What Multifamily Residential Property Owners in South Florida Need to Know About Florida’s HB 837
The passage of House Bill 837 in Florida, signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis on March 24, 2023, represents one of the most significant shifts in tort law in decades—particularly impacting the multifamily residential property sector.
This legislation, focused on negligent security, introduces a new legal framework that substantially alters the liability landscape for property owners. In Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties, where multifamily communities are growing rapidly, this law makes compliance with safety and security measures more important than ever.
What HB 837 Means for Property Owners
At its core, HB 837 creates a “presumption against liability” for property owners—if they implement specific safety and security requirements. This means courts will assume the property owner is not legally responsible for injuries caused by criminal acts on the property, unless there is strong evidence of actual negligence.
For multifamily communities, this represents both a shield against costly lawsuits and a clear mandate to upgrade security measures to stay compliant.
Key Security Requirements Under HB 837
To qualify for this presumption against negligence, multifamily residential property owners must:
- Install security camera systems at all entry and exit points with at least 30 days of recorded footage.
- Maintain adequate lighting in parking lots, walkways, and common areas.
- Use minimum 1-inch deadbolts on all unit entry doors.
- Ensure all windows and exterior doors have locking devices.
- Be in substantial compliance with a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) assessment by January 1, 2025.
- Provide crime deterrence and safety training to employees.
Why This Matters for South Florida Communities
Multifamily properties in Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties are especially vulnerable to negligent security claims given high population density, tourism, and crime trends. With HB 837 in effect, failure to comply with these requirements could expose HOAs, boards, and property owners to significant liability and financial loss.
At the same time, compliance not only reduces liability but also enhances resident safety, improves property value, and lowers insurance risk.
The Role of Sequentex
Sequentex provides multifamily property owners in South Florida with end-to-end physical security and compliance solutions tailored to HB 837 requirements.
Our offerings include:
- High-definition surveillance cameras with continuous recording and 30+ day retention.
- Advanced lighting systems for parking lots, walkways, and community spaces.
- CPTED assessments and compliance consulting.
- Integration of smart access control, alarms, and IoT monitoring systems.
- Resident and staff safety training programs.
By working with Sequentex, property owners in South Florida can demonstrate compliance with HB 837, reduce liability exposure, and build safer communities.
Protect Your Community, Protect Your Investment
Sequentex is your trusted partner for security compliance in Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami-Dade counties.
Sequentex is an Certified Technical Rhombus Partner.
