Florida Community Association Manager Practice Exam

In an emergency, can a condo or cooperative contract on behalf of a unit owner for services the owner is responsible for?

1. Cannot

2. Can

3. Only with owner consent

4. Only for essential services

The correct answer is: Can

In the context of community associations, particularly condominiums and cooperatives, the governing documents and state statutes recognize specific circumstances under which the association may act on behalf of unit owners in emergencies. In such situations, when a unit owner is unable to manage their responsibilities due to an emergency (for example, a significant plumbing leak, structural integrity concerns, or health hazards), the association is empowered to contract for necessary services to protect the property and ensure safety. This authority is essential for maintaining the integrity and habitability of the condominium or cooperative. It allows for prompt action to address urgent issues that could lead to further damage, safety risks, or compliance violations if not addressed immediately. While it is always best practice to communicate with the unit owner where possible, the urgent nature of emergencies often precludes such communication. Therefore, the association's ability to act on behalf of the unit owner in these scenarios is crucial to overall community management and upholding the quality of life for all residents. This rationale illustrates why the answer indicating that the association can contract for services on behalf of a unit owner during emergencies is indeed the correct one.