Milestone Inspections in Florida
Florida Engineering: The Key to Compliant Milestone Inspections & Repairs
Florida Engineering LLC provides milestone inspection services for buildings throughout Florida. Share the property address, building information, and any notice you received so our team can review the requested inspection scope. The sections below describe our inspection services; project requirements need to be checked for the particular building.
Related services: Condominium Inspections · Structural Integrity Reserve Study/SIRS
What is a "Milestone Inspection" in Florida?
Florida’s milestone inspection program is established by section 553.899, Florida Statutes. It evaluates the structural condition of covered residential condominium and cooperative buildings. A milestone inspection is different from a reserve study and from a local structural/electrical recertification program.
Why is a Milestone Inspection in Florida Important?
The statewide program covers residential condominium and cooperative buildings with three or more habitable stories, subject to statutory exceptions. The normal first inspection is due by December 31 of the year the building reaches 30, followed by inspections every 10 years. A local enforcement agency may require the first inspection at 25 because of local conditions, including saltwater exposure.
The exception for one- through four-family dwellings with three or fewer habitable stories is not a blanket exemption for all three-story buildings. See the coverage and exceptions in section 553.899.
What's the Difference Between a Phase 1 and a Phase 2 Inspection?
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.
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.
How to Prepare for a Milestone Inspection
Preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and successful milestone inspection. Property managers and owners should begin by gathering all building records, including maintenance logs, structural reports, and renovation histories. It's also important to inform tenants about the inspection, its purpose, and how it may affect their daily lives.
Key Points:
- Before the Inspection: Ensure complete building records are available and accessible. Have any previous inspection or repair documentation ready.
- During the Inspection: Provide clear communication with tenants, advising them on what to expect and how the inspection might impact their routines.
- Post-Inspection: After the inspection, follow the guidance provided in the report. If repairs are necessary, work closely with licensed professionals to complete them promptly and in compliance with Florida law.
What Types of Buildings Require Milestone Inspections?
- Confirm residential condominium/cooperative ownership and habitable story count.
- Use the certificate of occupancy or the building official’s occupancy records to establish building age.
- Check the local enforcement agency’s notice, earlier inspection records, and any approved extension.
A hurricane concern may call for a separate condition assessment; a storm is not an automatic age trigger under the milestone schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Milestone Inspections
The Choice Is Clear
Veteran-owned. Family-owned. Engineering throughout Florida.
Top in the Industry
125+ Combined Years of Engineering Experience
State-Wide Licensing
Florida Counties
Commitment to Excellence
State Authorizations
Engineering experience behind your inspection
Our inspection teams are led by Tony Boumitri, P.E., Special Inspector, who has more than 35 years of experience in design, inspection, and construction support. Our team brings 125+ combined years of engineering experience. Meet our signing engineers.
We provide milestone inspections, reserve studies, and engineering repair plans within the agreed scope. We do not perform construction or installation. An engineering report documents findings and recommendations; it does not guarantee that a building is free of all defects.
