mostimportant thing you can do to increase your earningpotential and accelerate your career is to obtaintraining and credentials from CAI’s ProfessionalManagement Development Program (PMDP).Through this program, CAI provides the mostcomprehensive, expert education courses forcommunity managers seeking to increase theirskills, knowledge and job opportunities. Theinevitable goal is obtaining the PCAM® designation.Join the elite group of community associationmanagers who have earned the (PCAM®)credential. Earlier this year, the number of PCAM’shit 3000 which marked a new milestone for CAI.Since then, several more PCAM credentials were

awarded and those managers were honored at thisyears CAI National Conference this past May inOrlando, FL. These managers now join the worldwidegroup who have earned the highest level ofprofessional recognition in the community associationfield.

SO WHAT DOES THAT MEAN FOR YOUAND YOUR CAREER ?

The path in obtaining the PCAM® credential is a long,expensive, tedious, challenging and difficult pathwhich will requires the utmost commitment to join thiselite group. Through the process, you will learn newways on how associations are being managed in otherparts of the country rather than your own local State.In attending several PMDP courses required, you willlearn and sometimes have a refresher of manysubject matters in the community management field.For me, I enjoyed meeting professionals in my fieldfrom other parts of the country, but mostly from otherparts of the world. Attending these courses allowedme to meet professionals from as far West toCalifornia, as far North into Canada and halfwayaround the world from Dubai. To this day, I keep incontact with many of those managers and instructorsI’ve met throughout the process.Going through the process of obtaining my PCAM haschallenged me to a point in which made me respectand appreciate all those before even more so than Ialready did. Understanding what has to be done hasopened my mind to better understand both thebusiness aspect of the industry and reminded me inthe benefits of being committed to something thisspecial. There is no better sense of accomplishmentof your commitment than walking across that stage atthe CAI National Conference and hearing your namecalled out and one of the newest PCAM’s inducted.

Continued on page 14

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Before Disaster Strikes-Doug Weinstein, VP Project Management Group, Inc. (Akam Living Services, Inc.)

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With the 2019 hurricane season in fullswing, it is incumbent on all associationsto be adequately prepared for tropical

storms and category hurricanes. In fact, protectingthe association’s structures is required under theterms of your property and hurricane insurancepolicies. Failure to take preventative measurescan lead to a carrier attempting to deny coverage.The less damage caused by proper planning willresult in potentially less capital work needing to bedone which translates into fewer assessments toyour members.How do we protect ourselves? The main damageto a structure and its mechanical components arecaused primarily by wind and storm surge.Protecting your site is a year-round occupation. Ifyou see a potential issue, remedy it immediately.This can include such items as deterioration of thebuilding’s exterior envelope, improperly securedrooftop mechanical equipment and overgrownlandscaping. We also recommend that a pre-storm photographic record be kept of key areasand equipment as well as post storm damagephotos/videos. This record is very helpful as manytimes your insurance carrier will not be able tohave their inspector/adjuster on-site before youneed to start restoration. It will also help minimizedisputes during the claims process.A facade with stucco cracking, spalled concrete,open post tension pockets, loose railings anddeteriorated perimeter sealants is just asking forproblems should even a category 1 hurricane fallupon us. Visually monitor your property on acontinual basis. Many of these items are easilyseen even to the untrained eye. Left uncorrected

they can lead to structural damage during ahurricane.A good portion of your building’s mechanicalequipment, especially in mid- and high-riseassociations are located on roof areas and areextremely susceptible to wind damage during ahurricane. Ensure that all items such as coolingtowers, ventilation fans and even your residentsindividual AC compressor units are securedproperly, and the anchoring method is notdeteriorated. Also your actual roofing systemshould be receiving regular inspections/repairs bya professional roofing contractor. A delaminatedroofing system is just asking for trouble during ahurricane. Ascertain that all ejector and sumppumps are operating correctly. Ensure that yourroof top mechanical rooms are as watertight aspossible such as elevator motor rooms. Variouswater barriers are available to protect these areasas well as areas below grade such as mechanicalrooms located in garages that are susceptible toflooding.Even if your association has done all of the above,your job is not finished. All associations shouldhave a detailed plan of action should a hurricanewarning/watch or a mandatory evacuation orderbe given. Residents should be reminded thatmandatory means mandatory. Riding out even acategory one event can be fool hardy and lifethreatening. Remember that emergency servicesand first responders will not answer calls when thesustained wind speeds exceed 40 miles per hour.Advise residents that during the hurricane certainbuilding services will not operate.

