What is a Threshold Building?

“Threshold Building” refers to every building that is greater than three stories or 50 feet in height or has an assembly occupancy classification as described in the Florida Building Code that exceeds 5,000 square feet in area and has an occupant capacity of more than 500 individuals (According to Florida statute Chapter 553 Section 71).

Threshold inspectors carry out structural inspections and assessments of a threshold building in conjunction with a structural inspection performed by an engineer. If you own a property under construction that matches these conditions, a threshold inspection is required. The goal is to improve the safety of the building’s structure in order to avoid catastrophic consequences.
You may have heard of the complete collapse of a building in Cocoa Beach Florida in 1981 (Harbour Cay Condominium) which left 11 workers dead and 23 severely injured. An eyewitness said, “It fell just like a house of cards.” So, there is no doubt safety is everyone’s number one priority, especially in Florida which poses unique environmental challenges for buildings. Based on this incident, Florida’s Threshold Inspection Law was created.

What is a Threshold Inspection?

A threshold inspection consists of a series of inspections of a threshold building site, specifically during construction, to ensure that the design, requirements, and inspection schedule meet Florida code standards. This is performed by a licensed Structural Engineer certified in Special or Threshold Inspections.

Who carries out a Threshold Inspection?

In accordance with the Florida code 61G1-25.003, Florida-licensed structural engineers are eligible to serve as threshold building inspectors. To be an accredited state-certified special inspector, they must:

  • Have at least two years of experience in the structural architecture of threshold buildings
  • Have at least three years of experience conducting structural inspections, including a minimum of three threshold structures (obtained within seven years of applying for certification).


Do you need a Threshold Inspection?

Our competitive rates on our Threshold Building Inspections and Special Inspections are very attractive. We can provide you with guidance during the entire process. Also, we can help with dealing with the paperwork.

Call G. Batista to discuss your project (954) 434 2053

What is the role of a Threshold Inspector?

The Threshold inspector is a certified and licensed engineer or architect, with structural integrity as their sole focus. They make sure that a threshold building project meets all necessary checkpoints for structural components.

Some of the duties they perform include making sure the entire structure construction is done in accordance with the project requirements and checks of structural components are performed, including CMU, cast-in-place concrete, steel reinforcement, shoring/restoring, post-tension wire, precast/prestress elements, metal studs, external window structures, and timber frame systems. This job requires the physical ability to negotiate standard building terrain and climb ladders in order to reach remote locations. Other duties include:

  • Inspection of all structural elements in compliance with the Threshold Inspection Programme
  • Verification that the shoring & reshoring has been reviewed to conform with the shoring schedule.
  • Conduct such field checks or inquiries where applicable
  • Track the concrete location
  • Assist in pre-construction sessions
  • Communicate with project engineers, other inspectors, and building workers
  • Follow and endorse all protocols and practice on-site safety and protection standards

How are Threshold Building Inspections performed?

Prior to a threshold building inspection, the engineer or architect will have examined the report in accordance with the sketches of the building and the structural documentation of the components being inspected.

When they arrive, they’ll look at such things as:

  • Placement of concrete and slump
  • Any structural elements and interfaces inside the building
  • Placement of concrete and slump
  • Placement of Grout
  • Reinforcement of steel parts prior to the construction of concrete

If they find any anomalies from the rules or requirements, they bring them to the attention of the general contractor or project manager, and these items must be corrected for a declaration of compliance to be issued.

Once all structural work has been adequately completed, the inspector shall supply the local compliance department with a signed and sealed declaration certifying that all load-bearing components conform with the approved documentation and that the shoring and reshoring arrangements comply with those submitted to the Agency. The project manager, building owner, General Contractor, and/or Architect or Engineer of record will get a copy of the statement.

Do you need a Threshold Inspection?

Our competitive rates on our Threshold Inspections and Special Inspections are very attractive.  We can provide you with guidance during the entire process. Also, we can help with dealing with the paperwork.

Call G. Batista to discuss your project (954) 434 2053