A complete guide to Aventura Building Inspections

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

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?

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.

Which types of properties are most vulnerable to issues?

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.

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

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.

Kendall Building Inspections revisited

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Kendall Building Inspections revisited

The Kendall Building Safety Inspection is part of the Miami-Dade public safety inspection program. The process involves an Engineer or Architect who will examine your building’s structural and electrical systems and look for any problems that could pose a threat to residents or the nearby area. In this article, we will cover all the changes to the new condo inspection laws introduced with Senate Bill 4-D.

We will also go over the new inspection process, what has changed with the previous Kendall 40-year inspection requirements, when the new inspection is required, which buildings require the new inspection, which buildings are exempt, what to do once you receive the letter from the Miami-Dade Building department, and the actions to take once your inspection is completed.

We will also give you recommendations on what to do if the building inspector finds issues in your structure and how to get these problems resolved quickly. As structural engineers, we can serve as your qualified building inspector in Kendall and handle every part of the inspection from start to finish. Our team of building inspectors is always happy to answer any questions you might have during the inspection process.

By reviewing this article on the Kendall Building Safety Inspection Program, you will have a deeper understanding of the recertification process so that you can make informed decisions when hiring a Kendall building inspector. You can click the button below to get a quote for your next building inspection in Kendall within 24 hours.

For your convenience, we have also added the contact information for the Miami-Dade County Building Department which is the county in charge of Kendall Inspections.

Kendall BUILDING DEPARTMENT

11805 SW 26th St, Miami, FL 33175

(786) 315-2000

What changed with Kendall's Building recertification program?

After the collapse of Champlain Towers in Surfside, Floria’s senate quickly took action and passed Senate Bill 4-D. Senate Bill 4-D brought many changes to the existing Kendall 40-year inspection as well as added some new requirements like the Structural Integrity Reserve Study.

One of the changes to the 40-year inspection program is the name. The 40-year inspection was renamed the Building Safety Inspection Program or BISP for short. Along with the name change the initial inspection date was changed from 40 years to 30 years/25 years depending on your building location. If your building is 3 miles or less from the coast then you are required to complete the inspection after 25 years. If your building is more than 3 miles then it is due after 30 years.

The requirements remain the same besides the initial inspection date. The Kendall Building Safety Inspection is still a two-part inspection which includes the structural as well as the electrical portion. It also includes the Miami-Dade requirement of a parking lot illumination inspection along with a guard rail inspection if your building in Kendall has an attached parking lot.

The next major change to the previous 40-year inspection is the addition of the Structural Integrity Reserve Study. The SIRS Study is an additional inspection that is performed by a licensed engineer or architect. It is a visual inspection that determines the current condition of your building and gives you an estimated cost of repairing and maintaining your building. The purpose of this additional inspection is so that property owners, building managers, property managers, and homeowners associations can have the funds prepared for when these repairs will be required.

You can also view our services page or visit the Miami-Dade County inspections page for more info regarding the process and requirements.

What if I already completed The Kendall 40 year recertification?

If you own or manage an older building then there is a high probability that you have already completed the Kendall 40-year inspection. If that is the case then you can continue with the subsequent inspection schedule which is every 10 years. The 40-year recertification Kendall had in place was already very thorough and covered the new requirements and exceeded the requirements set forth by the state.

The main change you will need to implement moving forward is the new Structural Integrity Reserve Study. The SIRS Study is a new program that we discussed above geared to ensuring you have the funds available when they are required. Many building owners in Kendall were caught off guard by these inspections and they can be costly if your building is not maintained properly.

What is inspected during the Kendall Building Safety inspection?

The two elements the Kendall Building inspector will examine when they visit your property are the Structural and Electrical elements of your building. In the structural portion, the Building Inspection company will inspect several structural elements such as the foundation, load-bearing walls, steel beams, wood columns, and concrete framing systems to name a few. They will look around windows and doors for cracks or signs of concrete spalling.

In the electrical portion of the inspection, the Kendall Building Inspection company handling the inspection will look at your electrical panels and make sure they are in working order. The building inspector will also examine any exterior connections such as your electrical main panels and your electrical closet to look for any lose wires or corrosion around the electrical conduits.

