Condo owners, whether full-time residents or rental investors, have the same needs for storm protection as single family homeowners do. Almost every condominium manages additions and improvements to the exterior of the building through a homeowners association. The function of the association board is to insure that all such work conforms to specifications that maintain the uniformity of the building, and guarantee the mandated levels of performance.

The State of Florida has recognized the right of every individual condominium unit owner to protect his/her unit from storm damage. The association board must accommodate the request of an owner to add shutters, but may decide which type of system to adopt. Other states will undoubtedly adopt similar laws.

We at Distinctive Products, Inc. have worked together with numerous condominium homeowner association boards to develop meaningful specifications that insure the required level of storm protection, and protect the overall appearance and value of the building.

The process of developing a specification begins with a very detailed site survey.  Understanding the unique features of a building is of paramount importance. We then meet with interested owners to determine which daily use features are desired. Next, we determine the level of performance that is required under local codes, and select products to meet these demands. Finally, we present our findings and the various options to the Board for its consideration.

Included in this presentation are draft specifications for each option. These documents mandate the materials and installation methods that are necessary to achieve the level of performance that is required and expected by the homeowners association. The specification also spells out the color and other aesthetic aspects of the shutter system chosen.

Once a well-drafted specification has been adopted by the association, individual unit owners are free to choose any supplier of storm protection products—provided that the proposed installation meets the established specification.

We have prepared a step-by-step guide to assist condo boards in establishing a specification. Interested board members can receive a free copy. Simply call or e-mail us your request.

We invite you to view the photos page that shows some of our installations at area condominiums. In all cases shown, we assisted the homeowners association in developing specifications. We trust that you will agree that properly designed and installed shutter systems blend into the building architecture while protecting the unit from storm damage.