Code of Ethics for HOA's in FL

Good evening: Does anyone know if there are any standards for HOA Board of Directors, especially in Florida pertaining to a uniformed code of ethics for HOA Boards? Thank you.

Ray

I think your question not only applies to a Florida BoD, but is appropriate for any geographical region.

Truly ethical association BoD practices require more than a fear of legal consequences or a desire for a good reputation. Ethical business practices require a clear understanding of right and wrong, and a motivation on the part of directors, members and contractors to act in the proper manner at all times. This means adhering to not only the letter but also the spirit of all applicable laws and regulations.

The following code of ethics had been adopted by our BoD to guide their activities:
1. The Board of Directors will use its best efforts at all times to make decisions that are consistent with high principles, and to protect and enhance the safety and property value of the members.
2. No gifts of any type will be accepted by any volunteer from any resident, contractor, or supplier that may be intended to unduly influence the judgment of the Board of Directors. Gifts of a nominal value and personal nature given as a token of friendship or on special occasions are acceptable. Likewise, entertainment that would be difficult to describe as “lavish” is acceptable. Cash gifts of any amount are not acceptable.
3. No contributions will be made to any political parties or political candidates by the association without a majority vote of the community confirming such action.
4. The Board Members will protect confidentiality of other Board Members’ personal lives, as well as all association members’ personal lives.
5. No promise of anything can be made to any subcontractor, supplier, or contractor during negotiations, unless approved by the Board as a whole.
6. Language at Board Meetings will be kept professional. Personal attacks against Co-owners and Board Members are prohibited and are not consistent with the best interest of the association. It is understood that differences of opinion will exist. They should be expressed in a clear and business-like fashion.
7. A Board Member may not knowingly misrepresent any facts to anyone involved in anything with the association that would benefit himself/herself in any way.
8. No Board Member may use his/her position into enhance his/her financial status through the use of certain contractors or suppliers. Any potential or actual conflict of interest must be disclosed to the other Board of Directors.
9. No member may use any funds being held for condo association business for their own personal use. All finds must be segregated either through bank accounts or accounting records.

This Code of Ethics policy is just one of several BoD and other business practices that should be established as a part of a comprehensive management system. For a closer look, visit www.*********.com under the Contents section.

Good Luck
JoeK

Ray another place you might look is:

http://www.hindmansanchez.com/docs/sample_board_policies_and_procedures_book_of_governance.pdf

We use the attached