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

Any condominium or building in Kendall that is 3,500 square feet or more and also has 3 stories or more is required to complete the Building Safety Inspection. These new condominium laws are not just for condos they are applied to any building that meets the requirements we talked about above. If your building is more than 3 miles from the coast your first inspection will be required after 30 years.

If your building is 3 miles or less from the coast then you will be required to complete the inspection after 25 years. Most buildings in Kendall are further than 3 miles away from the coast so you will have to complete the inspection after 30 years. One key note to remember is that if your building requires the Building Safety Inspection it will also require you to complete the SIRS Study inspection as well.

What buildings in Kendall are not required to complete the Building Safety inspection?

Some of the buildings in Kendall are not required to complete these inspections. The buildings which are exempt from these requirements, include U.S. government buildings, State Buildings, Indian reservations, school buildings under the Miami-Dade county school board, one or two-family story buildings, fee-simple townhouses, and minor structures that have less than 3500 sq ft.

How to submit your Inspection report to the Miami Dade Building Deptartment?

Once you have received signed and sealed plans from the engineer or architect then you can submit the inspection report for approval by the Miami-Dade Building Department. If the building inspector that did the inspection did not find anything then you are done for another 10 years.

However, if there were issues found in the report you can submit the inspection report and the Miami Dade building department will issue you an extension so that you can get the permits required and start working on the repairs. At Askgbatista.com we have a 100% success rate with our inspections and have completed thousands of these building safety inspections across Florida.

Summary of the Kendall Building inspections program

If you own a condominum or a warehouse in Kendall that stands at three stories or more and hits the 25 year or 30 year mark, it is time to complete your Kendall Building Safety Inspection. This new inspection which was updated to include the requirements found in Senate Bill 4-D includes and exceeds all of the requirements. Along with the changes to the Kendall Building Inspection program the addition of the SIRS Study is an important change.

Make sure to keep your mailing address up to date because the Miami-Dade Building Department will send you a certified letter when you are getting close to your inspection date. Overall it is a good idea to keep your building up to date and maintained in order to avoid costly repairs when it comes time to getting your building inspected.

As structural engineers we are one of the best building inspectors to hire because we have a comprehensive understanding of your buildings structural components which is the key element to these inspections. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions that were not answered in this article.

HOW MUCH DOES A 40-YEAR RECERTIFICATION COST?

HOW MUCH DOES A 40-YEAR RECERTIFICATION COST?

If you are reading this blog, then you have received your notice to perform a 40 Year Inspection. Simply put, a 40 Year Recertification is an inspection that is required by the State of Florida when a building turns 40 years old. Additionally, you must to inspections every 10 years thereafter. You can find a lot of information on the web that will help you understand what a 40-year recertification is. However, this blog is about the price of a 40-year inspection. But in order to talk about the cost, one must realize the reason for the existence of the 40-year inspections, to begin with. If your looking to hire a building inspector you can click the button below to get a quote within 24 hours.

Beginnings of the 40 Year Recertification

The 40 Year Recertifications were put into law primarily for the public safety. Building owners perform upgrades and renovations to buildings without pulling permits. Also, Owners many times do not maintain their buildings properly. As a result, many properties contain unsafe conditions for its occupants. Examples of these unsafe conditions are as follows:

Faulty or exposed wiring
Spalling concrete
Hidden structural problems
Failed roofing systems
Possible fire hazards

The law requires that a licensed architect or engineer take the responsibility of the inspection and submit a signed and sealed report.

The Cost of a 40 Year Recertification

The best way to find out how much a 40 Year Recertification will cost you is by calling around and getting proposals. Of course, a simple search on the internet will yield lots of information on available professionals in your area. Each engineer or architect has their own way of calculating how much they are going to charge you for an inspection. The following are the items that most affect the price of a 40 year building inspection (in order of importance):

Size of the building (i.e. number of units)
Complexity of the structure
Accessibility

Size of the Building being inspected

As you may have guessed, the size of the building is the factor that most affects the price of a 40 Year Recertification. Lets take the example of an inspector that has decided he must visit 50 apartments in the case of a high-rise building. An inspection like this could take most of the day. Depending on the inspectors findings, the report could be lengthy.

