The Ultimate Boca Raton Building Inspection Guide: What’s new

boca raton building recertification guide

The Ultimate Boca Raton Building Inspection Guide: What’s new

The new Boca Raton Building Safety Inspection is a crucial public safety program that ensures Building Owners are keeping up with their building maintenance and keeping them safe for their residents. In this comprehensive Bocan Raton Building Inspection guide we will go over all of the new changes to Florida condo inspection laws and how to proceed with getting them done. We created These new changes after the unfortunate event at the Champlain Towers in Surfside.

Boca Raton is moving forward with the new Building Safety Inspection regulations for condos and other large structures. We will also provide you with the contact information for the Boca Raton Building department so you can contact them if any of your questions weren’t answered in this article. We have inspected thousands of Buildings in South Florida so if you need a building inspector in Boca Raton we would be happy to help.

What are the new Condo Inspection laws in Boca Raton

What has changed with the Building Inspection laws in Boca Raton and is the 40-year inspection still required? The new Boca Building Safety Inspection program replaces the previous 40-year inspection. Although there are many changes to the building inspection laws there are also many parts of it that have remained the same. For example, the 40-year inspection required a structural and electrical inspection in Boca. These two components are still required but instead of having to complete these inspections when your building reaches 40 years of age, it is now required after 25 years. The subsequent inspections remain the same and are due every 10 years after your last inspection whether it was the 40-year inspection or the new Boca Building Recertification program.

Another factor that remains the same in the new building guidelines is the specific requirements. The new inspection laws state that Buildings over 3 stories tall that are 3,500 square feet or more require the inspection process to be completed. If you read somewhere that there is also a 30-year inspection you are right. The new Florida-mandated building inspection laws state that if your building is more than 3 miles from the coast then the inspection is due after 30 years, however, because Boca Raton is part of Broward County they are not including this. Instead, all Buildings in Boca Raton are required to complete the inspection after 25 years regardless of its proximity to the coast.

One additional requirement that was added to the condo inspection laws is the Structural Integrity Reserve Study. The SIRS study is an additional inspection that examines the condition of your Building and creates an estimated maintenance and repair cost. This allows Building Owners in Boca to prepare by having the funds available to complete these inspections. Building Maintenance and Repairs can add up quickly so having an estimated cost of what it would cost to repair is beneficial for getting prepared to complete your inspections.

Is my building in Boca required to complete the Building safety inspection?

If you’re wondering whether your Building in Boca is required to complete the inspection we have you covered. Let’s go over the requirements. If your building is 3,500 square feet or more and is 3 stories tall or more then you are required to complete the Building Safety Inspection. Since Broward has a county-wide requirement every 25 years that means your Building will require you to pass the Building Safety Inspection program when your Building reaches 25 years old. If your Building is getting close to that age you should make sure you have updated your contact info because the Boca Raton Building department will send you a certified letter letting you know your building is up for inspection.

However, it is the Building Owner’s responsibility to follow up with the building department if you do not receive the letter. The best way to check if your building is due for an inspection is to contact the Boca Raton Building Department. We have included their contact info below for your convienence. Although we aim to provide you with the most comprehensive Boca Raton Building Inspection guide these laws can change at any moment so it is always best to contact the building department to ensure you have the latest information.

BOCA RATON BUILDING DEPARTMENT

200 NW 2nd Ave, Boca Raton, FL 33432

(561) 393-7930

[email protected]

Hours

8:00am-4:00pm M-F W 8:00am-3:00pm

What if my building already passed the Boca 40 year inspection?

If your building is older then you have probably already completed a 40-year inspection at some point and are continuing with the subsequent inspections every 10 years. If this is the case then you can carry on with these inspections. The inspection procedures remain the same and the Boca Building Inspector who is carrying out these subsequent inspections should be informed of any additional requirements at the time of your next inspection. There is one extra step that is now required which is the SIRS Study which is short for Structural Integrity reserve study. The SIRS study examines the current condition of your building and calculates the estimated cost of repairing and maintaining your building. This is used so that Building Owners and Propery Managers in Boca have the funds available when it comes down to their next inspection.

What buildings in Boca are exempt from the Building Safety Inspection?

There are some Buildings in Boca Raton Florida that do not require a Building Safety Inspection. Here is a list of the Buildings that are exempt:

1 to 2-story family dwellings
State of Florida buildings
US government buildings
Schools under the jurisdiction of Broward County School Board
Buildings built on indigenous tribe reservations
Any buildings under 3500 square feet

What type of Boca Building INspector is qualified to perform a Building Safety Inspection in Boca Raton

Not all Boca Building Inspectors are qualified to carry out these inspections. To complete a Building Safety Inspection in Broward the Building Inspector must be a licensed engineer or architect. This is because the Building Safety Inspection report must be signed and sealed by one of these professionals. Not all the home inspection companies you find online have a licensed engineer on board so it is crucial to ask before hiring a Boca Raton Building Inspector.

What is inspected during the Boca Building inspection?

In the Milestone Inspection or Building Safety Inspection, two main areas are examined. The first is the structural integrity of the Building. A licensed engineer will examine key areas of your building and look for any structural issues. Some of the key areas they will look at are load-bearing walls, columns, foundations, roofs, flooring, framing systems, windows, and doors. The engineer will look for any cracks or concrete spalling and then further investigate these areas to ensure there are no underlying issues lurking beneath.

The second portion of the Building Safety inspection looks at the Building’s electrical system. The engineer performing the inspection will inspect your electrical panel and outlets in order to make sure they are in working order and do not provide any hazards. Along with these main components, there are two more inspections that may be required if your building has a parking lot attached.

Those are the Parking lot illumination inspection and the guard rail inspection. The guard rail inspection analyzes whether you are required to install a guard rail in your parking lot and if one is already installed it is checked to ensure it is in working order. The next one is the parking lot illumination which checks your garage lighting system to ensure there is sufficient lighting inside your garage.

Now that your Boca Raton building inspection is complete, what now?

Once the licensed Engineer or architect has finished your inspection they will provide you with a signed and sealed inspection report. This is the report you will send this report to the Boca Raton Building Department. If you hire us as your Building Inspector we will ensure that your report is approved. We have a 100% success rate with Boca Building Inspections. If for any reason your inspection is not approved we will address the issue and get you a new report or fix the current report free of charge until it is accepted.

Depending on whether the Engineer found any structural or electrical problems in your report there are multiple options. If the Engineer did not find any problems then the Building Department will approve your report and you will be good to go. However, if there were issues you are still required to submit the report so that the Boca Raton Building department can provide you with an extension to get the permits required in order to complete these repairs. Things that the engineer might find in your building are concrete spalling, cracks in structural columns, or cracks around your windows and doors to name a few.

Submitting your Boca Raton Building Safety Inspection report within the allocated time frame is crucial. Whether there were issues found or not getting the report submitted as soon as possible will help you to avoid any penalties. Even if there were no issues found if you do not submit the report in time you may be subject to penalties and can even be required to reinspect your building.

conclusion of the Boca Building Safety Inspection program

The Boca Raton building safety inspection program can be a lengthy process depending on how many buildings you own. Communities may take longer due to the amount of Buildings required to be inspected. In this article, we discussed the requirements of the Building Safety Inspection program, the components that are inspected, which buildings are not required to complete the inspection, and the process of submitting your inspection once you are done. The good thing is that we have completed thousands of inspections and have the skill and knowledge to get your inspection due as soon as possible. As structural engineers, we are not only Building Inspectors but have specialized knowledge of building infrastructure and can provide you with a more thorough inspection. Our skilled Building Inspectors are always ready to help you pass these complicated inspections.

What to expect from an owners representative

In the world of the construction industry, there are many moving parts and components when conducting a project. Whether you are having commercial or residential construction work conducted, you may have heard of an owner’s representative. The owner’s representative looks out for the owner’s interests, serving as a liaison to correctly complete the vision and objectives throughout the journey of your construction project.

