Rules
INTRODUCTION
Plaza South is a Condominium, and as such, Rules and Regulations for the common good are established to guard the safety, health, and life of individuals, to protect property, and to eliminate annoying nuisances that are contrary to standards of good conduct, and often embarrassing to guests and residents.
These rules are designed to make living in our condominium apartment pleasant and comfortable. In living together, all of us not only have certain rights but also certain obligations to other condominium owners. We must remember that the restrictions we impose upon ourselves are for our mutual benefit and comfort.
Our community is only as good as we owners contribute to its success. Graciousness is a delicate balance of consideration for others and tolerance. If we were all guided by the “Golden Rule”, there would be no need for Rules and Regulations.
GENERAL RULES
The Plaza South Condominium is an apartment residence and is not to be used as a motel or hotel, or for any other transient or commercial purpose. The Board of Directors has determined and requires that the intended use of an apartment be limited to single family residence use. No illegal or unlawful use shall be made of any apartment or of the Common Property or of the Limited Common Property, nor any part thereof. All laws, zoning ordinances and regulations of all governmental authorities having jurisdiction of Plaza South Condominium shall be observed.
No owners of any apartment shall permit anything to be done or kept in their apartment, or on the Common Property, or on the Limited Common Property, which will increase the rate of insurance of Plaza South Condominium, or which will obstruct or interfere with the right of the other occupants of the building, or annoy them by unreasonable noises. Nor shall any such owner undertake any use or practice which shall create or constitute a nuisance to any other owner of an apartment, or which interferes with the peaceful possession and proper use of any other apartment or the Common Property, or the Limited Common Property.
Violation of rules has been noted, particularly when concerned with attire, use of pool, guests, noise, auto parking, etc. Owners must familiarize their guest with the Rules and Regulations.
Your Board of Directors has instructed the General manager, with the assistance of the security guards, to insure that all comply with the established Rules and Regulations; Violators will be reported to the Board of Directors by the General Manager.
In the event there is a continual or willful violation of any of the rules, the Board of Directors may elect to take legal action to enforce these rules. The cost of this legal action may be charged in accordance with the Condominium Documents to the owner who violates the rules. Please try to govern yourself accordingly. The Rules We Live By shall become part and parcel of the bylaws of the Condominium Documents.
OCCUPANCY REGULATIONS
1. Each of the apartments shall be occupied only by a family, its servants and guests, as a residence and for no other purpose. The maximum number of permanent occupants residing in each apartment shall be limited to three people in one bedroom apartment, four people in two bedroom apartment, and six people in three bedroom apartments, except for unusual circumstances, which must be approved by the Board of Directors.
2. GUESTS
2a. DESIGNATED GUESTS
Designated guests of absentee owners or lessees shall not occupy any apartment without prior approval by the Membership Committee. Owners planning to have guests, other than immediate family, occupy their apartments during their absence, shall notify the General Manager prior to such planned occupancy, the name, address and length of stay of each guest. All guests will be required to abide by the rules and regulations of Plaza South and the Board of Directors shall have the power to revoke such guest privileges of occupancy, if such rules and regulations are violated.
2b. HOUSE GUESTS OTHER THAN MEMBERS OF IMMEDIATE FAMILY
The number of house guests, other than members of immediate family (persons who will stay overnight or longer) is restricted so that no apartment may be occupied by more than the stated limit in our By-Laws.
3. REGISTRATION REQUIREMENT
3a. Only owner and lessee residents are not required to register in the Main Lobby. All others must register, giving their names, date, and time of arrival, and planned departure date and time. Registration must also show who is sponsoring each guest or visitor.
3b. Security Desk must announce visitors’ presence to their hosts before being admitted to the elevators. If resident is expecting more than two visitors, a list of names must be left with the Security Desk. Owners and lessees may designate members of their immediate family as guest occupants of their apartments in their absence as long as the occupancy levels heretofore referred to are respected. The use of an apartment by an owner or lessee resident’s immediate family in owner’s or lessee’s absence will necessitate the owner prior to the intended arrival of their families, giving their names, relationship, and approximate length of their stay, stating also that these guests are not tenants and are not paying rent or any other consideration for the use of the apartment.
3c. All guests must abide by the same rules and regulations in effect for owners and lessees who are responsible for them, and owner or lessee should advise their guests that their stay can be quickly terminated if any of the rules and regulations are violated.
