When Disaster Strikes, Owners Deserve Answers
It’s been over two years since Hurricane Ian hit Fort Myers Beach Florida, but for many timeshare owners at properties like Mariners Boathouse and Windward Passage Resort, the storm’s aftermath is still unfolding—with no end in sight. When it comes to timeshare insurance: Are you really covered?
David Gliedo, a longtime owner at Mariners Boathouse, shared his growing frustration with WINK News:
“It’s embarrassing. Nothing’s been done.”
Owners like Gliedo are still paying maintenance fees for units they haven’t been able to use since the storm in 2022. The lack of access is troubling—but even more troubling is the silence. Many haven’t received clear updates on insurance claims, repair timelines, or when they might return.
This isn’t just about one resort. It’s a cautionary tale for all timeshare owners: Do you know what your HOA’s insurance actually covers?
What HOA Insurance Often Covers—And What It Doesn’t
Most owners assume their timeshare association’s insurance will handle major disasters. But that’s only partially true. While HOA (Homeowners Association) insurance typically covers shared structures and common areas, it may not cover:
- Damage inside individual units
- Personal property
- High deductibles
- Special exclusions for hurricanes, floods, or mold
In many cases, the HOA’s policy is limited—and owners are still on the hook for certain losses. The distinction between common element repairs and unit-specific responsibilities can be blurry and confusing without legal or insurance guidance.
Special Assessments: The Hidden Cost of Recovery
When the master insurance policy falls short or carries a large deductible, the HOA may issue special assessments to all deeded timeshare owners on the roster. These surprise charges can range from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars.
In one case in Colorado, a condo owner received an $8,000 assessment to cover roof repairs—even though his unit had no visible damage. The HOA needed to pay the deductible, and every owner was required to contribute.
Timeshare owners, particularly those with limited or occasional access to their units, are especially vulnerable. Without clear communication and oversight, these financial demands can come out of nowhere.
Lack of Transparency: A Common and Concerning Pattern
What’s happening in Fort Myers Beach is not an isolated incident. Following hurricanes, fires, or other disasters, HOA boards and management companies often struggle to keep timeshare owners informed. This breakdown in communication can often create mistrust and uncertainty.
WINK News shared a post made by a Mariners Boathouse representative in January 2025 addressing owner concerns, stating, “Regarding the work schedule and reopening date, we understand the importance of this information, but due to factors beyond the general contractor’s control, such as funding and insurance, we are unable to provide a specific date at this time.”
Timeshare owners at Mariners Boathouse have reported:
- No clear repair timeline
- No regular updates on insurance claims
- No explanation of ongoing maintenance fees
Looking at the situation, you have to wonder—why are timeshare owners met with silence? They’re paying into a system that doesn’t seem to offer much in the way of clarity or accountability.
What Timeshare Owners Should Be Asking Right Now
If you own a timeshare—especially in a coastal or storm-prone area—here are some important questions to raise with your HOA or management company:
- What does the master insurance policy cover—and what doesn’t it?
- What is the amount of the insurance policy and the deductible?
- Has the insurance policy been factored into a reserve study?
- How are special assessments calculated and approved?
- Who selects repair vendors, and are owners consulted or informed?
- Is there a reserve fund allocation for disasters or major repairs?
- What is the standard communication protocol after a disaster?
Legal Support Can Help You Navigate the Unknown
In moments of crisis or prolonged uncertainty—like the aftermath of a natural disaster or an unexpected assessment—having experienced legal support isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. Timeshare and condominium ownership often comes with a web of contracts, insurance policies, and HOA regulations that can be difficult to interpret without professional guidance. That’s where we come in.
At our firm, we represent timeshare and condo owners across a range of complex issues, including insurance claim disputes, delayed or mismanaged property repairs, and lapses in HOA accountability. We know how emotionally and financially taxing it can be when you’re kept in the dark about what’s happening with your timeshare property, or worse—when you’re being asked to pay more without a clear explanation.
We can help you if you’re dealing with:
- Confusion about what your HOA’s insurance actually covers versus what you may be personally responsible for
- Ongoing maintenance fees for a property you can’t access or use due to damage or closure
- Poor communication or a complete lack of updates from your HOA or management company
- Sudden or excessive special assessments that weren’t properly explained or justified
Our goal is to bring clarity, accountability, and legal options to the table so that you’re not left feeling powerless or alone. Whether you need someone to review your documents, intervene on your behalf, or take action against a negligent timeshare HOA, we’re here to guide you through the process and protect your rights every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or in the dark about your timeshare’s insurance coverage or your HOA’s responsibilities, know this—you’re not alone. Many owners find themselves blindsided by vague policies, unexpected assessments, and long periods of silence from their boards or management companies after a crisis. It’s not just confusing—it can be financially and emotionally draining.
But you don’t have to navigate this process alone. Our legal team is experienced in helping timeshare and condominium owners understand their rights, decode complex insurance and HOA documents, and push for the transparency and accountability you deserve.
Whether you’re dealing with delayed repairs on your timeshare condo, rising fees, or uncertain next steps, we’re here to advocate for you. Don’t wait until the next storm—or the next special assessment—forces you to act. Reach out to our office today for a personalized consultation. Let us help you gain the clarity, confidence, and legal support you need to protect your investment and your peace of mind.
Disclosure: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Images included are used for illustrative and artistic purposes only and do not depict actual individuals, events, or specific locations.
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Led by timeshare attorneys J. Andrew Meyer and Michael D. Finn with over 75 years of combined legal experience. The Finn Law Group is a national consumer protection firm that specializes in Timeshare Law. If you feel you need the services of a timeshare attorney, please contact our office for a free consultation in office or by phone. Call us today at 855-FINN-LAW. Be sure to follow us on Twitter X for more on timeshare related issues.