Difference Between a Threshold and a Special Inspection? (Video)

“Hi, my name is Greg Batista here to answer another question from the internet.

BuildItBob asks: What’s the difference between a threshold inspector and a special inspector in Florida?

Ill keep it simple.

A Threshold Inspector is required by Florida law for large or complex structures — typically buildings over three stories or 50 feet high, or with an assembly occupancy of 500 or more people. Their role is to ensure critical structural components like foundations, columns, slabs, and connections are built exactly as the engineer’s plans and the Florida Building Code require. Threshold Inspectors are licensed engineers or architects registered with the Building Official.

A Special Inspector, on the other hand, is assigned to specific materials, systems, or construction methods that need extra oversight. Examples include structural steel welding, masonry, precast concrete, or post-tension systems on smaller buildings than threshold buidlings. Special inspections may be mandated by the Florida Building Code or the project’s Engineer of Record.

Both roles add safety, but threshold inspection is broad and building-wide, while special inspection is narrow and technical.

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Authoritative references: Florida Statute 553.79; Florida Building Code Section 110.8; Florida Board of Professional Engineers guidance.

The author, Greg Batista, PE, CGC, SI is owner of G. Batista Engineering & Construction and is a nationally-recognized engineer and contractor with more than 35 years of experience and offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.