Their expertise, diligence, and strategic acumen are indispensable in achieving successful project outcomes amidst the dynamic landscape of construction and development endeavors. In this article, we will discuss an owner’s representative, what their responsibilities consist of, and the skills utilized to make a successful representative. By the end of this article, you will be able to consider yourself an expert on the topic of owner’s representatives in the construction industry. You can also learn more about Owners Representatives by visiting the section on our services page.

What is an owner’s representative?

In construction, an owner’s representative is an individual or company who serves as a client’s representative for a property owner or property management company. They serve a multitude of responsibilities and tasks to ensure the goals and objectives of the owner are being met during a construction project.

A purpose for utilizing a representative is to alleviate much of the responsibility and task associated with managing a construction project onto the representative to handle. From this article, we will discuss what role and purpose an owner’s representative serves, the oversight they offer when managing a construction project, the level of communication skills required to succeed, managing your budget and managing the scheduling of your project, and utilizing conflict management skills and providing beneficial resolutions.

What is the role of an owner’s representative?

Besides the previous tasks and responsibilities mentioned above, an owner’s representative encompasses many unique tasks.

An owner’s representative serves as the client’s representative; they serve all of the needs and goals of the client for their construction project. They work as a customer liaison handling any of the issues the client has for the construction project and any information they need from any other parties such as architects, contractors, and subcontractors. As an owner’s representative, it is imperative they are in line with the client’s goals, budget, and scheduling for the project deadline. They will be the primary contact and person responsible for the construction project from start to finish. A lot of the work involves:

Maintaining constant communication with other parties and the client

Management of the project and necessary deadlines
Delivering information in a documentation manner by providing memos to parties such as the board of directors of the ongoing project and any pending tasks
Scheduling of meetings, agendas, and daily report logs
Preparation of scheduling of orders on materials and payment applications

With a focus on protecting the client’s interests and maintaining project quality, an owner’s representative plays a crucial role in facilitating effective communication and collaboration among all parties involved in the construction process.

By utilizing their expertise in the construction management process, they are essentially playing a crucial role in determining the level of success of your construction project whether it’s commercial or residential. Their comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of construction projects enables them to anticipate challenges, implement solutions, and ensure that the project is delivered to the client’s satisfaction, on time, and within budget.

The oversight of a owner’s representative

The owner’s representative provides a watchful eye over the duration of the construction project. Every aspect of the project, the representative is informed and knowledgeable about. Monitoring the project is a huge aspect of their role as they ensure alignment with predetermined objectives and milestones.

In addition to providing a watchful eye, an owner’s representative can offer quality control throughout the project lifetime. They will be responsible for conducting routine inspections, reviewing the work conducted by the employees at the construction site, and ensuring that safety and regulatory compliance requirements are followed. It is a role where the individual must be very detail oriented and minimize any mistakes made.

How effective is their communication

When trying to find the right owner’s representative for your construction project, you want to ensure communication is one of their strong suits. How effective they communicate with the client and all other stakeholders involved will determine the level of success for the project.

They are responsible for communicating and serving as the sole coordinator for the project. Not only are they communicating with the client but also all subcontractors involved in the project.

Moreover, an owner’s representative leverages a variety of communication channels and technologies to facilitate efficient information flow and collaboration. From traditional methods such as meetings, emails, and phone calls to modern digital platforms such as project management software, collaborative tools, and online portals, they employ a diverse array of communication mediums to accommodate different communication preferences and ensure accessibility and inclusivity. Additionally, they establish clear guidelines for information dissemination, outlining protocols for document sharing, reporting, and decision-making processes to streamline communication workflows and mitigate the risk of information silos or miscommunication.

Furthermore, an owner’s representative fosters a culture of transparency and accountability by promoting open communication and regular updates. They establish communication cadences and reporting mechanisms to ensure that stakeholders receive timely updates on project progress, milestones, risks, and issues. By fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, they cultivate trust and confidence among stakeholders, facilitating collaboration, alignment, and ultimately, project success. Through effective communication protocols, an owner’s representative lays the foundation for seamless information flow, fostering collaboration, and driving project success.

Management of the budget costs and schedule

Two takeaways from this topic include maximizing the client’s investment and steering clear from any unnecessary costs during the construction project. One of the main areas of the role consists of management of the project and the budget. Close communication and collaboration will be involved directly with the building owner or manager to ensure the cost for materials, labor, repairs, and any other associated costs are managed effectively. It is important to have open communication and conversations regarding a practical and sensible budget.

Furthermore, in the construction industry, ongoing changes during the construction and renovation process are a common theme. It is important to educate your client on any ongoing changes which may occur. You should also look for opportunities to serve your client and mitigate any costful finances during the process.

Budgeting will always go hand in hand with scheduling of your project. In the construction industry, costs may arise at any moment. For example, if additional materials are required for a project or more labor is needed, the costs for the project will certainly increase. This is why it’s best to utilize a proactive management approach to ensure the project is completed on time and perceive any delays.

Strategizing your schedule management plan

So, how do you ensure your success and your project as an owner’s representative? You can accomplish this by managing your time and your scheduling of the project. As an owner’s representative, it is incredibly imperative that you schedule every part of your project as an outline to be followed. If any changes or bumps in the road come along the way, it is important to update your scheduled plan for the construction project and readjust accordingly.

You first want to start by examining the scope of your project, the objectives your client is looking to accomplish, and the practical timelines for each part of the project. The scope of the work involved should detail all the parties involved, the work for each party involved, and the time tables for each party and their tasks. This helps to ensure that the plans are followed to precision. Communication and collaboration go great with managing your scheduling for the construction project. As an owner’s representative, you will look for ways to coordinate all levels of communication with your client and all the stakeholders involved on the project to make sure everyone is all on the same page regarding the work involved. When it comes to communication and planning your project, transparency is a critical component. If any obstacles arise, that information should be relayed to the property owner or manager so that they are informed in the process.

Lastly, even with the perfect plan, obstacles and unexpected problems can always occur. It’s best to apply a flexible and adaptable approach as an owner’s representative so that you remain versatile. The ability to quickly adjust your strategy or approach enables you to work through those challenges and keep the construction project on track. When it comes to concrete repair on Buildings, a number of issues can arise and the ability to be flexible and adaptable will be key to your success. By integrating these skills, you can increase efficiency for all of your construction projects.

An effective approach to conflict management

The difference between an average and an exceptional owner’s representative is their ability to solve conflicts. In the construction industry, many problems can arise, not necessarily just problems involving labor or materials. Interpersonal issues can occur and that’s where those interpersonal skills come into play. An exceptional owner’s representative will solve any conflicts with an optimal resolution and execute the resolution in a very fast yet effective manner. Someone who has poor interpersonal skills will be a very ineffective leader and an ineffective owner’s representative for their client. For example, if you are conducting yourself as an owner’s representative, it is your responsibility to solve any issues that occur while completing the construction project. If an issue between two subcontractors and you’re not able to resolve the issue, it is only going to lead to more problems while on the construction job site. You do not want this type of conflict while performing concrete or construction repairs as construction safety for all parties at the construction site should be of the utmost importance.

Problems will always arise when it comes to construction companies, the difference is the owner’s representative’s ability to solve the problem in an effective manner. There may be disagreements regarding construction project scheduling and milestones but it’s important to address the disagreement and work collaboratively with the general contractor assigned on the construction project together. The owner’s representative also wants to create an environment and atmosphere that is beneficial for all parties involved. The atmosphere should be one where efficiency and open communication takes precedence. By promoting transparency, collaboration, and open honest communication, any conflicts that arise can be targeted, addressed, and resolved before any escalations arise.