PROPERTY DAMAGE RESPONSIBILITY
Owners, lessees, and their children, including guests and visitors and their children, shall not damage, destroy, or remove any part of the building equipment or furnishings, including all outside furnishings. The responsible owners shall pay the cost of restoring the area or property affected. Such replacement restoration must be to the satisfaction of the Board of Directors. Owners or lessees are further charged with the responsibility for any violations of the rules and regulations by any of their lessees, guests, immediate family, or visitors. It is, therefore, the owner’s responsibility to know that his lessees, guests, immediate family, or visitors are fully acquainted with the rules and regulations.
Any of the above that damage Association property are the responsibility of the owner(s), and owners(s) agree(s) to pay such damage. Owner(s) must pay any legal fee(s) necessary in collecting for such damage.
SECURITY AND SAFETY
1. ABSENCE OF OWNERS AND/OR LESSEES
Even for absences of a short duration, for the resident’s own protection, the General Manager should be notified of departure and planned return date and contact telephone numbers. For extended absence, the General Manager must be notified of departure and return dates. General Manager must be informed in writing if apartment is to be serviced in any way during resident’s absence, the name of the Service Company or individual, and what services are expected. Inform the General Manager in writing what arrangements have been made with reference to mail, parcel, or other deliveries. Plaza South Association, Inc., and its employees will not be responsible for any loss or damage resulting from resident’s authorized admissions to resident’s apartment. Furnishings, loose carpeting, etc., must be removed from exposed balconies during any extended absence. (See preparation for absence during Hurricane Season).
2. RIGHT OF ENTRY
The general personal safety of all and the prevention of loss and damage to contents due to fire or water line breakage requires that a key for each lock for each apartment must be on deposit in the front Security Desk. Failure to provide such keys makes an apartment owner (and/or lessee) totally responsible and liable for resulting injuries, loss of life, and property damage. Further, the Plaza South Association, Inc. will not be responsible for damage resulting from forced entry. Under no condition are locks permitted on air conditioning closet doors.
3. DOORS, CORRIDORS, AND CATWALKS
3a. Passages, catwalks, elevators, staircases, corridors, common elements, must not be obstructed in any manner. (Temporary seasonal decorations on entrance doors may be used, providing they are fire retardant). Ordinary safety and Fire Department Regulations must be maintained.
3b. It is not permissible to drape or hang anything from windows or balconies. No shaking of rugs, mops, tablecloths, etc., from windows or balconies is permitted. Clotheslines or drying racks of any description are not to be employed for the purpose of airing or drying clothes, bathing suits, other apparel or furnishings. Throwing of any objects, cigars, cigarettes, etc., or sweeping dirt or water from balconies is not permitted. Waterproof containers must be used for all potted plants. No painting of balcony walls, railings, ceilings, or doors will be permitted. No alterations to outside apartment walls, windows, or balconies (excepting hurricane shutters approved by Plaza South Association, Inc.) are permitted. The use of these materials could give the building an un-anesthetic appearance. Tinted plastics on inside of windows are permitted; also, the use of Mylar type foil in a window is permitted. To alter the outside appearance of any windows in any apartment (except inside draperies and drapery material), approval must be given by the Board of Directors. Cooking of any sort on balconies by whatever means is strictly prohibited.
3c. The three fire tower stairwells are accessible at all times. However, the bottom exit doors of these stairwells are alarmed and kept locked at all times for security protection, and can only be opened from the inside with the panic bar. Security keys will not open these doors from the outside. These doors should be used in emergency only.
3d. No owner or lessee shall place an obstruction of any kind which will prevent passageway on the emergency catwalks in the rear of each apartment. Such catwalks shall not be used as a passageway, except in the event of an emergency. No activity of any kind is permitted on these catwalks.
3f. No owner or lessee will be permitted to install antenna anywhere outside his apartment.
4. WINDOWS
To prevent water damage to your own or adjoining apartments, resident shall close all windows and doors when leaving their apartments. Close the storm shutters when applicable.
5. ROOF
The roof area is off limits to all residents, guests, and visitors. The roof area is restricted to essential building maintenance and service personnel only.
TRASH DISPOSAL
All trash and refuse which the kitchen sink food waste disposal will not process, must be securely bagged and tied in heavy plastic bags and placed in trash chutes between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and
7. Vehicles belonging to outside workman are permitted on the premises between the hours of 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.
