Why Statute 768.0706 matters & How You Can Turn Compliance into Protection
Managing a multifamily community in Florida today means more than repairing roofs, leasing units, and mowing lawns. It increasingly means being proactive about safety, security, and risk mitigation. That’s especially true in light of Florida’s new tort law, Florida Statute § 768.0706 (enacted as part of HB 837 in 2023), which offers property owners a presumption against liability for third-party criminal acts, but only if certain security measures are “substantially implemented.”
Two of the most critical requirements are:
- (a)(1): A security camera system at points of entry and exit, with video retained for at least 30 days
- (a)(6): Locked gates with key or fob access along pool fence areas
These two elements are among the most visible, measurable, and often scrutinized during assessments, audits, or even litigation. If you get them wrong (or skip them), you may jeopardize your ability to claim the liability protection the statute offers.
Understanding these requirements
Section a(1) Security Cameras
Every vehicle entrance and exit must be monitored by cameras that record continuously. The footage must be saved for 30+ days. If cameras go down, retention fails, or footage can’t be produced, your compliance, and legal protection, vanish.
Section a(6) Locked Pool Gates
Pool gates must remain locked and accessible only by a key, fob, or secure credential. Simple latch gates, padlocks or broken access systems don’t qualify. Because pools are high-risk areas, this detail can determine whether your property remains protected under the law.
Why compliance matters
Failing to meet even one of these standards can erase your liability protection under § 768.0706. Compliance, on the other hand, gives you:
- A legal defense: The law presumes you’re not negligent in third-party criminal acts.
- Reduced litigation risk: Fewer costly settlements and shorter court battles.
- Insurance leverage: Compliance can help maintain or lower premiums.
- Resident confidence: Visibly secure communities attract and retain tenants.
Noncompliance means increased liability exposure, higher insurance costs, and reputational damage — all from a few preventable security gaps.
How we can help you stay compliant
We specialize in helping multifamily managers meet (and exceed) these statutory requirements using best-in-class technology:
Eagle Eye Networks, Smarter security cameras
- Monitors all entry and exit points.
- Stores footage securely in the cloud for 30+ days.
- Sends alerts if a camera goes offline.
- Provides easy video retrieval for audits or incidents.
Brivo Access Control, Secure doors & gates
- Key fob or mobile credential access that logs every entry.
- Integrates with Eagle Eye for synchronized video and access events.
- Allows remote management and status monitoring.
Schedule Your Free Onsite Evaluation
Many communities think they’re compliant, until a gap is exposed. We’ll walk your property, identify risks, and design a plan that aligns with § 768.0706(a)(1) and (a)(6) at no cost, no obligation, just clarity and peace of mind.
Protect your property, your residents, and your liability. Contact us today to schedule your free onsite security evaluation and ensure your cameras, gates, and access systems meet Florida’s new standards.