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Florida homeowners frustrated with confusing HOA rules, limited oversight, and lengthy dispute processes may soon see major changes under a new bill filed in the state legislature. Representative Juan Carlos Porras, a Republican from Miami, has introduced HB 657 – Community Associations, a reform package aimed at increasing transparency, accountability, and fairness for the millions of Floridians living under homeowners associations.
HB 657 was drafted in response to a growing wave of complaints from across the state. Homeowners have reported unclear HOA procedures, inconsistent enforcement of rules, limited options for resolving disputes, and a lack of meaningful oversight. The new legislation seeks to modernize how HOAs operate and how conflicts are handled within Florida’s court system.
Creates a New Community Association Court Program
One of the most significant changes in HB 657 is the creation of the Community Association Court Program. This new structure would operate within Florida’s circuit courts and use qualified arbitrators to oversee disputes between homeowners and their associations. The goal is to provide a faster, more efficient, and more affordable process for resolving conflicts that currently drag on for months or even years.
The bill also eliminates burdensome pre suit mediation requirements that often delay resolutions and increase costs for homeowners. HOAs would be required to update their governing documents using standardized language to reduce confusion and ensure fairness statewide.
First Clear Legal Framework to Terminate an HOA
In a major shift, HB 657 establishes Florida’s first explicit legal pathway for residents to terminate a homeowners association that has become dysfunctional or no longer serves the interests of the community. This has been a point of contention for years, as Florida law has never clearly explained how homeowners can legally dissolve an HOA.
The bill outlines:
• Requirements for filing a valid Plan of Termination
• The responsibilities and powers of a Termination Trustee
• Proper distribution of association assets
• Payment of lawful debts and obligations
• Prohibitions against unlawful actions by HOA officers and directors
Supporters say this gives residents a way to reclaim control of their community when an association becomes abusive or mismanaged.
More Reporting and Oversight
HB 657 would require each judicial circuit to file annual reports on HOA dispute activity. The Office of the State Courts Administrator would receive administrative support funding from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
According to Rep. Porras, the goal is to finally give homeowners a fair and transparent system that addresses long standing issues with HOA governance.
“Putting Homeowners First”
In a public statement, Representative Porras said that HB 657 “puts homeowners first by creating a fair and transparent system that finally addresses long standing issues in community governance.”
He added that the bill allows the people living in HOA communities to decide whether they want their association to continue, instead of being trapped with no recourse.
Effective Date: July 1, 2026
If passed, the legislation would take effect July 1, 2026, giving state agencies, courts, and residential communities time to prepare for sweeping reforms.
HOA laws are among the most discussed and criticized in Florida politics, with many residents calling for change. HB 657 marks one of the most significant reform attempts in recent years and has already generated strong interest among homeowners across the state.