8. Unit owners or lessees when parking a vehicle in the garages, will be notified by letter if said vehicle leaks fluid, has a flat tire or has an unsightly appearance. If the owner does NOT respond within 10 days with instruction for repair chargeable to the owner, the vehicle will be towed and stored off the property at the owners’ expense and risk.
9. North Parking Lot: The North parking lot is designated for owners, renters, guests, Plaza South Employees and service people only. (See Site & Deck Plan, Exhibit II, B-1 to Declaration of Condominium for Plaza South)
THE BUILDING
1. BUILDING, COMMON AREAS
MAIN LOUNGE
1a. The main lounge is intended primarily for owner’s community activity, but may be reserved for private functions by owners. Owners who reserve the lounge for private functions may use only the appliances in the kitchen, and must provide their own china, silver, glassware, coffee urns, etc. Association functions shall have precedence over private functions. This facility may not be reserved more than sixty (60) days prior to the date intended for use, when lounge is available. Thirty (30) days notice must be given for cancellation.
1b. Owners desiring to reserve the lounge for private functions should make application in writing to the General Manager. The number of guests at any private function is limited to a maximum allowed by law. A charge, determined by the Board of Directors, will be made for the use of the lounge for private functions.
1c. Association functions are primarily for owners and guests in residence, but upon Board approval, guests may be invited by each owner to a specific function.
1d. No one will use interior furniture while wearing a wet bathing suit or when suntan oils or creams are used. Please protect your furniture and equipment.
1e. All persons using or passing through the lounge must be dressed in suitable attire.
1f. Persons wearing wet bathing suits are not permitted the use of elevators. Persons with dry bathing attire should have proper over garments when using elevators. Wearing of wet bathing suits in lobby, community rooms, halls, and elevators is prohibited. Residents and their guests must not appear barefoot in lobby, recreation room, elevators, or halls.
BILLIARD ROOM
3a. Pool table may not be used by persons under eighteen (18) years of age, unless such persons
are directly supervised by an adult.
3b. Play by individuals shall be limited to one hour if others are waiting to play.
3c. Door must be left open when using Billiard Room.
3d. Key to Billiard Room may be obtained by signing for same at Lobby Security Desk. Only owners
and lessees may sign for key. KEY SIGNER IS FINANCIALLY RESPONSIBLE FOR DAMAGES
TO BILLIARD ROOM AND EQUIPMENT.
GYMNASIUM
Facilities are for use of owners, lessees and their house guests. An adult must accompany children under sixteen (16) years of age. The use of the gymnasium equipment IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE USER AND PLAZA SOUTH ASSOCIATION IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY INJURIES CAUSED BY THE USED OF THE EQUIPMENT OR THE FAILURE OF THE EQUIPMENT. Use of gymnasium for private classes may be arranged through the General Manager.
SAUNAS
The sauna bath is for the use and enjoyment of all owners, lessees and their guests, and the usual courtesies should be observed. These facilities are available for use from the hours of 6:00 A.M. to 10:00 P.M. After using the saunas, please make certain that the switch is in the OFF position.
ARTS AND CRAFTS
Planned activities for this room may be arrange through the General Manager.
SHUFFLEBOARD COURTS
a. Courts may be used betweens the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 9:30 P.M.
b. Please do not walk on shuffleboard playing surfaces.
c. Children under twelve (12) years of age must be accompanied by an adult when using courts.
Children under eight (8) years of age are not permitted to use the courts. Owners are
financially responsible for any damage done to the courts or equipment by themselves,
their families, or their guests.
d. Scheduled tournament games have preference in use of courts
e. Use handle end of cue in assembling discs.
f. Replace equipment in storage boxes upon completion of play.
8. USE OF BICYCLES
8a. Bicycles, which owner or lessee residents ride for pleasure and exercise, must be kept in the bicycle racks in the Parking Garage when not in use. While these bicycles are under the watchful eye of Security Guards, it is recommended that they be chained and locked to the rack itself. It is not permissible to transport bicycles to resident’s apartments on elevators or stairways, nor to store them in apartments. The Plaza South Association, Inc., will not be responsible for theft or damage to all or any part of an owner or lessee’s vehicle while on the property.
8b. It is strictly prohibited to ride bicycles in the garages or anywhere on the premises, except for entering or leaving.