Complexity of the Structure

As an extreme example, lets say that the inspector is to do a 40 year inspection of an electrical plant for FP&L. On the structural side, there are many unusual structures such as towers and trusses which are difficult to inspect. On the electrical side, there are high-power devices and mechanisms that are not typical to a regular inspection. Naturally, the inspector will have a very difficult time looking into all the details unless he has much experience with these types of structures.

On the other hand, a much simpler inspection would involve a one-story four-plex apartment building. Typically, these buildings are constructed of concrete and block and a have a roof structure that has trusses and a shingle roof. This simple building will also likely have 4 electrical meters and an electrical panel for each unit.

Accessibility

Although this does not tend to be an issue, accessibility can be a big problem. An example of difficult accessibility is the lack of authorization to enter the units of an apartment building. Another example is where the inspector cannot easily see possible structural problems at the exterior of a 50 story high-rise building. Accessibility issues can be easily overcome by coordinating with the Owner by planning ahead.

Conclusion of Building recertification & Milestone Inspection Cost

Although the cost of a 40 Year Recertification can vary widely from professional to professional, there are certain basic items that can affect the cost. Either way, it is a good idea to understand what these potential issues are so you can discuss these with your engineer. Your engineer can provide you with a proposal once he has a good understanding of your building. Some engineers provide a price “per door” or per apartment. Prices can range between $10 per door to $300 per door (depending on many factors). Others provide a price based on square footage. Still others take into consideration the location or the structure, its age, and even if it has a crawl space that he may have to squeeze into.

Be ready to provide answers to your engineer. The better information you provide, the better proposal you will get. Let G. Batista & Associates provide you with a proposal.

The Complete Deerfield Beach Building Inspections Checklist

deerfield-beach-building-recertification-guide-min

The Complete Deerfield Beach Building Inspections Checklist

The Deerfield Beach Building Safety Inspection program is a new inspection program that is replacing the previous 40-year inspection. The Deerfield Beach 40-year inspection was already very comprehensive so the only new changes you will have to consider are the date of your first inspection as well as the new inspection that was introduced. The new inspection program is required when your building reaches 25 years old but has the same requirements as a structural and electrical inspection.

In this article, we will go over all of the new changes to the Deerfield Beach inspection process and what it entails. Along with that, we will also let you know what the Structural Integrity Reserve Study is, what to do once you pass the inspection, how to proceed if you already completed the 40-year inspection, and any additional information so that you can learn more about the inspection process and requirements.

We have also listed the Deerfield Beach Building Department contact information below for your convenience if you have any specific questions that were not answered in this article. You can always reach out to us if you are confused about the requirements or would like us to get started on your inspection. You can click the button below to get a quick quote for your next building inspection in Deerfield Beach.

Deerfield Beach BUILDING DEPARTMENT

150 N.E. 2nd Ave. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441

[email protected]

(561) 301-7186

Why did The Deerfield Beach Building recertification program change?

The main reason behind the new condominium inspection laws was the Surfside condominium collapse in June 2021. This unfortunate event prompted the senate to create more stringent requirements as well as implement the Milestone inspection program state-wide. Many people lost their lives during the event and the Senate quickly acted introducing Senate Bill 4-D. These new changes will ensure that building owners are keeping up with routine maintenance and repairs.

Although the new state-wide Milestone Inspection program will affect many counties that did not have a building inspection program in place Deerfield Beach was already following the guidelines set forth by Broward County’s 40-year inspection program. The 40-year inspection program already covered many of the requirements so the major change was the date of your first inspection as well as the introduction of the Structural Integrity Reserve Study.

What if I already completed The Deerfield Beach 40 year recertification?

If you own or manage a building that is over 40 years old then there is a high probability that you have already completed the Deerfield Beach 40-year inspection. The new building safety inspection is similar in its requirements so you can continue doing the subsequent inspections every 10 years. One new additional requirement that was introduced with Senate Bill 4-D is the structural integrity reserve study.