A skill which is heavily under-utilized and underestimated is empathy. By having an empathetic and understanding approach to the construction project, you can develop more meaningful relationships with all parties involved. No subcontractors will want to work in conjunction with an owner’s representative who they feel isn’t approachable or is uncompromising in their project and goals. It’s important to obtain perspectives from all parties involved and utilize active listening skills to adhere to their concerns, the motivation for their decisions and goals, and thus working together in a collaborative effort to work towards mutually acceptable solutions. This helps build trust and camaraderie with your subcontractors and with your client. Also, it is in your best interest to do so because of the potential for future projects. The construction industry is really like one big organization and many of the companies involved all know each other and have worked together in some shape or form. You want to ensure you are putting your best foot forward to create meaningful relationships with these subcontractors so you may be referred by them or the property owner on a future concrete project.

Finally, it is a fair statement to say as an owner’s representative, you should remain impartial and fair with your decision making process in relation to conflict resolution. As an owner’s representative, objectivity and neutrality should be the approach taken as it encourages fairness and discourages any favoritism. By following this approach, you will guarantee that decisions in the conflict resolution process are made in a group oriented mindset for what is the overall benefit for the construction project.

Wrapping things up on Owners Reps

Would you say you know everything there is to know about an owner’s representative in the construction industry? It’s an honest question and we recommend re-reading this article to further educate yourself on the process.

Having a clear and complete understanding of the role an owner’s representative plays in the construction industry will be paramount to your success for your construction project. Whether it’s new construction, a renovation project, commercial construction, or residential construction, an owner’s representative can help manage the success of your project. The owner’s representative serves as the designated person managing the construction project as they serve a multitude of roles, responsibilities, and tasks.

From inception to completion, they will be responsible for the entire project and ultimately the determining factor of success of the project. Throughout this discussion, we have explored the diverse responsibilities of an owner’s representative, including project oversight, quality control, risk management, and communication facilitation. By leveraging their expertise in construction management, contract administration, and industry regulations, owner’s representatives help mitigate challenges, streamline processes, and optimize project outcomes.

Furthermore, we have highlighted the importance of selecting a qualified and experienced owner’s representative who possesses strong leadership skills, effective communication abilities, and a comprehensive understanding of the construction industry. By collaborating closely with all parties involved, the owner’s representative fosters transparency, fosters collaboration, and drives the project towards success.

In essence, the owner’s representative serves as a trusted advisor and advocate for the owner throughout the construction process, safeguarding their interests and ensuring that the project is delivered to the highest standards of quality, on time, and within budget. With their guidance and expertise, owners can navigate the complexities of construction projects with confidence, ultimately achieving their objectives and realizing their vision.

Expert Advice on Dania Beach Building Inspections

dania beach building recertification guide

Expert Advice on Dania Beach Building Inspections

In the wake of the tragic collapse of the Champlain Towers Florida implemented several measures to ensure tragic events like these are avoided in the future. Dania Beach is moving forward with these new Building Safety Inspections. The two main components of the new Dania Beach Inspection program include the Building Safety Inspection and Structural Integrity Reserve Study. Both are required and must be completed within 90 days of receiving the letter in the mail.

As a structural engineering company, we have completed thousands of Building Inspections and can help you overcome the challenge of completing the Broward Safety inspection properly the first time. With a 100% success rate our Building Inspectors can answer any questions you might have regarding the inspection process. Our Dania Beach Building Inspectors are also structural engineers which can help answer any questions you might have regarding these inspections.

new Condo Inspection laws in Dania Beach explained

The new Senate Bill 4-D introduced many changes to the way Dania Beach Building inspections were performed. Although many of the requirements of the previous 40-year inspection program are still required, there are some notable changes you should be aware of. First and foremost the biggest change is when you are required to complete your building’s first inspection.

As you may know, the 40-year inspection required condominiums to complete the first inspection after 40 years. With the new Building Safety Inspection, this has now been changed to 25 years. This means that you are required to complete your first building inspection when your building reaches 25 years of age. After you complete your first building inspection you will then be required to complete subsequent inspections every 10 years.

Besides the time frame when you must complete your first inspection the Dania Beach Building Safety Inspection has the same requirements from the previous 40 year inspection program. You are required to have your building’s structural elements as well as the electrical system to ensure it is safe for use. This inspection does not check whether your Building is up to code or violates any Building code requirements but instead was created to make sure that your building is structurally sound and will not cause injury.

For the structural portion of the inspection, a Building Inspector will verify the foundation, roofs, masonry-bearing walls, flooring and roof systems, steel and concrete framing systems, and windows and doors are all in working order and do not pose any risk to residents and the surrounding area. The same engineer or architect can complete the electrical inspection portion, they will inspect your electrical panels and make sure they are in working order and functioning as intended.

Along with the Structural and electrical portion of the inspection Dania Beach also requires an additional inspection. The Structural Integrity Reserve Stud was introduced with Senate Bill 4-D and is a process in which an Engineer will visually inspect your building and provide an estimated repair and maintance cost. This allows building owners, associations, and property managers in Dania Beach to have the required funds available when these repairs are required. The SIRS study also helps business owners by providing them with an overview of the buildings condition.

Do I need an inspection for my building or structure in Dania Beach?

Under these new Dania Beach guidelines, all condominiums and buildings that are over 3 stories tall and are 3,500 square feet are required to complete these inspections. The Dania Beach building department will send you a certified letter with all of the details regarding the time frame when your first inspection is due. Not completing the inspection within the allocated time frame may result in penalties that start from $500 a day. For your convienence we have listed the contact information for the Dania Beach Building Department below.

Dania Beach BUILDING DEPARTMENT

100 W Dania Beach Blvd, Dania Beach, FL 33004

(954) 924-6805

[email protected]

Hours

10:00am-3:00pm M-T

What if I already did a 40 year inspection in Dania Beach?

If you have owned or managed an older property then you are probaly familiar with Dania Beach’s 40 year inspection program. If your building is older than 40 years and you already completed the 40 year inspection you can continue to with the subsuqnt inspection schiecdule. One additional inspection that you will also be required to complete is the Structural Integrity Reserve Study. The SIRS Study can also be performed by the same engineer that completed your 40 year inspection.

What buildings in Dania Beach are exempt from completing these inspections?

Some building in Dania Beach are not required to pass the Building Safety Inspection and the SIRS Study. Here are examples of the buildings that are exempt from the new inspection program.

State of Florida buildings
US government buildings
1 to 2-story family dwellings
Schools under the jurisdiction of Broward County School Board
Buildings built on indigenous tribe reservations
Any buildings under 3500 square feet

What building inspector is qualified to complete the Davie building inspection?

In compliance with the new SB-4D the Dania Beach Inspection process requires structural and electrical inspections by a licensed engineer or architect. These professionals can serve as Building Inspectors and must be licensed in the state of Florida. As a structural engineering company we have several building inspectors which are also structural engineers which can help you pass your next inspection. A structural engineer has a deep understanding of your buildings structural components allowing them to quickly spot structural problems in your building such as concrete spalling and cracks in concrete.

What to do once you complete your Dania Beach building inspection?

After a qualified Building Inspector has thoroughly inspected your building and you have received a signed and sealed report the next step is to submit the report to the Dania Beach building department. Whether there were issues found in your building report or not you are required to submit the report. If there were no issues found with your building’s structural components or electrical system and the Dania Beach building department has approved the report then you are done. You will not have to complete this inspection again for another 10 years.

However, if there were issues found during the building safety inspection then you will need to submit the report to the Dania Beach building department in order to receive an extension. The extension which is usually 180 days will allow you to pull the necessary permits and start to fix any issues outlined in the report.

Final thought on the Danie Beach Inspection program

The Dania Beach building safety inspection program can be complicated and costly but it is an essential public safety program that helps Building Owners, associations, and Property Management companies to ensure buildings are kept in good shape and are safe for their residents. The Champlain Towers collapse was a sad tragedy that this new Dania Beach Inspection program was created to prevent.