Continued on page 23

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Continued from page 12HOW CAN THE PCAM HELP MYCAREER ? “Professionals who earn CAI credentials maximizethe value they can provide to their communityassociation clients,” said CAI Chief ExecutiveOfficer Thomas M. Skiba, CAE. “Not only havethese professionals demonstrated a personalcommitment to self-improvement, but they havealso elevated their practical knowledge andexpertise. That’s what all community associationsneed, and what board members and residentsdeserve.”State legislatures occasionally have sought—inappropriately—to license community associationmanagers as real estate brokers or propertymanagers. There are actually a handful of Statesthat have State licensing requirements. Butcommunity association management is a specificprofession requiring unique skills. By definition,property managers perform facilities managementand leasing services. Association managers arehired to work with volunteer boards of directors toenhance, preserve and protect communities. Whilelicensure of real estate brokers, agents or propertymanagers protects consumers in salestransactions, it does not protect consumers—homeowners—in the ongoing management andoperation of their communitiesWhile CAI opposes the regulation of communityassociation managers as real estate brokers,agents or property managers, we encourage thecertification of community association managers. In

states that propose mandatory regulation ofthese professionals, such as Florida, CAIsupports a regulatory system that incorporatesadequate protections for homeowners,mandatory education and testing onfundamental management knowledge,standards of conduct, continuing education andappropriate insurance requirements.Since obtaining my PCAM credential, I’velearned quickly that many communities andmanagement companies often seek outmanagers with the PCAM credential foremployment. The PCAM has shown me manydoors of opportunity as there have been noshortage of phone calls on an annual basis.As a globally recognized credential, I have alarge comfort feeling that the PCAM can assistme in employment opportunities anywhere in thecountry should my family decide to move out ofSouth Florida. We have actually talked aboutthat possibility and it brings a level of comfortthat I can relocate knowing there is demandpreference of PCAM’s in various markets in thecountry.In closing, for me there is nothing more importantthan the people I’ve met during the process ofobtaining my PCAM and the businessrelationships I’ve development. There are manythat I am happy to call my friends. There isalways a special spot in my heart for my casestudy classmates and my facilitator, Mr. StephenBupp. Thank you!

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Bashor & Legendre, LLPAndrew Dyke, CPA, CAM: 954-952-0385Email: adyke@blcpas.com

Best RoofingMaria Guerdes: 954-328-1275Email: MGuerdes@bestroofing.net

Super RestorationLeeyen Sieza: 305-233-0500Email: LS@SuperRestoration.com

Water Restoration GroupMonica Martinez305-661-2533

Angius & Terry, LLPLaurie Shrader: 305-239-8877Email: lshrader@angius-terry.com

Association Reserves, FL. LLCWill Simons, RS: 954-210-7925Email: wsimons@reservestudy.com

BB&T Association ServicesHenry Campos: 786-514-3030Hcampos@BbandT.com

Basulto Robbins & Associates, LLPRussell M. Robbins, Esq.: 305-722-8900Email: rrobbins@brlawyers.com

BeckerHoward Perl, Esq.: 954-364-6054Email: HPerl@beckerlawyers.com

BuildingLinkRichard Worth: 212-501-7117, ext. 535Email: Richard@BuildingLink.com

The Castle GroupJordan Goldman: 954-660-1866Email: jgoldman@castlegroup.com

Centennial BankKathy Naughton: 954-203-1285Email: knaughton@my100bank.com

Center State BankPhone: 954-708-5405Myrna Meza: mmeza@centerstatebank.com orTerri Russo: trusso@centerstatebank.com