SWIMMING POOL AND BEACH AREA
POOL
1. Anyone USING THE POOL is required to do so in a manner considerate of others and to comply with the following regulations that have been formulated for the purpose of hygiene and the prevention of added repair and maintenance costs. Pool will be open from 9:00 A.M. to 9:30 P.M. daily. Owners, lessees and their guest using the pool shall do so AT THEIR OWN RISK. Children under ten (10) years of age must be supervised and accompanied by an adult, or they will not be permitted to use the pool. Infants wearing diapers or infants under three (3) years of age are not permitted in the pool.
2. A SHOWER is required at the pool area before entering the pool. Those who leave the area and return must shower again before re-entering the pool.
3. No one with an INFECTIOUS DISEASE may enter the pool.
4. The wearing of CUT OFFS OR DUNGAREES is not permitted in the pool.
5. All SUNTAN OILS, creams, etc., must be removed with a shower before entering the pool or when using the patio furniture.
6. No FOOD, BEVERAGES, GUM, BOTTLES, (except plastic water bottles) or other glassware and articles may be taken into the pool area, or ocean patio area. This regulation is to keep the insects and mice out of these areas.
7. No OBJECTS OF ANY KIND are permitted in the pool, except one float aids that is attached to the bather’s body.
8. No one may ENTER THE LOBBY, PASSENGER ELEVATORS OR COMMUNITY ROOM WITH WET BATHING ATTIRE.
9. The pool and other recreational facilities are primarily for the use of owners and lessees and house guests only. Owners are requested to use discretion in inviting visitors.
10. Persons using the pool DO SO AT THEIR OWN RISK. The Plaza South Association Inc. will not be responsible for injuries sustained by persons in or about the pool, patio, or beach.
11. Running and playing games around the pool area are prohibited.
12. All wearing apparel, toweling, etc., must be removed from the area and furniture when not being used for 20 minutes. It is prohibited to reserve chaise lounges or other patio furniture.
13. No PETS are allowed on the beach, in the pool area, or upper deck area. A CITY ORDINANCE, strictly enforced, prohibits dogs or other pets on the beach.
14. The POOL SUPERVISOR AND SECURITY PERSONNEL are authorized to enforce the rules and regulations in the area, and have authority to ask anyone to leave who does not comply.
BEACH AND CABANAS
1. CHAIRS AND LOUNGES from the pool area are not to be taken to the beach or grass area.
2. There are NO LIFEGUARDS on duty at the beach or pool area at any time.
3. The ACCESS DOOR to the beach area must be locked from the outside at all times. Do not unlock the door for persons unknown to you.
4. The access door will be locked from within at 9:30 P.M.
5. SAND AND TAR must be removed from the body before re-entering the pool area or the building. Use equipment and supplies provided near stairway.
6. Boat storage is not permitted on the beach area or sodded area of the premises.
7. THE BEACH is part of the condominium property and is subject to all rules pertaining to guest or visitor usage as previously expressed or implied herein.
8. Available SPACE FOR CABANAS in the reserved section will be on a “first come, first served” basis, at an annual service fee to be determined by the Board of Directors. For this annual service fee the cabana owner will receive the following:
• Daily opening and closing of the cabana.
• Removal, storage, and re-installation upon request when owner is away for a period of one month, or more.
• Automatic removal, storage, and re-installation in the event of a Weather Bureau announced hurricane, or other storm disturbances.
9. Cabana owners agree:
“In requesting my cabana and chairs to be put out on the beach (and stored in my absence), I understand and agree not to hold Plaza South Association, Inc., or any of its employees, responsible for loss due to theft, vandalism, or any natural disaster (weather).”
”I have also read, understand, and agree to abide by all rules set forth by the Cabana Committee.”
CHILDREN AND THEIR ACTIVITIES
1. Children under six (6) years of age must be accompanied outside their apartment at all times by an owner or lessee or a responsible adult. Such children must be supervised at all times while in the recreational area, lobby, and community rooms.
2. Children must wear footwear at all times, except in the pool or beach.
3. Under no circumstances will children be allowed to congregate or run and play in the public rooms, corridors, elevators, stairways, recreational areas, or parking garages.
4. Owners and Lessees are FINANCIALLY RESPONSIBLE for any damage caused by their
children or guests.
PETS
1. The keeping of a dog or other pet is not a right of an apartment owner, but is a conditional license, available only to original owners in residence, and is applicable to a dog or other pet which is being taken into the premises at first occupancy. Such dog or other pet shall not be replaced. This conditional license is subject to termination at any time by the Board of Directors upon a determination that such dog or other pet is annoying to other owners, or has otherwise become a nuisance. The owner of a dog or other pet assumes full liability for all damage to persons and property caused by such dog or pet.
