In March 2023, Florida enacted legislation (HB 837/SB 236, now Chapter 2023-15) aimed at tort reform and reducing lawsuit abuse, which also imposes new security requirements on multifamily residential property owners. To mitigate negligence claims, property owners must implement several security measures by January 1, 2025, including:
- Installing security cameras at all entrances and exits, with recordings stored for at least 30 days.
- Ensuring parking lots and common areas are well-lit from dusk to dawn.
- Equipping each dwelling unit’s door with a deadbolt at least one inch in length.
- Securing all windows, exterior sliding doors, and non-community doors with locks.
- Implementing access control for pool areas, such as fences and gates with key or fob access.
- Providing peepholes or door viewers for each residence’s door, unless the door has a window or is bordered by one.
Additionally, property owners are required to have a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessment conducted by law enforcement and ensure compliance with its recommendations by the same date. They must also provide crime deterrence and safety training to facility employees by January 1, 2025, with new employees receiving training within 60 days of hiring.