The Falcon GroupWilliam Pyznar: 305-663-1970Email: Wpyznar@thefalcongroup.us

DIAMOND

PLATINUM

GOLD MGMT. COMPANY

MMeet Our Sponsors

Kaye, Bender, Rembaum Attorneys at LawMichael Bender, Esq.: 954-928-0680Email: mbender@KBRlegal.com

Mutual of Omaha Association BankingLuis Alicea: 786-273-5197Email: Luis.Alicea@mutualofomahabank.com

Popular Association BankingRebecca Prieto: 305-206-0170 or 786-953-1221Email: rprieto@bpop.com

Sherwin WilliamsRudy Silva: 954-732-7948Rodolfo.J.Silva@Sherwin.com

Siegfried | RiveraStephanie Bowman: 305-442-3334, ext. 324Sbowman@siegfriedrivera.com

S�Litude Lake ManagementTracy Fleming: 954-587-8777Email: info@solitudelake.com

U.S. Century BankRick Alfonso: 305-715-5181Email: Rick.Alfonso@uscentury.com

Acentria Insurance: 866-374-5084Sally Mevers: Sally.Mevers@acentria.comJorge Pena: Jorge.Pena@acentria.comJackie Pena: Jackie.Pena@acentria.com

Alliance Association BankLisa Elkan, VP561-212-2091Email: lelkan@allianceassociationbank.com

PPG PaintsVictor Echevarria: 305-407-5102Email: echevarria@ppgpaints.com

Sharma & AssociatesVishnu Sharma: 954-284-3080Email: vsharma@sharmaassociates.net

Specialized Pipe TechnologiesRonald D. Giles: 561-602-8660Email: ronaldg@sptplumbing.com

Union Bank HOA Services / SmartStreetTracy Stephens: 678-405-1759Email: Tracy.Stephens@unionbank.com

REACH THEDECISION-MAKERS FASTER!

Become aChapter Sponsor

Network and Promote:

Education!

Networking Mixers & Events!

Trade Show!

Visit us at cai-seflorida.org tolearn more!

Akam On-Site, Inc.Regan Marock: 954-863-2526Email: rmarock@akam.com

KW Property Management & ConsultingSandy Bennett: 305-476-9188Email: sbennett@kwpmc.com

Vesta Property ServicesBarbara Sanbria: 305-552-7855Email: bsanbria@vestapropertyservices.com

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While gasoline powered vehicles are stilldominant on Florida’s roads, the ever-growingpresence of electric vehicles cannot be

ignored. The number of electric vehicles on ourhighways and streets continue to climb as they becomemore and more affordable. As consumers continue toembrace a greener lifestyle, Florida’s lawmakers havepaved the way for condominium unit owners’ need tohave access to electric vehicle charging stations.Effective July 1, 2018, new legislation, section718.113(8) of the Florida Statutes, became effectivewhich facilitates a unit owner’s ability to install and usean electric vehicle charging station within the unitowner’s limited common element parking space.This new legislation prohibits the condominiumassociation’s board of directors and a declaration ofcondominium provision or other restrictive covenantsfrom prohibiting (or being enforced to prohibit) any unitowner from installing an electric vehicle chargingstation within the boundaries of the unit owner’s limitedcommon element parking space, subject to certainconditions as laid out in this new legislation.It is important to note that the right of installation of anelectric vehicle charging station is ONLY applicable tothe “limited common element” parking space and doesnot apply to a “common element” parking space. Thereis an important difference between a common elementand a limited common element parking space. While allunit owners own an undivided interest in both, thelimited common element parking space vests anindividual use right to the owners of the unit to whichthe limited common element is appurtenant (connectedto). Therefore, associations may prohibit the installationof electronic vehicle charging stations within thecommon elements or other portions of thecondominium property that are maintained for the