2. Owners of pets are subject to the following conditions and reservations:
2a. Owner’s dog or other pet shall be of a size to be comfortably carried in one’s arms.
2b. A lessee or guest of an owner will not be permitted to bring a dog or other pet into the building.
2c. A dog or other pet must not be curbed near the building, on or near walks, gardens, lawns, driveways, or beach.
2d. Dogs, or other pets, must be carried in arms whenever they appear in corridors or elevators. Pets taken through garage areas or grounds must be on a leash. No pets permitted in the lobby.
2e. No dog, or other pet, shall be allowed on the pool deck or recreation area.
2g. Owners of dogs and other pets must comply with all laws and ordinances of the City of Fort Lauderdale, the County of Broward, and State of Florida, relating to dogs, cats, and other animals and pets. Violations, infractions, or failure of compliance therewith will necessitate elimination of the violator’s dog, cat, animal, or other pet from Plaza South.
2h. Owners must furnish the General Manager a veterinarian’s certificate, indicating that the pet has received its annual rabies shot; also, Broward County animal license number, pet’s name and weight.
2i. When pet dies, or is disposed of, authorization to keep a pet will expire.
SOLICITATION
No apartment owner, lessee or guest of same, or any other person shall be permitted, directly or indirectly, to solicit the sale of services, goods, wares, merchandise, real estate or apartment units within the public areas of facilities, or on the bulletin board of the Plaza South mail room without the General Manager’s permission. The conduct of any business directly or indirectly, by any apartment owner, lessee or guest of same, or any other person, is strictly prohibited within such public areas or facilities. This building is zoned strictly residential and is a non-smoking building.
GENERAL INFORMATION
GENERAL MANAGER’S OFFICE
The General Manager’s office will be open for the transaction of business Monday through Friday from 8:00 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. and 1:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M. In the event of any emergency occurring after hours, contact the Security Desk at 954-565-0607.
EMPLOYEE SERVICE
Complaints or suggestions must clear through the General Manager’s office. Any task or work performed by maintenance employees for an individual apartment owner must be cleared through the General Manager. The General Manager will maintain records of services performed, showing the nature of the work, the apartment number, and charges. Money received will be credited to the Maintenance Fund of Plaza South Association, Inc.
BUILDING EQUIPMENT
Failures should be reported to the General Manager immediately.
BUILDING EMPLOYEES
1. Building employees are not permitted to perform personal services during regular duty hours, except on orders through the General Manager. These arrangements can be made by contacting the maintenance office.
2. The minimum and/or hourly charge to the owner shall be set by the Board of Directors.
3. Any criticism of building employees’ work or conduct should be reported to the General Manager in writing.
4. No owner or guest is authorized to direct or to reprimand any employee of the building, or any tradesmen working under the direction of the General Manager.
5. Owners must not do work or have work performed that may disturb their neighbors, except between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. weekdays. Work is not permitted on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
ELEVATORS
Your elevator installation is a very costly one and quite adequate.
Do not push any call button except in the direction you plan to travel. Buttons should not be pushed more than once, nor should they be held in.
Do not block elevator doors in order to hold an elevator, as an alarm system sounds after a short period, calling personnel to the scene. Also, such holding action is discourteous to other owners.
Playing and joy-riding are prohibited.
In case of power failure, the auxiliary generator will handle only THREE ELEVATORS, C-D, E-F, J-K, and certain emergency lights. Do not panic. Procedures are in effect to clear stalled elevators.
There is an emergency telephone in each elevator. Push button on speaker, release, and speak. Security will answer.
DURING A POWER FAILURE, elevators will stop running momentarily. Please do not be alarmed as there will be a short delay of transfer to emergency power. The car will then proceed slowly to the lobby floor. DO NOT PUSH “STOP” BUTTON. Remember: there is an emergency telephone in each elevator. Push button speaker, release, and speak. Security will answer.
NEXT OF KIN
In the event of an emergency, it is advisable for the office to have some information about each owner. Please complete an information form, which is available at the office.
DELIVERIES
If you are not at home when delivery is made, goods and packages (except heavy and bulky items) will be accepted and kept in the Receiving Room in the basement. You will be informed of their arrival. The Association shall not be responsible for any loss or damage to such property. However, normal care and surveillance will be accorded them while they are in our custody. The Receiving Room hours are from 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. weekdays, except for emergencies. NO deliveries of any kind on Saturday, Sunday or Holidays.
