If you live in a neighborhood with a Homeowners Association (HOA), you've probably received letters about assessments, late fees, or even attorney's fees. But what happens when the HOA goes too far — demanding money you don't owe, adding bogus fees, or using scare tactics?

Good news: Florida law protects homeowners from unfair HOA collections. And yes — HOA's can be held accountable just like any other debt collector under the Florida Consumer Collection Practices Act (FCCPA), Florida Statute §559.72.

HOA's Are Not Above the Law

A recent Florida court decision makes it clear: HOA's must follow the same consumer protection laws as debt collectors when trying to collect money from homeowners.

If your HOA is trying to collect:

✅ Past-due assessments
✅ Fines for alleged violations
✅ Attorney's fees and costs

...they must do it fairly, legally, and without harassment, false information, or deceptive practices.

What Is the Florida Consumer Collection Practices Act?

The FCCPA is Florida's law that protects consumers from unfair or abusive debt collection practices. It applies to all kinds of consumer debt — including HOA debt.

Under §559.72 of the FCCPA, it's illegal for an HOA or their attorneys to:

🚫 Try to collect amounts that are not actually owed
🚫 Use threats, lies, or intimidation
🚫 Add attorney's fees or fines without proper legal basis
🚫 Communicate in ways that harass or mislead homeowners

If your HOA or their lawyer breaks these rules, you may have the right to sue them — and you may be entitled to money damages, plus they may have to pay your legal fees.

How Florida Courts Are Standing Up for Homeowners

In a recent case, the court ruled against the Dora Lake Estates Property Owners Association, Inc., for attempting to collect assessments from a homeowner after they discovered that the home in question was not included with the original HOA Declarations. The HOA argued they could continue to bill the home even though it was mistakenly left out of the original Declaration because the homeowner received the benefit of living within the neighborhood. The court found that the HOA violated Florida's consumer protection laws. This is a big win for Florida residents — and a clear warning to HOAs across the state: follow the law or face the consequences.

What to Do If Your HOA Is Harassing You for Money

If you've received collection letters or threats from your HOA, property manager, or their attorney, you may be dealing with illegal conduct. Don't pay until you know your rights.

📞 Call Florida Consumer Lawyers today — we specialize in Florida collection laws and the FCCPA. We help homeowners fight back against illegal collections, inflated fines, and abusive attorneys.

We offer free consultations, and if your rights were violated, the HOA may have to pay your legal fees.

✅ Get Help Now

• Stop harassing collection letters

• Challenge fake fines or attorney's fees

• Protect your home and your peace of mind

📱 Call us at (813) 282-9330
🌐 Visit us at www.floridaconsumerlawyers.com
📝 Free Case Review — No Obligation

Florida Consumer Lawyers — Standing Up for Homeowners Across Florida