The Deerfield Beach SIRS study is an additional inspection that is required and must also be completed by a qualified building inspector such as a Florida-licensed engineer or architect. The SIRS study is a visual inspection of your building’s current condition. The building inspector will then provide you with an estimated cost of maintaining and repairing your building.

What is inspected during the Deerfield Beach Building inspection?

The Deerfield Beach Building Safety Inspection examines two crucial elements of your building. It is composed of a structural inspection and an electrical inspection. Each is crucial to the safety of your residents and the surrounding neighborhood. As we learned with the Champlain Towers neglecting the structural elements of a building can have detrimental effects on the building, the people living in the building, and the surrounding neighborhood. The structural inspection process looks at key elements of your building including columns, load-bearing walls, foundation, and any concrete, wood, or metal framing.

The second portion is the electrical inspection. The electrical portion of the Building Safety Inspection focuses on your building’s electrical system and ensures it is in working order. Some of the areas the building inspector will examine on your building’s electrical system include the electrical panels, air conditioning units, as well as any electrical conduits that are exposed. The building inspector will look at your electrical panels, junction boxes, and conduits and check if there is corrosion or any open spaces from knockouts that were not used.

Deerfield Beach building department inspections can be complicated but we are experts and have completed thousands of inspections. Our team of structural engineers is standing by to help you complete your next inspection.

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

If you wondering whether your building in Deerfield Beach requires a Building Safety Inspection we will go over that in this section. If you own or manage a building that is at least 3,500 square feet and has 3 stories or more then you are required to complete the Deerfield Beach Safety Inspection as well as the Deerfield Beach SIRS Study.

Whether your building in Deerfield Beach is near the coast or not you will have to complete your first inspection when it reaches 25 years of age. After your first inspection or if you have already completed a 40-year inspection in the past then you will need to complete the Building Safety Inspection every 10 years.

What buildings in Deerfield Beach are exempt from the Building Safety inspection program?

Some buildings in Deerfield Beach are not required to complete the Building Safety Inspection such as U.S. government buildings, state of Florida buildings, Indian reservations, school buildings under the county school board, one or two-family story buildings, fee-simple townhouses, and any structures that are under 3500 sq ft.

How to submit your inspection Report to the Deerfield Beach Building Department?

Once the building inspector has provided you with a signed and sealed report you can then submit the inspection report to the Deerfield Beach Building Department. The best way to submit the report is in person at the Deerfield Beach building department location. Deerfield Beach requires you to submit the inspection report in person at the building department located at 150 N.E. 2nd Ave. Deerfield Beach, FL 33441.

You can also send it in by mail to the building department address just make sure to add ATTENTION BUILDING DEPARTMENT somewhere in the letter to ensure the Deerfield Beach building department receives the letter.

Final thoughts on the Deerfield beach Building inspections program

If your building in Deerfield Beach reaches the 25-year mark and stands at three stories or higher, it is required to undergo a Building Safety Inspection. This inspection is part of Deerfield Beach’s public safety program to ensure that buildings are safe for residents and the surrounding areas. The new inspection program not only meets but also surpasses the new requirements outlined in Senate Bill 4-D’s milestone inspection.

It is important to keep your contact information up to date since the Deerfield Beach building department will be sending you a letter when your building inspection is nearing the time for the building safety inspection. However, even if you do not receive the letter it is your responsibility to follow up and get your inspection completed within the required time frame.

Failure to complete the Deerfield Beach building recertification could lead to penalties starting from $500 a day. Even worse the Deerfield Beach building department can deem your building unsafe and you will have to vacate all of the tenants. This is why the building inspection is crucial and you should make sure to get it done properly by a qualified building inspector in Deerfield Beach.

Remember that if the building inspector finds issues in your building it is not something to worry about. Even if your report includes problems with your building the Deerfield Beach building department will grant you an extension after you have submitted the report. The extension will allow you more time to pull permits and address the issues found in the report.

Overall the new changes to the Deerfield Beach Building inspection program are very similar to the previous 40-year inspection program. The 40-year inspection program and the new Building Safety Inspection and SIRS Study were all created to provide a safe environment for all residents of Deerfield Beach. We would be happy to serve as your Deerfield Beach building inspector and have the qualifications and experience to get it done right.