RESPONSIBILITY FOR DAMAGE
Owners shall be liable for all damages to the building and elevators caused by receiving deliveries or moving or removing furniture or other articles to and from the building.
DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY
Owners shall be liable for all damages to the building and elevators caused by receiving deliveries of moving or removing furniture or other articles to and from the building. If any of these acts are committed by the owners, or an owner’s employee, his child, his guest, or his lessee, the owner shall pay the cost of restoring or replacing the area damaged, or the furnishings, furniture, or equipment damaged. There is a receivable deposit while moving in or out of residence at Plaza South to cover any damage to the elevator.
LOCKS
Plaza South will keep a duplicate key to all apartments to be used only in emergency. No apartment owner shall alter his apartment entrance door lock or install a new lock without supplying the Security Desk with a duplicate key for the use of Plaza South in case of emergency. Use of emergency keys must be signed for when taken.
Every effort will be made to maintain maximum security at all times. However, since it will be impossible to exercise constant surveillance, the cooperation of residents is a necessity. Keep your apartment door locked at all times whether you are in the apartment or not.
SHOPPING CARTS AND CLOTHES/LUGGAGE CARRIERS
There are grocery carts in the three garage levels and clothes/luggage carriers in the Receiving Room for use by residents.
All residents are requested to return all carts and carriers to their respective storage spaces immediately after use. This does not mean to merely put them on an elevator and then program the elevator to return to the lobby or garage areas. If resident cannot return units to their respective storage points, that resident is respectfully requested not to use the carts or carriers.
It is especially important that residents not leave these units in their apartments overnight. They represent common property and are there for the use of all owners.
SELLING OR LEASING APARTMENTS
The Declaration of Condominium requires that all purchasers or lessees of apartments be approved in advance by the Association. The procedure is as follows:
a) The General Manager will provide an application form for the prospective new owner or lessee to complete and return to the General Manager’s office, along with a check for the processing fee, as well as a copy of the Deposit Contract or the Lease Agreement.
b) All applicants, including husband and wife, must be interviewed personally by the Membership Committee. No applications will be approved without these personal interviews. Interviews are scheduled in advance, at a pre-arranged date and time, convenient to both applicant and the Membership committee, at Plaza South. Since the interview is an essential element of application, the application should bear the same date as that of the interview.
c) On approval, a proper certificate will be provided.
d) New residents, before occupying apartments resulting from resale or lease, must register with the Management upon arrival. The General Manager will furnish the new owners or lessees with a copy of the Rules and Regulations.
e) children under eighteen (18) years of age shall not occupy an apartment unless a parent or other adult relative is in residence at the same time.
STAIRWAYS AND CATWALKS
The stairways are accessible at all times. However, the bottom exterior doors are kept locked at all times for security protection. You may use these doors to exit only in emergency. You cannot re-enter when these doors close behind you. DO NOT PROP THESE DOORS OPEN TO GAIN ACCESS LATER. No owner shall place an obstruction of any kind so as to prevent passage on the catwalks and passageways leading to the fire towers. This is in accordance with the code set forth by the FIRE MARSHAL and is to be strictly enforced.
NOISE
All musical instruments, televisions, tape players and radios shall be controlled so that they do not disturb other families at any time. Loud talking and noisy parties disturb other people. Please keep this in mind. A City ordinance prohibits excessive noise.
MAIDS AND HEALTH CAREGIVERS
If a resident makes arrangements for this service, the Security Guard must be informed, so that he may check and register their identification. No security keys or garage openers shall be given to outside help without prior management authorization.
REPAIRMEN AND OUTSIDE SERVICE PEOPLE
Owners must arrange directly with repairmen and outside service people for inside apartment requirements. Management is not permitted to admit anyone to your apartment without your written authorization. Except in cases of emergency, repairmen and outside service people must limit their hours from 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. on weekdays. Outside service people are not allowed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, except in emergencies with the knowledge of the management.
GOING AWAY? – CLOSING UP TIPS
When you plan to leave your apartment for an extended time, the following important suggestions are set forth for your protection.
1. REFRIGERATOR AND PLUMBING
Disconnect, defrost, and leave refrigerator door ajar. SHUT OFF MAIN WATER LINE TO YOUR APARTMENT (ORANGE VALVE).