It also provides peace of mind for condo residents knowing that a professional has examined the structure of the building. It also helps Building Owners by mitigating legal risks and excessive maintenance costs that can occur from not maintaining a building.

Why you need a threshold Building Inspection

Why you need a threshold Building Inspection

Building inspections are crucial part of real estate transactions, insurance requirements, building recertifications, building renovations, and building maintenance. They serve as a comprehensive evaluation of a buildings current condition, highlighting potential structural issues and ensuring compliance with current Miami Dade, Broward, and Palm beach building safety inspections. Among these inspections, the threshold building inspection stands out as a crucial step in guaranteeing the structural integrity and safety of a building. This article explores why a threshold building inspection is essential and the benefits it provides to property owners, buyers, and the community at large.

What is a threshold inspector in Florida

A Threshold Inspector, formally known as a Special Inspector of Threshold Buildings, is a professional engineer certified by the state of Florida, meeting stringent qualifications outlined in Rule 61G15-35.003 by the Florida Board of Professional Engineers. Additionally, licensed architects are also eligible to obtain a special inspector’s license under this rule. Their primary responsibility entails conducting thorough structural inspections throughout the construction process of threshold buildings, adhering to the guidelines specified in the structural inspection plan crafted by the structural engineer-of-record. Furthermore, they supervise inspections conducted by specialized engineers focusing on shoring design, ensuring strict compliance with regulatory standards.

Threshold Inspections ensure the STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF A BUILDING

The structural integrity of a building is crucial for ensuring your building is structurally sound and is safe for it’s residents. A threshold building inspection focuses specifically on the foundation and load-bearing elements of a building, such as load bearing walls, columns, beams, and slabs. By having a structural engineer thoroughly examine these components, building inspectors in South Florida can identify any signs of deterioration, damage, or structural weaknesses that may compromise the building’s stability.

Detecting these issues early allows you to handle these repairs or reinforcements quickly, preventing potential disasters like collapses or structural failures such as the ones that occurred at Champlain Towers in Surfside Florida.

Keep your building compliant with THRESHOLD INSPECTIONS

Adhering to Miami Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach safety regulations and building codes is mandatory in order to avoid fines and keep your building up to current building standards. A threshold building inspection ensures that a structure meets these requirements set by the local building departments. Structural Inspectors will assess multiple aspects of your building, including the materials used, construction techniques, and structural design, to verify and ensure your building is compliant.

Additionally, they check for any deviations from previously approved plans or improper alterations and additions that may compromise structural integrity and safety of your structure. Compliance with building codes not only mitigates risks but also enhances the overall value and marketability of the property.

Threshold inspections help to find Hidden structural Defects

Not all structural issues are easy to spot. Although you might have areas with concrete spalling most of the time you will not find these issues until the there is lots of damage underneath. Many issues, such as foundation cracks, settlement, or moisture intrusion, may remain hidden until they turn into concrete spalling, broken columns, or cracks in the concrete.

A thorough threshold building inspection by a professional engineer uses specialized tools and techniques to find these hidden structural defects. For instance, ground-penetrating radar can detect subsurface issues, while infrared cameras can identify moisture infiltration or insulation deficiencies. By uncovering these issues early on, property owners can address them proactively, avoiding costly repairs or legal liabilities down the line if the structure should fail.

Protect your Investment with a threshold inspection

Property ownership represents a substantial financial investment. Whether you own a portfolio of properties or just one building structural issues can be costly to repair and can drain your bank account. Whether it’s a residential building or a commercial building, safeguarding this investment is crucial to your financial success.

A comprehensive threshold building inspection from an experienced structural engineer provides peace of mind to property owners by clearly understanding the structure’s condition and the potential risk of failure. With this knowledge, building owners can take action by making informed decisions regarding maintenance, repairs, or renovations. Moreover, for buyers, a thorough building inspection report is an essential tool during negotiations, allowing them to assess the property’s true value and negotiate any necessary repairs or adjustments to the purchase price.

Minimizing your legal risk

Failure to conduct proper inspections and address structural issues can expose property owners to legal risks and liabilities that can cost millions of dollars. In the event of accidents or injuries resulting from neglected structural defects, owners may face lawsuits and financial repercussions. By conducting a threshold building inspection and addressing any identified issues promptly, property owners demonstrate due diligence and fulfill their legal obligations.

This not only protects them from potential litigation but also upholds their reputation as responsible building owners and professionals. As a well known Building Inspector in South Florida we can ensure your inspections are carried out properly in order to minimize any legal risk you may have regarding your building inspection.

Summary of why you should consider a Threshold Inspection

In conclusion, a threshold building inspection is a fundamental step in ensuring the structural integrity, safety, and value of a property. By thoroughly examining the foundation and load-bearing elements, these inspections identify potential issues, ensure compliance with safety standards, and protect investments. Whether for property owners, buyers, or the community at large, investing in a threshold building inspection is a prudent decision that provides invaluable peace of mind and safeguards against unforeseen risks. As one of the top building inspectors in South Florida we strive to provide you with the best Building Inspections at a great price.

A complete guide to Aventura Building Inspections

Aventura has made some notable changes to its Building Inspections. The Aventura Building Safety Inspection which was previously known as the Aventura 40-year inspection is a public safety program that examines the structural and electrical components of a building. After the tragic event that occurred in Surfside many building owners were worried whether the building they were living in was structurally sound. Florida took immediate action in order to create a state-wide Milestone Inspection program to prevent accidents like this from happening again by introducing Senate Bill 4-D.

In this article, we will go over all the new changes introduced by Senate Bill 4-D and how they affect the previous 40-year inspection program. Although the Aventura Inspection process did not change much there are some crucial changes you should be aware of. As one of Aventura’s top building inspectors, our team has completed thousands of inspections and we can help you complete this tedious process.

What are the Aventura Condominium Inspection laws

Condominiums make up a big portion of the buildings affected by the new Aventura Building Inspection laws, however, any building that is 3 stories or higher and has at least 3,500 square feet is required to complete these inspections. Aventura already had a building inspection program in place called the 40-year inspection process. The previous inspections required by the City of Miami were very comprehensive and already covered everything in the new Florida-mandated inspection laws except for a few new changes that had to be implemented.

The main changes to the Aventura Building Inspection program did not affect the specific areas needing to be inspected due to it already covering everything in the new program and more. One of the most important changes was the time frame when a building’s first inspection was required. According to the new legislature, all buildings in Florida require a Building Inspection after 30 years if it is located more than 3 miles from the coast and every 25 years if it is 3 miles or less from the coast.

The previous 40-year inspection program in Aventura required recertification by a building inspector after the building reached 40 years of age. Instead, we now have a 30-year inspection and a 25-year inspection in Aventura. Besides that the requirements remain the same. Your building is still required to have your structural components inspected as well as the electrical components. Both were required under the previous 40-year inspection and are still required under the Aventura Building Safety Inspection program. The 10-year milestone inspection which was required after you completed your first inspection also remains the same and is required regardless of the previous inspections you have completed.

Along with those two elements if your building has a parking lot attached to it you also need to complete a guard rail inspection and a parking lot illumination inspection in accordance with the City of Miami requirements. Another important change to the Aventura building inspection program is the introduction of the SIRS. The structural integrity reserve study known as the SIRS study is an extra inspection that is now required. The SIRS study requires a Florida-licensed Engineer or architect to visually inspect your building’s current condition and provide an estimated cost of repairing and maintaining your building.

What if my building already completed Aventura's 40 year inspection?

If your building was building is older than 40 years then chances are you already completed Aventura’s 40-year inspection program and are following with the subsequent inspections every 10 years. If this is the case then you can continue with the same schedule as the 10-year inspection required after your first building inspection remains the same.

One of the new requirements introduced in Senate Bill 4-D is the SIRS study. This is an additional requirement introduced to the Aventura Building Safety Inspection program which requires a Florida-licensed engineer or architect to visually inspect your building and create an estimated cost of maintaining and repairing the building. This new inspection program provides a sort of report card for your building so that you know what your estimated maintenance cost will be so building owners, property managers, and associations can have the funds in reserve to carry out these necessary repairs.

