Florida homeowners’ associations are governed by Chapter 720 of the Florida Statutes. The statute does not require an HOA to hire security, but boards have duties to manage the common areas, follow their governing documents and spend association money responsibly. When a community decides it needs security, those duties shape how the board should go about it.
Start with your governing documents
Your declaration, bylaws and rules define what the association controls: gates, clubhouses, pools, parking and roads. Security coverage should protect those common areas and enforce the rules the community has actually adopted. If you want guards to enforce parking or amenity rules, make sure those rules are written and properly adopted first.
Hire licensed security only
In Florida, private security is regulated under Chapter 493. The agency must hold a Class B license and every officer must hold a Class D license. Ask for both before signing a contract. Truman Security’s agency license is B1300316.
Match coverage to the real problem
- Gate access problems (tailgating, unknown vehicles): a staffed gatehouse with visitor logging
- Amenity misuse after hours: scheduled lock-ups and mobile patrol checks
- Vehicle break-ins or package theft: visible patrols at night and on weekends
- Events and holidays: short-term added coverage
Budget and transparency
Security is often one of the larger line items in an HOA budget. Boards should get a written proposal with hourly rates, the schedule, and what reports they will receive. Monthly reports help the board show owners what the money is buying.
Communicating with residents
Residents need to know what officers can and cannot do. Unarmed officers observe, report, enforce community rules and call law enforcement when needed; they are not police. Setting expectations early avoids conflict at the gate.
See our HOA security services and our guide on what Miami HOAs should look for in a security company.
Truman Security is a Florida Class B licensed security agency (B1300316) serving Miami-Dade and Broward. Call (305) 647-3122 or request a free quote.
