Jacksonville, FL HOA Rules: Dispute Resolution (2026)
Key Facts
- Mandatory Mediation
- Elections, budgets, records, meeting notice
- Exempt
- Assessment collection disputes
- Mediator
- FL Rules-certified mediator
- Attorney Fees
- Prevailing party may recover
Summary
Florida Statute Section 720.311 requires mandatory presuit mediation for certain HOA disputes before filing a lawsuit. Disputes regarding elections, meeting notice, and record access must go through mediation. Assessment collection disputes are exempt from mandatory mediation.
(1) The Legislature finds that alternative dispute resolution has made progress in reducing court dockets and trials and in offering a more efficient, cost-effective option to litigation. The filing of any petition for arbitration or the serving of a demand for presuit mediation as provided for in this section shall toll the applicable statute of limitations. Any recall dispute filed with the department under s. 720.303 (10) shall be conducte
Full Breakdown
311, certain disputes between a member and the association must be submitted to mandatory presuit mediation before a lawsuit may be filed. Disputes subject to mandatory mediation include: election disputes, budget disputes, access to official records, and disputes regarding notice of board meetings. Assessment collection disputes are specifically exempt from mandatory mediation. Either party may initiate mediation by filing a petition with a certified mediator. If mediation fails to resolve the dispute, the parties may proceed to circuit court. The mediator must be certified under Florida Rules of Civil Procedure.
Mediation costs are typically split between the parties. The Florida DBPR Division of Florida Condominiums, Timeshares, and Mobile Homes does not have jurisdiction over HOA disputes (only condo disputes), but the Duval County Court system offers court-annexed mediation programs. Arbitration may be agreed upon by the parties but is not mandatory. 305(1).
Violations & Fines
Filing suit without attempting mediation (when required): case may be dismissed or stayed pending mediation. Attorney fees forfeited if mediation not attempted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to mediate before suing my Jacksonville HOA?
Who handles HOA complaints in Jacksonville?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Jacksonville
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