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In a previous article we discussed what can happen when a condominium association improperly handles an accommodation request involving a service animal. Unfortunately, a recent federal case in Florida shows that some associations are still struggling with requests for service animals.

In this case, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) was told he could not keep his dog because it exceeded the association’s 25-pound limit. The unit owner sent a letter from his treating physician stating that the emotional support animal was prescribed to help the unit owner cope with his PTSD-related depression, stress and anxiety. The physician then provided two more letters describing the nature of the disability and the need for an emotional support animal in greater detail.

Nevertheless, the association requested more information from the unit owner and his physician. After several months without a response, the association formally demanded removal of the dog. After filing a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Florida Commission on Human Relations, the unit owner sued the association under the federal and Florida Fair Housing Act (FHA) for denying him a reasonable accommodation.

For Board Member education as defined by the State of Florida, Click Here.
For Community Associtation Manager Continuing Education, Click Here.

During an emergency, decisions need to be made fast. There usually isn’t time to go “by the book.” This is why Florida’s Condominium Act authorizes association boards to exercise additional emergency powers More...

For Board Member education as defined by the State of Florida, Click Here.
For Community Associtation Manager Continuing Education, Click Here.

It is virtually impossible to be effective at Condominium Governance when attention is diverted to 'problem' incidences that require significant resources to resolve. For this reason, proactive Governance is essential to effective Board Leadership and the peaceful coexistence of residents within a community association.

The following tips are a 'must read' for Board Members who want to limit conflict and enjoy their lives as community leaders: More...

Those choosing to serve on their condominium board undertake a significant responsibility. Their decision puts them in charge of steering the course of not only their homes, but those of their neighbors. More...