How do I know if my building in Aventura is required to pass an inspection?

The Aventura Building Department is required to send you a certified letter when your building inspection is approaching. However, we recommend being proactive and reaching out to us or the Aventura Building department in order to check when your inspection is required. If you do not receive the letter because you have not updated your contact information then you are still responsible for completing the inspection within the allocated time frame.

Let’s go over the requirements just in case so that you can determine if your building in Aventura will be subject to the new Building Safety Inspection program. All Buildings located in Aventura that are 3,500 square feet or more and also 3 stories or higher are required to complete the inspection. This can include parking lots and warehouses so it does not only apply to condos in Aventura.

If you do not complete the Aventura Building Inspection can result in penalties starting from $500 a day so it is crucial to complete these inspections within the time frame outlined in the letter. For Aventura, this is usually within 90 days of receiving the letter. If you are unable to get the inspection completed in time you are allowed to ask for a one-time extension which will cost you an additional $500 if it is approved by the Aventura Building Department.

Although we try to help our customers by providing the most current regulations to the Aventura Building Inspections you should always refer back to the Aventura Building department to confirm. These building inspection laws and regulations are always changing so we recommend reaching out to the building department for the most up-to-date info. For your convenience, we have provided Aventura’s building department’s website and contact information below so you can contact them if you have questions that were not answered in this article,

Aventura BUILDING DEPARTMENT

19200 W Country Club Drive Aventura, FL 33180

305-466-8940

[email protected]

Hours

8:30am-3:30pm M-F

Which buildings in Aventura are exempt from the Building Safety Inspection?

Some buildings in Aventura are exempt from completing the new Aventura Building Safety Inspection:

1 to 2-story family dwellings
Buildings which are under 3500 square feet
State of Florida buildings
US government buildings
Schools under the jurisdiction of Miami-Dade County School Board
Buildings built on indigenous tribe reservations

What type of building inspectors are qualified to complete the Aventura Building safety Inspection?

The Building Safety Inspection is a comprehensive structural inspection that is crucial to residents’ safety therefore not just any regular home building inspector is qualified to perform it. In order to be a qualified building inspector for this program it must be performed by a Florida licensed engineer or architect.

The reason for this is that the Building inspector is liable that the inspection was completed properly. The report must be signed and sealed by a licensed architect or engineer which certifies that the inspection was performed as required and in its entirety. A structural engineer has a more comprehensive understanding of how buildings are completed and therefore can provide invaluable insight into its structural and electrical components.

What's the next step once I complete Aventura's building Safety inspection?

Once an Engineer or architect has completed your building safety inspection they will provide you with a signed and sealed report outlining the results of the inspection. If the Building inspector carrying out the inspection did not identify any problems with your building’s electrical or structural components you are ready to move on to the next step.

Once the Building Inspector has sent you the signed and sealed report you can then submit the report to the Aventura Building Department and you are not required to complete the process again for 10 years when you will be required to do it again. However, If during the inspection the inspector found issues like concrete spalling, cracks, or other issues then you must still submit the report.

If there were issues with your building there is no need to worry. Once you submit the report to the Aventura building department they will provide you with an extension so you can get the necessary permits required to repair any of the issues found in the report. This is usually around 160 days but we reccomend verifing with the Aventura Building Department. One crucial key to avoiding any penalties or fines is that you submit the report within the allocated time frame. Even if the Building Inspector did not find any issues and you have a clean report but you don’t submit it in time you can still be penalized or required to restart the inspection process again.

Summary of the Aventura Building Safety Inspection program

To some things up, the new changes introduced with the new Senate Bill 4-D will affect many condominiums and buildings across Aventura. The Building Safety Inspection program checks the Structural and Electrical components of your building as well as the Guard Rails and parking lot illumination if there is a parking lot attached to the property. The key changes from the previous 40-year inspection to the new Aventura Building Safety Inspection program are the timeframe when your first inspection will be required along with the new SIRS study. This inspection program will help ensure that Building Owners, Property Managers, as well as associations, are keeping up with a building’s maintenance.

These programs although geared toward keeping residents in Aventura safe also provide many benefits for buildings owners. Between the Building Safety Inspection and the SIRS study, you will have a comprehensive understanding of your building condition. It also provides minimizes your legal risk by showing that you are a responsible building owner and have carried out all the required inspections to keep your building safe for residents.

Condo residents in Aventura will also enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that the building has been examined by a professional. Not maintaining a Building, especially if it is close to the ocean can cause excessive wear and tear and if not addressed it can spiral out of control costing thousands of dollars to repair. Proactive maintenance will save you time and money in the long run and provide a safe environment for everyone.

Photometric Study for Your Building Inspection

photometric study building inspection south florida

Photometric Study for Your Building Inspection

A few years ago, Cities began to require that photometric studies be done for parking lots within properties as part of the 40-year recertifications. You will ask yourself “Why?”. The answer is very simple. Let me begin by defining what a photometric study is. A photometric study is a survey of the lighting levels in your parking lot. Light intensity is measured in foot-candles. The higher the foot-candle, the more intense the light. As an example, a typical office has about 20 foot-candles of light. In contrast, a parking lot has about 2 foot-candles.

Miami-Dade requires that parking lots contain a minimum of 2 foot-candles of light. Just imagine if a parking light had less than the required lighting. As you can probably guess, there may be more car accidents. Additionally, the darkness may invite muggings. People feel safe when there is more lighting. Therefore, the County mandates that all parking areas have a minimum lighting standard.

Our Building Inspectors are well versed in these parking lot inspections and can help you get them done properly.

How is the Photometric Study Done?

In general, inspectors use a light meter to walk around the parking area and measure the light levels. The picture below shows a light meter. A light meter contains a gauge and a read out where one can read the light levels. With the readout, the inspector can pin-point the areas where the light levels are lower than the required amounts.

Obviously, these inspections must be done at night time. All of the lights in the parking must also be turned on because any lack of lighting will result in a low reading. Maintenance personnel should also replace or repair existing light bulbs. Once the parking is ready to be inspected, then your inspector will do the inspection and provide you with his feedback.

Regardless of who does the inspection, the question of the cost always becomes important. There are many aspects of a study that affect the price such as the size of the parking lot or the company that is performing the test. Be that as it may, one should call several companies and compare prices as in anything else.

What If the Parking Fails the Photometric Test?

If the Parking fails the test, it is not the end of the world. There are many ways that lighting levels can be adjusted so that you can comply with the requirements. In the first place, your inspector knows your property and should be the first person to provide you with possible solutions to your particular situation.

The easiest and cheapest way to increase the light levels in the parking lot is to increase the light intensity of the bulbs by changing out the bulbs. At times, changing the direction of the existing lights can make a difference. However, when these things do not work, then adding lighting to the parking lot is your only choice. In this instance, you will need to hire an experienced professional to design a lighting scheme that will comply with the requirements and at the same time, not break the bank. New lighting installations can be expensive especially when light poles are needed and underground wiring is required to wire the poles.

Worst Case Scenario – Installing New Lighting

Lets say that your inspector tells you that you have no choice but to add new lighting to your parking lot. Although you may be dismayed by the prospect of potentially spending a lot of money, the fact remains that this is mandated by law and simply ignoring it will make matters worse. The County is very good at monitoring those that are not in compliance and will be fined eventually.

First, you must hire an engineering company to assess the situation and provide you with a game plan on how to remedy your light level issue. You should interview more than one company given that different professionals may provide you with different options. For example, our company G. Batista & Associates has been doing illumination tests and designs for many years.

The professional that you hire will guide you through the complicated maze of the design process. Additionally, they will be your consultant when you decide to hire a contractor to perform the installation of the lights and the poles.