general use and benefit of all unit owners, but not asapplied to a limited common element parking space,subject to the limitations and conditions of thelegislation.Thus, section 718.113(8) of the Florida Statutes,provides that, in considering a unit owner’s request toinstall an electric vehicle charging station, theassociation first must determine whether the chargingstation is to be installed within the boundaries of therequesting unit owner’s limited common elementparking space. Whether a parking space is a limitedcommon element is determined by the provisions of thedeclaration of condominium designating the parkingspace for the exclusive use and benefit of the ownersof a specific unit.If it is determined that the parking space is a limitedcommon element, the unit owner may have the electricvehicle charging station installed subject to therequirements of the new legislation. Theserequirements provide that:

1. The installation cannot cause irreparable damageto the condominium property.

2. The unit owner is responsible for the costs ofinstallation, operation, insurance, maintenance,repair, and removal of the charging station

3. The electricity for the electric vehicle chargingstation must be separately metered and payableby the unit owner.

All of the above costs, if left unpaid by a unit owner, areenforceable by the association as any otherassessment due pursuant to section 718.116, FloridaStatutes, meaning if left unpaid their condominium unitcan be foreclosed.

Continued on page 29

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: CondominiumsGoing Green-Jef f rey A . Rembaum, Esq . , BCS, Kaye Bender RembaumPublished with permission from ‘Rembaum’s Association Roundup’

Feb. 27 at Doc B’s in Ft. Lauderdale | Mar. 13 at Ball & Chain in Miami

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10 Tips to Protect Your Water Resources and Community This Summer-SOLitude Lake Management

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Summer means longer, sunnier days filledwith fishing, boating and other outdooractivities. But as the warm weather arrives,

it can create conditions that may be dangerous forthe health and well-being of your family and theenvironment. Implementing the following proactiveand sustainable strategies—or working with yourhomeowners association, parks service ormunicipality to do so—can help prevent harmfulalgal blooms, nuisance mosquitoes and thespread of dangerous invasive plants throughoutthe summer.Prevent Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)

1. Correctly identify HABsHABs often manifest in parallel streaks or clumpeddots. They can also look like spilled blue, green orwhite paint or turn the water a bright “pea soup”green. If you suspect a harmful bloom,professional laboratory testing is necessary toconfirm. Contact your lake managementprofessional immediately.2. Regularly test water qualityProperty owners and municipality leaders oftenwait until after HABs appear to conduct waterquality tests, but a regular proactive testing

program can help predict and address waterquality impairments before they get out of hand.3. Introduce nanobubble aerationNanobubble aeration is a new technologyregistered with the EPA to naturally destroyexisting HABs and algal toxins while infusingdissolved oxygen in the water resource for long-lasting water quality enhancement and algalbloom prevention.4. Remediate excess nutrientsNutrient loading is a vicious cycle that canaccelerate with decades of invasive plant growth.Apply products like eco-friendly Phoslock, Alumand biochar, to bind with pollutants and keep themfrom supporting invasive speciesEradicate Invasive Plant Species

Invasive plants diminish the biological diversity ofnative plant life and destroy native habitats thatinsects, birds and mammals rely on for food andrefuge. They can also interfere with recreation byclogging boat motors, tangling fishing lines andcreating hazards that could drown swimmers.Without proper management, invasive speciescan cost municipalities, homeowners associationsand taxpayers billions of dollars each year toeffectively eradicate.5. Reduce stormwater runoffExcess nutrients like Phosphorous and Nitrogenhelp fuel algae and invasive species growth.Prevent undesirable nutrients, from fertilizer andpet waste, from entering your waterbody byplanting a beneficial vegetative buffer comprisedof native grasses and flowering plants. Allow it togrow 3-5 ft from the shoreline. Continued on page 30

