Florida Community Association Manager Practice Exam

Which of the following scenarios could necessitate the approval of the condominium board?

1. Simple repairs to individual units

2. Replacement of external light fixtures

3. Proposed alterations to common areas

4. Changing entry locks for residents

The correct answer is: Proposed alterations to common areas

The necessity for the condominium board's approval is particularly relevant when it comes to proposed alterations to common areas. In a condominium setting, common areas—such as hallways, lobbies, pools, and gardens—are collectively owned by all unit owners, and any alterations to these spaces typically require the board's oversight. This ensures that changes align with the community's overall aesthetic, functionality, and regulatory compliance, and that they do not negatively impact other residents. Common areas are governed by the association's rules and regulations, which are in place to maintain the integrity and harmony of the community. Large-scale or aesthetic changes often require careful consideration by the board to assess the impact on all homeowners, including potential costs or special assessments that may arise from the change. In contrast, simple repairs to individual units and changing entry locks for residents generally fall under the responsibility of the individual unit owners and do not require board approval. Likewise, while the replacement of external light fixtures might seem significant, if those fixtures are not part of the common property (for example, if they are exclusively for a specific unit), it may also not necessitate board approval. This distinction emphasizes the board’s role in the management of shared spaces versus individual unit matters.