2. ELECTRICITY
circuit breaker leading to your water heater should be on “OFF” position. (Caution: On your return, make sure your water heater is filled with water before throwing circuit breakers back to “ON” position). All other circuit breakers should be thrown to “OFF” position, except those leading to your thermostat and air conditioning.
3. AIR CONDITIONING
To assure that a certain minimal amount of circulation will take place while you are away in the summer, it is well to set your thermostat at about 80 degrees. At this level your unit will seldom run – just enough to keep the air freshened. (An alternative is to leave a key with a neighbor and ask them to turn your fan to “ON” position periodically).
4. TELEPHONE
You may wish to place your telephone on suspended service. If so, simply call the phone company and instruct the representative accordingly.
5. DOORS AND WINDOWS
All windows and doors should be left in locked position. Blinds may also be drawn to protect drapes and carpets from sun rays.
6. DELIVERIES AND HOUSE PLANTS
Remember to stop newspapers, and all other deliveries. Instruct Post Office regarding mail delivery. Ask a neighbor to “board” houseplants for you.
STORMS AND HURRICANES
During the past two decades, Florida has experienced a staggering population growth. Many new residents are continuing to locate along hurricane vulnerable beaches. Today in Monroe (the Keys), Dade, and Broward Counties, we have a population well in excess of two million people. It is estimated that 75% to 80% of these residents have never experienced a major hurricane. The last direct hit by a major hurricane was Hurricane Andrew in 1992.
Fringe experiences with past hurricanes have created false impressions that could result in poor decisions during the next bad hurricane. Hurricanes are tropical cyclones in which winds reach speeds of 74 miles per hour or more, and blow in a large spiral around a relatively calm center – known as the eye of the hurricane. The eye, like the spiral structure of the storm, is unique to hurricanes. Here the winds are light and skies are clear or partly cloudy. This calm is deceptive because hurricane force winds and torrential rains follow it. Many persons have been killed or injured when the deceiving quiet of the eye has lured them out of shelter, only to be caught in the hurricane winds at the far side of the eye.
The giant whirlwinds of the hurricane spiral reach maximum velocity in a circular band extending outward 20 or 30 miles from the rim of the eye. This circulation is counter clockwise. Near the eye, hurricane winds can go to more than 200 miles per hour. The entire storm can dominate the ocean surface and lower atmosphere for tens of thousands of square miles – a hurricane’s greatest threat.
A tornado can be a by-product of hurricanes as well. When associated with a hurricane, a tornado may be found on the periphery of the storm, many times well in advance or after the hurricane winds. The tornado usually affects only a very small area, but may have winds in excess of 300 m.p.h. Tornados and waterspouts (tornadoes over water) are sighted almost weekly during the summer.
Each of us must develop a very healthy respect for major hurricanes, the devastation that can occur in such a storm, the limitations of the warning systems that exist, and then form our own plan of action determining exactly what we intend to do prior to and during the next hurricane strike.
The hurricane season, which is also our rainy season, is generally reported to be the period between June 1st and December 1st. (However, the storms occur most frequently in August, September, and October). If you are in residence at Plaza South during a bad storm, rest assured that our building was built to meet the stringent South Florida building codes. You would probably be wise to remain calm, batten down your own apartment.
Remember:
1. When an Evacuation Order is issued, IT IS MANDATORY EVACUATION, by the Governor’s Office. Residents who will need assistance to evacuate should contact the office to place their name on our assistance list prior to any emergency.
2. We are living on a peninsular – there are only so many roads going north. When you leave, do not wait until the last minute.
SUGGESTED STEPS TO BE TAKEN WHEN PREPARING FOR A HURRICANE:
1) As long as we have electric power, keep your TV tuned to a good network station – channels 4, 7, or 10 (our auxiliary generator is designed to provide power for limited service, exit lighting, hall lights, and run elevators. The following elevators will run on auxiliary power:
C-D, E-F and J-K
Use elevators only when absolutely necessary. Do not enter the fire escape stairs except to exit in the event of an emergency).
2) Keep on hand an AM/FM battery powered radio (transistor preferred) with fresh batteries.
3) Have candles, matches, lamps, flashlights with fresh batteries and bulbs) and a Sterno stove on hand.
4) Have a good stock of canned foods and milk on hand along with a non-electric can opener.
5) Keep several gallons of good drinking water on hand.
6) Because your water supply many be interrupted, sterilize your bathtub and other containers and fill with water.