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Continued from page 12Before Disaster Strikes —–-This will involve crucial systems such as elevators, airconditioning and domestic water distribution. Manyassociations are skeptical about why these systemsshould be shut down during a hurricane. One of thebest illustrations is with your elevators. As mentionedbefore, in many buildings the elevator equipment islocated on the roof. Should this equipment bedamaged during the hurricane while someone is inthe elevator and the car stops running that personmay be trapped for extended periods of time beforethey can be freed. Other mechanical equipment cansuffer more extensive damage while operating than ifit was dormant. You should check with your serviceproviders for their recommendations on how toprepare said equipment for the hurricane and shouldsuch systems be left operational. Remember that themore damage that is done will result in moreextensive repairs and longer times in restoring thatsystem.Another important area to address is if yourassociation is currently doing any sort of capitalproject. PMG makes sure that all contractors workingon our managed projects have a hurricanedemobilization and remobilization written protocolwhich outlines the steps that will be taken. Duringexterior restoration projects this can be furtherspecific by hurricane category.The more an association does in preventativemeasures and exercising caution in their hurricaneoperations can result in much quicker restorationtimes after the hurricane has passed. Don’t forgeteven a tropical storm can result in extensive damageand life-threatening conditions.

Doug Weinstein is Vice President of ProjectManagement Group, Inc. (PMG), anaffiliate of AKAM Living Services, Inc.. Hemay be reached at:dweinstein@projectmgtgroup.com.

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Ask the Expert: How to Save Energy and MoneyWhen Away From the Home-Florida Power & Light

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What to do to save energy when no one ishome varies on a lot of factors. Forexample, the time of year, location, size

and type of home, length of time away from yourhome, etc…During the warm weather, we recommend you setyour home’s cooling system to 78 degreesFahrenheit when you are home. If you will be out ofthe house for four or more hours, consider raisingthe setting to 82 degrees.Going away on vacation?Keep in mind that the best temperature settingvaries from person to person, home to home, andA/C unit to A/C unit, but whatever your comfortabletemperature is, remember this rule of thumb: “Bysimply setting the thermostat up 1 degree higherthan normal while you’re away during the warmermonths can save you up to 5% of your cooling cost”.Here are tips on a few different scenarios:� Away for a few days – If you’re only going to be

gone for a short time, just a day or two, it’s betterto keep the air conditioner on, but raise thethermostat to 82 degrees or higher so you’reusing less energy. Cooling an empty house to thetemperature you’d be comfortable at while homecan be wasteful and unnecessary. By closing thecurtains before leaving the house will block theafternoon sun and help keep the home cooler

� Away for a week or more – For longer vacationswhen no one will be using your home for a weekor more at a time, set the temperature to 82degrees or higher while away.For ultimateconvenience and control, consider installing asmart thermostat, and preferably one you canadjust from your smart phone. This way, you’ll be

able to monitor and control your home’s largestenergy user right from your phone – whereveryou are and you can begin to cool your homebefore your return. Learn more about smartthermostats and the benefits they can provide byvisiting our recent smart thermostat blog

� Away for the season – If you are a seasonalresident and will be away from your home forseveral months, first consider what type ofthermostat you have because the perfect settingvaries depending on thermostat type you own.� For manual thermostats, the perfect setting

is about 77 degrees if you live in a condo 1,2and 80 degrees if you live in a house. Thissetting will prevent mold growth in your homewithout making your energy bill go way up

� For programmable thermostats, considersetting it to 72 for two hours each morningprior to sunrise and then 82 the rest of theday. This will help prevent mold growth whenthe air is cooler and humidity is highest

� Humidity control – Set the controls of yourhumidistats and/or dehumidifiers to 58percent relative humidity (RH) to maintainacceptable humidity, since some humidistatsensors are inaccurate by as many as 10percentage points

� For maximum energy savings – Use portabledehumidifiers instead of air conditioning. Setdehumidifiers at 58 percent by sinks andshowers, one for every 1,000 square feet. Besure to place the dehumidifiers so the waterruns into the drain.

