Keep Your Building Safe and Compliant With a Florida Milestone Inspection!

On May 26, 2022, a significant milestone was reached in building safety, thanks to Governor Ron DeSantis signing Senate Bill SB 4-D.

This pivotal legislation mandates structural integrity assessments, known as Milestone Inspections, for condominiums and cooperative buildings 25 or 30 years old, with three or more stories. These vital inspections, performed by licensed architects or engineers, are crucial for ensuring the safety and structural integrity of buildings throughout Florida.

At Florida Engineering LLC, we're poised as your Milestone Inspection experts. Our expansive network of seasoned, licensed engineers and architects across the state ensures your peace of mind through streamlined processes, quick turnaround, and strict compliance, no matter where you are in Florida. Trust us to be your reliable partner in navigating these essential safety requirements with expertise and efficiency.

Fast, Affordable, Reliable Services
Phase 1 Milestone Inspections at Florida Engineering LLC begin with a meticulous visual assessment, leveraging advanced drone technology to identify any structural wear and tear. Our experts deliver a comprehensive inspection report, complete with a summary, actionable recommendations, and essential supporting materials, all officially signed and sealed. Should Phase 1 uncover significant structural concerns, we proceed to Phase 2 Milestone Inspection. This critical next step involves in-depth testing to verify the building's structural integrity, ensuring its safety and stability for years to come.
Structural Integrity Reserve Studies (SIRS)
Our Structural Integrity Reserve Studies (SIRS) provide a forward-looking analysis, estimating the reserve funds required for future repairs or replacements of common structural elements. This ensures your building remains well-maintained and sustainable, safeguarding its value and functionality.

What is a Milestone Inspection in Florida?

The Florida condo milestone inspection stands as a sentinel for safety and compliance. This inspection is instituted by the Florida Statutes section 553.899. It’s a rigorous inspection for buildings, especially condominiums and cooperatives that are three stories or higher.

 

Why is this important? It’s about the safety and durability of the structures Florida residents inhabit. These structures become susceptible to wear and tear with age, potentially compromising their structural integrity. This is especially important here in Florida with the harsh weather and tropical storms we are battered by yearly. That’s where the milestone inspection intervenes!

 

Based on the certificate of occupancy date, buildings are mandated to have their initial milestone inspection around the time they turn 30. And this isn't a one-time event, a subsequent inspection every 10 years ensures the building remains at its prime.

 

However, it's essential to note that not every structure in Florida needs this inspection. Single-family, two-family, or structures with three or fewer habitable stories above ground are exempt.

Phase 1 vs. Phase 2 Inspections

Understanding the inspection process is crucial. The process is broken down into two distinct phases:


  • Phase 1: This is the primary line of defense. Licensed Florida engineers delve into a comprehensive visual examination of your building. Beyond just a cursory look, they assess both habitable and non-habitable areas, focusing on the building's backbone - its major structural components. The aim is to vouch for the building's structural soundness, ensuring it poses no risks to life or safety. But remember, it’s not about current building or fire safety codes. It’s about the overall health and stability of the structure. If all is well and there are no red flags, the inspection concludes here.

  • Phase 2: Think of this as the deep dive. Phase 2 is more intensive and only invoked if Phase 1 identifies substantial structural concerns. It involves potential tests that can be both non-destructive and destructive. This phase’s objective is to gauge the full scope of structural distress and create a roadmap for the necessary repairs.

Who Needs a Milestone Inspection?

If you're reading this and thinking, “Is my building on this list?”. Here is a straightforward guideline. Do you live in or manage a condominium or cooperative association in Florida? Is your building standing three stories tall or more? 

If yes, then a Florida condo milestone inspection might very well be in your future. It’s essential to stay proactive especially if your building is approaching its milestone age of 30. 

After all, compliance with the Florida Statute section 553.899 isn't just about following the law - it’s about sleeping well at night and working towards the safety and well-being of all occupants.


Why Choose Us For Florida Milestone Inspections?

You have options in getting your milestone inspection.  Why choose Florida Engineering? Here’s what keeps our partners coming back for each subsequent inspection they need:

  • Unparalleled Expertise: With over 30 years of experience in the realm of structural inspections and structural engineering, we've seen it all. Our seasoned team has honed their skills on a myriad of projects, ensuring your building gets a thorough, expert evaluation.

  • Commitment to Excellence: Our growth as one of the fastest-growing Engineering Firms in the country is a testament to our commitment to setting and surpassing industry standards. Every inspection we undertake is a showcase of our dedication to excellence.

  • Timely Turnarounds: We understand the significance of time, especially when it comes to building safety and compliance. We promise quotes within one business day, ensuring you can move forward with speed and assurance.

  • Transparent Communication: At Florida Engineering, you're never left in the dark. Our communication is not only consistent but clear and concise. Every step, every finding, every recommendation, you and your condominium is kept in the loop.

  • State-Wide Licensing: Being licensed in Florida gives us a unique edge. We're experts in state-wide regulations. This ensures that your milestone inspection in Florida is not only thorough, but also aligned with the state’s specific requirements.

  • Family-Owned, Veteran-Owned: Florida Engineering is a family-owned business.  This foundation means we operate with integrity, honor, and a commitment to safeguarding communities.

Our reputation precedes us. Thousands of architects, contractors, developers, and property owners have trusted us with their engineering needs since 2014. 


What Happens After Your Inspection is Complete?

What comes after we finish your milestone inspection in Florida? After we've delved deep into the structures, assessing and analyzing, we share our findings. Whether it’s the Phase 1 or the more intensive Phase 2, we provide a comprehensive, detailed report, bearing the seal and signature of our licensed Florida Engineer. 


This document offers insights into your building’s structural conditions and potential areas of concern.  And as per regulations, the association is also in the loop. A summary of our report can be shared with every condo unit owner. This collective approach ensures everyone is informed and aware, making the community a safer place.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Florida Engineering

What is the focus of the Milestone Inspection?
At Florida Engineering, our primary objective during a Milestone Inspection is to identify any deficiencies within the building that may pose structural or safety risks to its inhabitants. Our goal is not to ensure complete compliance with all codes but to ascertain the building's safety.
Upon receiving the Milestone Report, what are the next steps for a condominium association?
Upon receipt of the Milestone Report, condominium associations are required to undertake the following steps: Distribution: The report must be sent via mail or personal delivery. Also, it should be transmitted electronically to unit owners who have opted to receive notices this way. Accessibility: A copy of the report should be prominently displayed in a visible location within the condominium premises. Online Publication: For condominiums with more than 150 units, the report must be published on the association's official website. Submission to Authorities: The engineer responsible for the inspection must submit the Milestone Report to the local building department that issued the request for inspection.
Timeline for Commencing Repairs Post-Milestone Report
If the Milestone Report identifies the need for repairs, the condominium association is mandated to initiate these repairs within one year from the date of receipt of the report.
Phase 2 Report: Expectation and Triggers
Expectation: A Phase 2 Report may not be required if the building is deemed in satisfactory condition. However, should there be known issues with the building, it is imperative to communicate this at the time of requesting a quote.
Triggers for a Phase 2 Report
A Phase 2 Report becomes necessary when further information is essential to assess the condition or to evaluate the feasibility of repairs to critical structural components. This may involve destructive testing or the need for additional access to communal areas.