Completing the PHOTOMETRIC TEST

Once the project is completed, then the inspector will provide the final inspection and hopefully a clean bill of health. Your 40-year recertification is well on its way to being approved.

Detailed Sunrise Building Inspection Guide

The Sunrise Building Safety Inspection program is a public safety program that inspects the structural integrity of buildings as they mature. According to the previous requirements it was required when your building reached 40 years. Instead, the Sunrise 40-year inspection has now been replaced with a new inspection called the Sunrise Building Safety Inspection.

Both residential condominiums and commercial structures in Sunrise are required by law to complete these building inspections. They are also required to be completed by a qualified Building Inspector. Not just any home inspection company is qualified to perform these building inspections. The new program is very similar to the old Sunrise 40-year inspection with some minor tweaks that will have a major impact on Building Owners, associations, and Property Managers across Sunrise, FL.

In this article, we will review the old Sunrise 40-year inspection and discuss all of the new changes to the inspection laws as well as the additional inspections such as the Structural Integrity Reserve Study which is now required. Developing a comprehensive understanding of the Sunrise Building Safety Inspection Program is imperative for property owners, occupants, and stakeholders alike. By acquainting yourself with the recertification process, you can actively contribute to the preservation and safety of your property.

As one of Broward’s top building inspection companies, we have completed thousands of inspections with a 100% pass rate. If you received a letter from the Sunrise Building Department about your building needing a recertification give us a call. We would be happy to answer any questions you might have regarding the process and requirements.

Why did the SUnrise Building recertification program change?

Following the tragic collapse of the Surfside condominium in June 2021, resulting in the loss of many lives, Florida implemented a new building safety inspection program. However, it’s worth noting that in Broward County, many of these requirements were already in place. The Champlain Towers collapse is one of the main factors that prompted adjustments to Sunrise’s 40-year recertification program.

While there were modifications in terms of inspection frequency, the Sunrise Building recertification/inspection program already met and exceeded all of the new requirements mandated by the new program, except for a few important changes. Additionally, it included supplementary inspections mandated solely by the Sunrise building department which include the Structural Integrity Reserve Study.

Our building inspectors are also structural Engineers who have completed thousands of Building Inspections and are up to date with all of the new inspection laws in Sunrise. Although we try to update you with the latest news regarding Sunrise Building Inspections we always advise you to go to the source if you would like to verify any information regarding these inspections. For your convenience, we have listed the contact info for the Sunrise Building Department below.

SUNRISE BUILDING DEPARTMENT

1607 NW 136th Ave, Sunrise, FL 33323

(954) 572-2354

What if I already completed The Sunrise 40 year recertification?

If you’ve already undergone the 40-year recertification in Sunrise, the core requirements remain unchanged, except for some new changes following the implementation of Senate Bill 4-D. You’re still obligated to fulfill the structural and electrical inspections. Should you be following the subsequent inspection schedule of conducting inspections every 10 years, you can continue with the same schedule.

The primary change in Sunrise’s new Building Safety Inspection program lies in the introduction of the Structural Integrity Reserve Study (SIRS). This new inspection mandates a visual assessment of your building’s current condition. During the inspection, the Building Inspector will visually inspect your property and estimate the cost required for repairs and maintenance within Sunrise. This provision requires property managers, associations, and building owners to provide the necessary funds for future repair and maintenance.

What is inspected during the Sunrise Building inspections?

The Sunrise Building Safety inspection is composed of two parts. The structural inspection and the electrical inspection portion. A certified engineer or architect will inspect your building and determine if either the electrical or structural components of your building have any issues that could cause it to fail and injure someone. Remember that these inspections are not meant to check if your building is up to Sunrise’s current building codes but instead check to make sure the building is safe for occupancy and does not pose a risk to its residents and the surrounding areas.

Some of the areas our Sunrise Building Inspectors will look at include the foundation, any masonry bearing walls, steel, wood, concrete framing systems & electrical services such as the fire safety system, and electrical panels. These areas are important whether you have a building that’s commercial or residential. Sunrise building department inspections can be complicated but we are experts in the field and are always happy to help you.

How do I know if I need a recertification for my building in Sunrise?

Any buildings located in Sunrise that are 3,500 square feet or more and are 3 stories or taller are required to complete this new building inspection. This includes any buildings that are attached to your building such as parking lots or warehouses. The Sunrise Building department will send you a certified letter when the time comes to get your inspection completed.

That’s why it is important that you keep your mailing address up to date to ensure you receive the letter. Once you receive the letter you will have 90 days to complete the inspection or contact the building department if you need an extension for any reason. Depending on how many buildings you own the inspection process can take time so it is crucial to get started on the inspection as soon as possible.

What buildings in Sunrise are exempt from the Building inspection program?

Although there are few buildings that do not require the new Building Safety Inspection, there are some that are exempt such as U.S. government buildings, state of Florida buildings, Indian reservations, school buildings under the Broward County school board, one or two-family story buildings, and minor structures under 3500 sq ft.

How to submit your Sunrise Building Dept inspections?

Once you complete the Building Safety Inspection you will be required to submit the signed and sealed report to the Sunrise Building Department. Whether the Building Inspector found any issues with your building’s structural or electrical components you still need to submit the report. If there was nothing found and you have a clean report you will not be required to reinspect your building for another 10 years. It is imperative that you submit your report as soon as possible. Even if you have a clean report if you do not submit the report in time you can be penalized and possibly have to complete the whole process over again.

If your inspection report did have some structural problems or your electrical system had issues then you will still need to submit the report. Once you do the Sunrise Building Department will issue you an extension so that you can pull the required permits and get to work on the repairs. It is crucial to get your signed and sealed inspection report to the Sunrise building department in time in order to avoid any penalties. Not submitting your report within the given time frame can cause you to accrue fines on your building starting from $500 a day.

Summary of the Sunrise Building inspections program

In this article, we covered all the changes that occurred from the Sunrise 40-year inspection to the new Building Safety Inspection program. We went over the requirements and what is required to successfully complete and submit your inspection report. Although these new building inspections can be a hassle and cost time and money they help ensure buildings are safe for everyone. The tragic event that happened in Surfside taught us what could happen if a building is neglected and not maintained properly.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT 40/50 YEAR RECERTIFICATIONS AND THE SURFSIDE BUILDING COLLAPSE

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT 40/50 YEAR RECERTIFICATIONS AND THE SURFSIDE BUILDING COLLAPSE

The collapse of the Surfside condo building has resulted in an upsurge of building enforcement action that was long overdue. The 40/50 year recertification process for buildings is intended to avoid a catastrophe like the one we witnessed. If you are a property owner, HOA member, building manager, or owner’s representative, the information we are about to share will help you understand and prepare for a 40/50 year recertification. Here at G. Batista Engineering & Construction, building safety is our mission. Our building inspectors are highly trained structural engineers who can help you overcome the challenge of these new Building Safety Inspections.

What is a 40/50 year recertification?

40 year certifications are a requirement whereby a building must have a licensed engineer conduct a thorough inspection to examine any potential safety or structural vulnerabilities. Any failure that can pose an immediate threat to the safety of a building’s occupants is documented in a report. Building owners or representatives must correct these issues in a timely fashion. This requirement is due 40 years after a building’s construction date and 10 years thereafter. A 50 year recertification refers to the recertification requirement after the initial 40 year mark, which is necessary at year 50.

What is included in a 40/50 year recertification?

The main components of a building that are generally inspected include the following:

Exterior walls
Roofing Systems
Electrical systems
Foundation
Steel Framing of Building
Floor Systems
Windows
Loading Conditions of Building
Wood Framing
Emergency Lighting
Parking Lot Illumination

What Types of Buildings Are Required to have a 40/50 year recertification?

40/50 year recertifications apply to every building structure with the exceptions of single-family homes, duplexes, and properties that are less than 2,000 square feet or have an occupant load of 10 or less. In certain counties such as Broward, there are exceptions to buildings with less than 3,500 square feet as well as U.S. government or state government structures that are built on Indian reservations.