7) To conserve refrigerated food, turn your refrigerator and your food freezer to colder settings. Open only when absolutely necessary and close quickly. (Electric service may be damaged or shut off when winds reach hurricane force to avoid fallen live wires that cause electrocution with body contact).
8) Have your storm panels installed securely (or closed tightly).
9) You must remove everything from your balcony. In a hurricane, your furniture is a flying missile and can injure, kill or cause severe damage to windows.
10) Be sure all awning vent windows are closed tightly. Remember the Plaza South Association assumes no responsibility for damage due to winds or water.
11) Before putting your automobile in the garage, it might be wise to fill your gasoline tank. Excessive flooding might contaminate the local supply at filling stations (and gas pumps might not be operating if electric power is off).
IN CASE OF FIRE
High-rise buildings, such as Plaza South, are generally fire resistant and possess reliable enclosed stairways. Fires are usually confined to individual apartment furnishings. It is therefore important to understand that a fire in our building is no cause for panic. Generally, the inhalation of smoke is far more dangerous than the fire itself.
If a fire occurs within your own apartment, on, or close to your floor level, it will most likely be necessary for you to seek safety as soon as possible. It is extremely important that you and your family become well acquainted with the fire stairways provided at the A-B TOWER FOYERS, the E-F CATWALK AREAS and the N-P TOWER FOYERS of our building. Doors to these stairways are never locked and are checked to make sure that they are never blocked, but are always kept closed.
The stairway at the A-B tower base opens to the front and outside of the building.
The stairway from the E-F catwalk areas opens onto the pool deck. You may exit the pool deck by using any one of the three doors leading down from the pool deck.
The stairway from the N-P tower base opens onto the North parking lot.
Every resident should be familiar with the location of all exit stairways on each floor. You and your family should discuss in advance what you will do if the closest stairway cannot be used. You should pre-determine a location outside the building for your family to meet after leaving the building. You may become separated while leaving the building if everyone exits at once. If you follow these suggestions you will greatly reduce your chance of being a fatality in the event of a fire or other emergency. Always carry your security key with you in order to be able to return to the building.
1) In case of fire, immediately call the Fire Department by dialing 911. Tell the dispatcher your floor and your apartment number, as well as our street address. Also give him the name of our building. Do not assume that anyone else has already called the Fire Department.
2) Before trying to leave your apartment, place your hand on the inside of the door, palm down. If the doors feel warm to the touch within 5 seconds, do not attempt to open it as this indicates the presence of a dangerous fire condition in the corridor.
3) If the door is not warm to the touch, carefully open it a small amount so you may check for the presence of smoke in the corridor. Place your weight against the door as you open it. This will allow you to quickly close the door behind you. DO NOT LOCK THE DOOR.
4) If you feel that the corridor may be used, alert the occupants of other apartments on your floor by pulling the nearest fire alarm box and then immediately proceed to the closest exit stairway. Be sure to close the door behind you, but do not lock it. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO USE ANY ELEVATOR. The elevator you board may “freeze” on the floor where the fire exists and elevator shafts are natural flues for fire. If the elevators are functioning, the fire fighters need them to get to the fire.
5) If your apartment door is warm to the touch, or if there is heavy smoke in the corridor, keep your doors closed. Seal cracks around the door, and any other places where smoke appears to be entering with wet towels, blankets, or other material. TURN OFF YOUR AIR CONDITIONING UNIT.
6) If you cannot leave your apartment, stay calm until rescue personnel direct you to safety. Remember, they are trained to handle such situations; you are not. Do not lock your doors so that a quick search by rescue personnel may be conducted to determine if everyone is safely out of the apartment.
7) If some smoke enters your apartment, open one window slightly as near to the ceiling as possible. Remain close to the floor and use the cooler and fresher air available at that level.
8) Do not attempt to remove your automobile from its parking space in the garage. This will only cause traffic congestion and hamper the efforts of the Fire Department.
9) Do not re-enter the building until permitted to do so by the Fire Department. No possession you have is a fair trade for your life.
10) The alarm located in the foyer ceiling of your apartment must not be disconnected – Doing so will send false signals to the main fire security station in the building. The unit Owner will be responsible for any cost incurred.
AMENDMENT – ARTICLE 10 – USE RESTRICTIONS AND LEASING
To be added –
No lease will be permitted during the first twelve (12) calendar months of ownership, commencing with the date of closing of title
