When it comes to ensuring the safety and integrity of balconies in public lodging establishments, Florida has stringent regulations in place. At Florida Engineering, we understand the importance of these regulations and are here to help you navigate through the process. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions about balcony inspections in Florida, provide insights into the requirements, and explain how we can assist you in staying compliant.
What are the balcony inspection requirements for hotels in Florida?
In Florida, public lodging establishments that are three stories or more in height are required to undergo regular balcony inspections to ensure the safety and structural integrity of these structures. According to the Florida Statutes, Title XXXIII, Chapter 509, Section 509.2112, these establishments must file a certificate stating that all balconies, platforms, stairways, and railways have been inspected by a qualified professional and are deemed safe and free of defects (Florida Senate).
How often do balconies need to be inspected in Florida?
The law mandates that these inspections occur every three years. The initial inspection and filing of the certificate must have commenced by January 1, 1991, with subsequent inspections and filings required every three years thereafter (Florida Senate).
What is the DBPR-HR-7020 form for balcony inspections?
The DBPR-HR-7020, also known as the “Certificate of Balcony Inspection,” is the form required by the Division of Hotels and Restaurants of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). This form must be completed by a licensed professional who certifies that the balconies and other elevated structures are safe and free of defects. The form can be accessed and downloaded here.
Who can perform balcony inspections in Florida?
Balcony inspections must be performed by a licensed professional engineer or architect who is qualified to assess the structural integrity of these components. The professional must be competent to conduct such inspections and provide an official certification of safety (MyFloridaLicense).
What happens if a hotel fails to file the required balcony inspection certificate in Florida?
Failure to file the required inspection certificate can result in administrative sanctions imposed by the Division of Hotels and Restaurants. These sanctions are governed by Section 509.261 of the Florida Statutes and may include fines, suspension, or revocation of the establishment’s license (Florida Senate).
Are there specific rules for inspecting balconies near the coastline in Florida?
While the general requirement is every three years, buildings within three miles of the coastline may be subject to more stringent inspection schedules due to increased exposure to environmental stressors such as saltwater corrosion. Local jurisdictions, such as Miami-Dade and Broward counties, have additional regulations for buildings within these areas to ensure enhanced safety (Miami Dade Gov) (City of Pompano Beach).
What is included in a balcony inspection report for Florida lodging establishments?
A comprehensive balcony inspection report should include:
- A detailed assessment of the structural integrity of balconies, platforms, stairways, and railways.
- Identification of any defects or safety issues.
- Recommendations for repairs or maintenance if necessary.
- Certification by a licensed professional engineer or architect stating that the structures are safe for use.
How do I file a balcony inspection certificate with the Florida DBPR?
To file the certificate, complete the DBPR-HR-7020 form and submit it to the Division of Hotels and Restaurants. The form must also be filed with the applicable county or municipal authority responsible for building and zoning permits. The process involves both physical submission and, increasingly, online submission via the DBPR’s online services portal (MyFloridaLicense).
What are the penalties for not complying with balcony inspection laws in Florida?
Penalties for non-compliance can include fines, suspension of licenses, or even closure of the establishment until compliance is achieved. The Division of Hotels and Restaurants enforces these penalties to ensure public safety and adherence to building codes (Florida Senate).
Where can I find the 2023 Florida Statutes on balcony inspections for public lodging establishments?
The 2023 Florida Statutes detailing the requirements for balcony inspections can be found under Title XXXIII, Chapter 509. Specifically, Section 509.2112 addresses the inspection rules for public lodging establishments three stories or more in height. The statutes are accessible online at the Florida Senate’s official website here.
Why Choose Florida Engineering for Your Balcony Inspections?
When you choose Florida Engineering to perform your balcony inspection, you can rest assured that you will be working with certified inspectors who have considerable experience with performing inspections that are in compliance with Florida State requirement DBPR-HR-7020, otherwise known as the “Division of Hotels and Restaurants Certificate of Balcony Inspection.”
Each balcony receives a thorough visual inspection that includes fasteners, railings, ledger boards, wall attachments, and decking. All stairwell railings are also inspected.
At the end of the inspection, the property owner receives a comprehensive report detailing how many units were inspected and how many deficiencies were noted. Each deficiency is described in the report so that the property owner can take steps to have it addressed.
Once repairs and updates are complete, the inspector will return to the property to ensure that all deficiencies have been resolved.
Contact Us – The Balcony Inspection Experts Near Me – Florida’s Balcony Inspection Experts
- Phone: 941-391-5980
- Email: contact@fleng.com
- Address: 4161 Tamiami Trail, Suite 101, Port Charlotte, FL 33952
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This comprehensive guide aims to address all aspects of balcony inspections in Florida, ensuring that public lodging establishments adhere to safety standards and regulatory requirements. For expert inspection services, trust Florida Engineering to keep your structures safe and compliant.
[This above text is for information purposes only and does not constitute engineering or legal advice. Please consult a professional engineer and licensed attorney for any specific answers to your questions about balcony inspections and the legal obligations balcony inspections entail.]