What changes can we expect after the Champlain Towers Surfside building collapse?

At this point in time, it’s difficult to say what changes to 40/50 year recertifications we can expect. However, we are seeing many cities looking to change the 40 year period to 30 years. There is also an understandable increased level of concern and caution from property owners, homeowner associations, and owner’s representatives. They are now being more proactive than ever about making sure that inspections are performed when required or when visible damage is prevalent such as cracks in concrete and spalling, conditions that previously were not given much attention to. The fact is, as engineers if we see a potential failure that is seriously putting people’s safety at risk, we are very diligent about documenting said issues and recommending corrective action. Immediate action is not always taken due to budget constraints or simply not wanting to inconvenience homeowners with construction repairs. The Surfside building collapse demonstrated what can happen if structural and concrete issues are not taken seriously. We live in South Florida and the ocean can wreak havoc on concrete. We must be proactive about keeping our buildings safe.

When should you prepare for a 40/50 year recertification?

Don’t wait until you receive notice from the county. At that point, you only have 90 days to show compliance. We recommend beginning the inspections 2 or 3 years prior to the 40 year birthday of the building’s construction. This should give you ample time to understand any potential failures that the building may need and budget for repairs if necessary.

What are some things that can be done to prepare for a 40/50 year recertification?

Make sure that electrical outlets near bathrooms and sinks are GFCI-protected.
A/C closets should not be used for storage.
Electrical panels need to be labeled and there should not be any open slots.
Roof annual maintenance is important. Schedule annual roofing inspections.
Buildings should be professionally painted and caulked every 7 to 10 years and pressure washed at a minimum every 2 years. If it’s a property near saltwater, the maintenance should be more often.
Ensure that the parking lot has plenty of illumination. Dark parking lots can pose a lot of dangers.

How much can corrections after the 40/50 year inspection be?

Obviously, it varies from building to building. Properties that are well-maintained may just need some minor repairs such as paint. Buildings that have not been properly maintained over the years may need more drastic repairs such as roof replacement or extensive concrete restoration which can take several months to remedy. For this reason, we recommend that if you see any signs of cracking in concrete or spalling, get it looked at right away. Spalling refers to the rusting and corrosion of the steel reinforcement that is found inside concrete structures. When this is exposed it is a sign of structural vulnerability. If addressed immediately, the repair can be minor. If left exposed for a long time, it could mean a complete replacement of the bigger structure. We have seen instances where spalling in parking garages was neglected for so long, that our only option was to replace the entire floor structure.

Do I still need to get a 40/50 year inspection if a notice is not received?

Which types of properties are most vulnerable to issues?

What happens if I do not submit the 40/50 year recertification report on time?

Failure to comply with this requirement will result is the issuance of a Civil Notice from your county and this matter is referred to the Unsafe Structures department which can take immediate action including shutting your building down and requiring it to be vacated. You can also expect fines over $10,000 along with enforcement proceedings costs. In rare cases, your building may even need to be demolished. Bottom line, take these 40/50 year recertification requirements seriously.

Hialeah Building Inspection: A Complete Guide

Did you receive a letter from the City of Hialeah Building department letting you know that you need to complete an Inspection on your building? Don’t worry we are experienced structural engineers who can serve as your Hialeah building inspector for your next Building Safety Inspection. In this guide we will go over the requirements, the changes to the new condo inspection laws, what the inspection covers, what to do once you’re done with the inspection, and what happened to the previous Hialeah 40-year inspection. If you would like to get a quote for your next Hialeah Building Safety Inspection feel free to use the button below for a quote in 24 hours.

Hialeah’s new condo inspection laws may seem like a real challenge for building owners and managers. But don’t worry, with the help of these rigorous inspections, you’ll be able to ensure that your building is safe and structurally sound, and we will help you overcome this inspection with relative ease. City of Hialeah building inspections can seem complicated but we will help you though the entire process.

What are the new Hialeah Condo Inspection laws

Hialeah’s condo inspection laws have undergone many new changes based on the new Senate Bill 4-D. Gone are the days of the Hialeah 40-year inspection program, replaced by the new Hialeah Building Safety Inspection that changes some of the requirement dates for these inspections. The new Hialeah Building Inspection program also known as the Hialeah BSIP requires buildings to be inspected after 30 years (or 25 years for those located within three miles of the coast).

First off, the initial inspection is now due after 30 years (or 25 years for those located within three miles of the coast), but subsequent inspections will be required every ten years after that. When compared with the 40-year inspection which required all buildings regardless of location to complete the inspection after 40 years. Buildings in Hialeah with a parking garage attached will also need to undergo guardrail and parking lot illumination inspections.

The next major change to the Hialeah building inspection laws is the addition of the Structural Integrity Reserve Study. The SIRS study is an additional building inspection required that analyzes the building’s current condition and approximates the cost of maintaining and repairing your building over time. We will go over the details of the SIRS study later in this article.

What is inspected during the new Hialeah building Safety inspection?

So, what can you expect during the Hialeah Building inspection process? During the Hialeah Building Safety Inspection, the building inspector will examine two crucial elements of your building, the structural and electrical components. The structural portion will involve a thorough examination of your building’s foundation, roofs, masonry-bearing walls, flooring and roof systems, steel and concrete framing systems, and windows and doors. Our structural inspectors use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that your building is structurally sound and doesn’t pose a hazard to residents or the surrounding area.

The electrical portion of the inspection will involve an examination of your electrical panels to make sure they’re in good working order and don’t pose a hazard either. Some of the elements that are inspected are the electrical outlets, electrical panel, and any other elements of your building’s electrical system.

What if I already completed the Hialeah 40 year Building inspection?

If your building in Hialeah is older than you are already following with the subsequent inspections every 10 years. The new Hialeah Building Safety Inspection program is the same when considering the requirements required. The new inspection program follows the same subsequent inspection schedule so you won’t need to worry about that.

There is an additional inspection that you will be required to complete moving forward. The Structural Integrity Reserve Study is an additional inspection that examines the current condition of your building done by a qualified building inspector and gives you an estimated cost of repairing and maintaining your building. This new inspection was introduced with the new Senate Bill 4-D.

How do I know if my building in Hialeah requires a Building Safety inspection?

You must keep your contact information up to date because the City of Hialeah Building Department will send you a certified letter when your building is due for inspection. Whether you receive the letter or not it is your responsibility as a building owner, property manager, or association to keep your residents safe.

Let’s go over which buildings are required to complete the new Building Safety Inspection in Hialeah. If your building is 3,000 square feet or more and is 3 stories or higher you will be required to complete the inspection on your building. Not completing the inspection in time can result in fees from the City of Hialeah building department that start from $500 a day.

You can request a one-time extension with the City of Hialeah building department which will cost you an additional $500 if it is approved. Although we try our best to keep you updated with the latest inspection requirements in Hialeah it is always recommended that you check with the Hialeah Building Department if you seek clarity regarding this new inspection program.

To simplify this we have listed the City of Hialeah building department website and contact info below so you can reach out to them if your question was not answered in this article or if you want to double-check. On there you will find the City of Hialeah building department forms but if you hire us we take care of everything for you except submitting the final report to the city.

Hialeah BUILDING DEPARTMENT

501 Palm Avenue 2nd Floor Hialeah, FL 33010

305-883-5825

[email protected]

Hours

7:30-11:30am & 12:30-3:15pm M-F

What buildings in Hialeah are exempt from the Building Safety Inspection?

Here is a list of Buildings which are exempt from completing the Hialeah Building Safety Inspection:

1 to 2-story family dwellings
State of Florida buildings
US government buildings
Schools under the jurisdiction of Miami-Dade County School Board
Buildings built on indigenous tribe reservations
Any buildings under 3500 square feet

Which building inspectors are allowed to complete the Hialeah Building Inspection program?