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Energy SavingsContinued from page 26

Other steps to save energy when away from yourhome on vacation:Refrigerator – If you are going to be away from yourhome for months at a time, you may want to considerturning off the circuit breakers for the refrigerator, andensure that the fridge is clean and the door is left open.Pool pump – If you have a pool, your pool pump canbe the second biggest energy user. You can reduceyour pool pump’s run time while you are away to saveenergy. We suggest you run your pool pump four hoursper day in the winter, and six hours per day in thesummer. If you have a variable-speed pool pump besure to talk to a certified or registered pool contractoron how to set it while you are away. Also, by loweringthe temperature setting of your pool or hot tub you willreduce filter run times.Water heater – A traditional, tank-style electric waterheater keeps your water hot day and night so it’savailable when you need it. If you’re not going to behome, you’ll save energy by turning it off. See how tolook for your tank’s on/off switch. If you’re going to beaway for an extended period and don’t have an on/offswitch, you may want to turn off the circuit breaker tothe hot water heater. Keep in mind that you may needa few hours to heat the tank when you return. For anatural gas water heater: Turn it down to “low” or to“vacation mode.”Lighting – Can be the fourth largest energy user forhomeowners. But many of you are already taking stepsto reduce the cost of lighting your home by swappingout older bulbs for more energy-efficient LEDs. Also,don’t forget to turn off your lights when you leave forvacation and consider using automatic timers.Electronics – When leaving on vacation, unplug allelectronics, and turn off cable or satellite boxes untilyou return to ensure that you efficiently are not payingfor energy you aren’t using.Did you know some appliances use energy evenwhen they are off?We suggest turning off or even unplugging appliancesand other items that use energy even when they’re inoff- or idle-mode. Look for items that have always-ondigital clocks or other displays, these can be energystealers. Below is a list of some of the best appliancesto turn off or unplug while you’re away:Home entertainment equipment, including videogame consoles, set-top boxes (DVRs), and otherTV-related devices – Just two of these boxes canequal the energy use of a refrigerator, and that cancause your bill to increase. So, unplugging these itemscould lead to a savings of a few dollars a month.

Desktop computers, monitors, and other computerequipment – This includes those pesky chargingdevices. Many of us have multiple devices – phone,tablet, laptop – and even multiple people using them.Did you know that the average cost of charging thesedevices is coming in at about $15/year? It’s definitelyworth unplugging the chargers when you’re not home.Home stereo equipment, like AV receivers, stereos,and speakers – Left plugged in or turned on when notis use can add a few extra dollars to your bill. Ifconnected to power strips, they can be easily beswitched off and then back on.Electronic kitchen appliances such as coffeemakers, microwaves, or small refrigerators – Somedevices, like toasters or stand mixers, don’t draw anyenergy unless they’re being used, so there’s really noneed to unplug them.Miscellaneous devices, alarm clocks andnightlights draw relatively little power (just a couplewatts), so although it’s still beneficial to unplug or turnthem off if possible, they may not be high-prioritydevices. With that said, every penny counts!Technologies that can automatically turn off yourelectronicsFor many customers, it’s also worth consideringoptions that can automatically turn off electronicswhenever they aren’t being used (not just when youleave for vacation). The two most prominent options fordoing this include using advanced power strips or smartplugs:Smart plug is an outlet that can be controlled by amobile app and lets you turn on and off any appliancethat plugs into a standard wall socket.Advanced power strip also known as APS look justlike ordinary power strips, except that they have built-infeatures that are designed to reduce the amount ofenergy used by many consumer electronics andpresent one option to address unnecessary powerdraw.Lastly, safety and security – while saving on yourmonthly energy bill is important, safety and security areeven more important. Be sure to give your home thatlived-in look while you’re away by using programmabletimers that allow you to manage which lights to turn on,when and for how long while you’re away from home.We’re always working to keep your energy bills low,and helping you find ways to make your bill lower.When you get back from your vacation, take our OnlineHome Energy Survey to get a free personalizedrecommendation for managing your energy usage. �

