New §553.8445, Florida Statutes (Created by SB 1178, effective July 1, 2025)

By Erum S. Kistemaker

Florida Statutory Amendment — Windows, Doors, and Hurricane Protection

Amendment to §718.113, Florida Statutes (Effective July 1, 2024)

  • House Bill 1021 amended §718.113(5), F.S., expanding the authority of condominium boards to install or require installation of various types of hurricane protection—including shutters, impact-resistant glass, code-compliant windows/doors, and related products—on all residential and mixed-use structures, even those constructed prior to July 1, 2024
  • The law clarifies that costs associated with installation, maintenance, repair, replacement, and operation of hurricane protection:
    • Are common expenses when required by the association,
    • Non-required costs are individual unit-owner assessments, and
    • Unit owners who already have code-compliant protection receive credits toward future assessments
  • Additionally, the act defines such work as non-material alterations to common elements and streamlines board/owner responsibilities and procedures

New §553.8445, Florida Statutes (Created by SB 1178, effective July 1, 2025)

  • This new section mandates that all exterior sliding glass doors in residential dwellings—including condominiums—must adhere to stringent protections to prevent water intrusion in winds of up to 100 mph, as a prerequisite for:
    • Building permits for installation/repair,
    • Milestone inspections under §553.899, F.S., and
    • Compliance with the Florida Building Code

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of legal issues does Kistemaker Business Law Group handle?

We offer legal guidance and representation in business law & litigation, real estate law, condo & HOA law, construction law, corporate & LLC law, landlord-tenant issues, and property insurance claims.

What areas in Volusia and Flagler Counties do you serve?

We provide specialized legal counsel to clients across the entire Halifax area and beyond. While our office is in Ormond Beach, we frequently represent clients in:

  • Volusia County: Daytona Beach, Daytona Beach Shores, Port Orange, Deland, Deltona, and New Smyrna Beach.

  • Flagler County: Palm Coast and Flagler Beach.

Do you work with both businesses and individual property owners?

Yes — we serve businesses, associations, property owners, landlords, tenants, and developers throughout Volusia & Flagler Counties.

How can Kistemaker Business Law Group help my business with formation and compliance?

Our attorneys assist with entity formation (LLCs/corporations), compliance, contracts, governance, and ongoing legal counsel to help businesses start, grow, and operate confidently in Florida.

Can you help with landlord-tenant disputes?

Absolutely — we provide legal support for both commercial and residential landlord-tenant matters, including lease enforcement, dispute resolution, and eviction proceedings.

What experience does the firm’s leadership bring?

Managing attorney Erum Kistemaker has over 25 years of experience in business, property, construction, and condo/HOA law and holds prestigious recognitions including Super Lawyer status and AV Preeminent® rating.

What sets Kistemaker Business Law Group apart from other law firms?

We combine practical, client-focused legal strategy with deep experience in business and property law — offering tailored solutions and clear communication throughout the legal process.

Are there services available for property insurance disputes?

We provide legal representation for policyholders navigating coverage questions, claims disputes, denied benefits, and post-loss issues.

How do I schedule a consultation with your law firm?

You can contact the firm via phone or the online form on the Contact page to request a consultation, where we’ll discuss your legal needs and next steps.