The new Building Insption program is serious business. It was implemented after the tragedy that occurred at Champlain Towers. Due to its seriousness, it can only be performed by a Florida-licensed Engineer or architect. Either one of these professionals can carry out the BISP. As structural engineers, we have extensive knowledge of building construction and we also specialize in older buildings.

The reason that a licensed engineer or architect is required is because the inspection report must be signed and sealed. This puts the Building Inspector’s professional licence on the line ensuring that your inspection is backed by a professional. The report must be signed and sealed otherwise the building department will not accept the report.

What's the next step after the building inspector has sent me the inspection report?

Once the Engineer or Architect has finished your inspection you will receive a signed and sealed report with the findings of the inspection. If the Hialeah Building inspector did not find any problems with your Building then you can submit the clean report to the Hialeah Building Department and you are not required to revisit the inspection process for another 10 years.

However, If the Building Inspector found some sort of structural or electrical problems such as concrete spalling, cracks in structural columns, or other structural or electrical problems then you are still required to submit the report to the Hialeah Building Department. If this is the case you need not worry as submitting the inspection report will get you an extension from the Hialeah Building department. This extension which is usually 160 days will allow you time to pull any necessary permits so you can address the issues found.

Summary of the Hialeah Building Safety Inspection program

In Summary, the new Building Safety Inspection (BISP) remains very similar to the previous 40-year inspection program. The major changes are the initial inspection date as well as the new Structural Integrity Reserve Study (SIRS Study). Of course, you still need to complete the Guard Rail inspection and parking lot illumination if you have one attached to your building. This public safety program is beneficial to everyone in Hialeah and will prevent catastrophes like the one that occurred in Surfside.

It also provides help provide building owners, property managers, and HOAs with legal protection. When you have the signed and sealed plans in hand then the Engineer or architect is certifying that they did not find any structural or electrical problems. If someone is injured due to neglecting the condition of your building tenants can sue the owner so it is always best to keep things safe for everyone.

Another benefit of these two building inspections is that you are constantly aware of your Building’s condition and can take actions to ensure it is up-to-date and not hazardous. This holds especially true for buildings near the ocean which can experience accelerated wear and tear. So keeping up with your building’s maintenance will save you thousands in the long run by not letting things get damaged to the point that the building needs to be demolished.

Give us a call today and let us serve as your city of hialeah building inspector. Our structural engineers have a 100% success rate and have completed thousands of inspections across South Florida.

Concrete Repairs on Parking Garage Structures

south florida concrete repair parking lot

Concrete Repairs on Parking Garage Structures

When it comes to parking garage repair or concrete parking lot repair, there are a few important points to consider. Parking garages are very distinct structures from all the other structures out in the world. These structures have large beams and columns and thick slabs that are designed to withstand the daily weight of thousands of heavy vehicles. Furthermore, the vast majority of concrete parking lot structures are open which means that they are in direct contact with the open air.

The weather and chlorides that are present in the air can lead to long-term effects on the concrete. Due to the aforementioned, owners of concrete parking structures should take special care in parking garage maintenance and in monitoring the state of their structure. Naturally, timely corrective measures significantly add to the longevity of structures.

Cracks on your concrete parking structure

Cracks on concrete appear due to many different reasons. These reasons range from pouring a bad batch of concrete, to corrosion and improper curing during the construction process. In other words, it’s those cracks that are caused by the constant movement, expansion, and contraction of the structure and the vehicle traffic.

If you are in a parking garage and you stand still while cars are passing by, you will likely feel yourself vibrating. Of course, this is normal and you shouldn’t be alarmed. The heat and cold cycles of day and night cause the structure to expand and contract. All these items come together to cause fissures in the concrete on a long-term basis. It is normal for the surface of a concrete parking structure to contain cracks. Small cracks typically do not constitute a serious structural problem although a review by a structural engineer is always recommended.

In any event, any type of crack should be filled at a minimum. Your structural engineer will be the person who determines which cracks are serious and which are not. Additionally, the engineer will be the professional who will not only quantify the amount of cracking but will also provide you with the best method and cost of repair.

Needless to say, engineers have the training and the experience to provide you with guidance on dealing with cracks. Furthermore, it is beyond the scope of this blog to instruct the regular layperson on the ins and outs of analyzing a structure.

Concrete spalls on your parking garage

As mentioned above, cracks can pose an immediate serious threat to the structural integrity of the parking structure. However, cracks can also cause long-term damage to the parking deck structure in the form of spalling. This spalling occurs when chlorides seep into the concrete and cause the reinforcing steel inside the concrete to rust, expand, and then rupture the concrete.

You can read more on our Concrete Spalling Guide. This is of particular note in a parking structure that is not only open to the elements but also contains cracks where these salt chlorides can easily access the reinforcing steel and make it rust.

Damage to beams

Parking structures tend to have wide-open spaces. Engineers design parking structures to have as few columns as possible to avoid any collisions with automobiles. This means that the engineers must design long beams that span from column to column. As you might have guessed, the longer the beam, the more stress it takes from the vehicles driving over it. At times, these beams show outward signs of stress by sagging and cracking.

Concrete beams are critical structural elements in a parking garage. If you see widespread cracking on a beam, do not hesitate to contact a local structural engineer to inspect it. Depending on the size, location, and direction of the crack, it could be a tell-tale sign that there is a serious structural failure lurking.

Other types of repairs

If I were to provide a comprehensive list of all the issues that can arise in a concrete parking structure, this blog would be many more pages long. Cracking and spalling are by far the most prevalent issues in a concrete parking garage. To further illustrate, several other types of repairs are typical and these are as follows:

Water intrusion

Although parking garages are open structures, we still like to walk to our car without getting wet while we are still inside the structure. If cracks are large, they will let water seep down into the walls and concrete slab and the water will eventually find its way downward by the force of gravity. Water that goes through concrete picks up chemicals that can consequently damage the nice paint job on your car.

Furthermore, parking structures also have construction joints and caulk joints that can fail. If these joints are not properly maintained, they can also fail and cause leaking of water into the interior floor of the structure. Water can cause concrete degradation over time, therefore to avoid costly parking garage repairs, it’s best to perform regular maintenance and prevent water infiltration.

Garage Repairs can escalate for a lot of reasons but water damage is especially harmful when the structure is using reinforcing steel beams commonly referred to as rebar. These steel beams are susceptible to rust and can cause concrete spalling, weakening the structural elements that keep your parking garage standing.

Rusting steel connection plates

Some parking structures are what we call “pre-cast” where many concrete pieces are brought in and welded together in the field. Each one of these concrete pieces has an “embed” which is a small steel plate where the different pieces make contact and where the welders make the connections to build the structure. These embeds can rust and sometimes fail.

Needless to say, these failures can lead to catastrophic problems and even collapses. Although collapses are rare, the owners of these structures should be vigilant and have a professional structural engineer make periodic inspections on the embeds.

Importance of parking garage maintenance

In conclusion, parking structures are very unique types of structures. They are constantly exposed to the ravages of the weather. Also, they are subjected to extraordinary stresses from the vehicles that day-in and day-out travel through it.

Eventually, failures in the form of cracking and spalling will appear on parking decks, and it is up to the owner of the parking structure and parking garage to ensure that a maintenance regimen is applied to identify these anomalies and cure them. As mentioned above, a structural engineer is your best line of defense in guiding proper maintenance so your concrete parking garage can avoid corrosion, deterioration, and long-term effects of damage.

This guidance is in the form of an inspection to identify any cracking and spalling that has occurred. This professional can also help you in your project by providing you with plans, specifications, and a protocol to perform these repairs.

Engineers who specialize in concrete repair, such as G. Batista & Associates, can guide you through the entire process. This includes obtaining a suitable contractor to perform the repairs. If you do not maintain your parking garage properly you will have to deal with more parking lot repairs then you anticipated.

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