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Additionally, as provided by the new legislation, theassociation can and should require that the unit owner:

comply with bona fide safety requirements, consistent withapplicable building codes or recognized safety standards,for the protection of persons and property;

1. comply with reasonable architectural standardsadopted by the association that govern the dimensions,placement, or external appearance of the electricvehicle charging station, provided that such standardsmay not prohibit the installation of such charging stationor substantially increase the cost thereof;

2. engage the services of a licensed and registeredelectrical contractor or engineer familiar with theinstallation and core requirements of an electric vehiclecharging station;

3. provide a certificate of insurance naming theassociation as an additional insured on the owner’sinsurance policy for any claim related to the installation,maintenance, or use of the electric vehicle chargingstation within 14 days after receiving the association’sapproval to install such charging station; and

4. reimburse the association for the actual cost of anyincreased insurance premium amount attributable tothe electric vehicle charging station within 14 days afterreceiving the association’s insurance premium invoice.

Although your condominium association may not havereceived a request for the installation of an electric vehiclecharging station as yet, your board of directors should beprepared for such a request. After all, it is only a matter oftime. Therefore, condominium boards should consideradopting rules and regulations governing the process bywhich a unit owner is required to make such a request andprovide for procedures by which the board of directors is toconduct its review and approval of the request.

While a unit owner desiring to install and use an electricvehicle charging station within his or her limited commonelement parking space will be able to do so by way of thisnew legislation, the association still has the authority togovern certain aspects of the installation and use andshould be proactive in making rules and regulations in linewith this authority. Your association’s legal counsel can beof great benefit to the board in creating a clear and conciseprocess governing the electric car charging stationsinstallation and use.

Charging Stations Continued from page 28

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Continued from page 21Protect Water Resources

6. Physically remove vegetationA mechanical harvester can be used to achieve“area selective” control of nuisance aquaticvegetation through physical removal. Typically,one to two harvests are recommended to provideseason-long control of commonly targetedspecies.7. Educate your communitySupport proactive management with communityeducation. Place signs around lakes and ponds todiscourage the transportation of plant matter.Install dog waste disposal stations and encourageresidents to pick up garbage and grass clippings.Thwart Mosquitoes & Midges

Mosquitoes pose a significant risk to public healthas they carry many debilitating and deadlydiseases, such as Zika and West Nile Virus.Though mosquitoes often lay eggs in lakes andponds, they can reproduce in very small bodies ofwater, including those that form in potholes,clogged gutters and even trash. Midges, the“cousin” of mosquitoes, don’t suck blood or

transmit diseases, but they can be quite thenuisance by swarming lights and buildingexteriors. When large numbers die, they smell ofdead fish.8. Stock fishStocking native fish species is a great tool to keepmidge and mosquito populations in check.Arrange a professional electrofishing survey toanalyze fish populations and create a strategicplan to introduce bluegill, minnows andmosquitofish.9. Circulate the waterbodyMosquitoes and midges lay eggs in stagnantwater. A floating fountain or submersed diffusedaeration system can help create turbulent waterconditions that deter them and raise dissolvedoxygen levels that help oxidize nutrients – aprimary food source of filter-feeding larvae. Addinga flowering vegetative buffer around thewaterbody can help attract dragonflies thatconsume mosquito larvae.10. Schedule stormwater inspectionsStormwater ponds are designed to capture waterand pollutants before releasing it slowly, butclogged or damaged systems can create stagnantconditions that encourage mosquito breeding.Regular inspections will help minimize this threat.SOLitude Lake Management is dedicated to making water a morehealthy and beautiful part of our world. In that pursuit, SOLitudeoffers sustainable solutions that improve water quality, enhancebeauty, preserve natural resources and reduce our environmentalfootprint.

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