Are you a condominium or cooperative building owner in Florida? If so, it’s crucial to understand the importance of Milestone Inspections and how they ensure your property’s structural integrity and safety. In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about these mandatory inspections, from what they involve to when they’re required.
Florida’s Statewide Mandatory Structural Inspections
As of May 26, 2022, Florida law mandates that condominium and cooperative association buildings that are three stories or taller must undergo Milestone Inspections. These inspections are a legal requirement designed to ensure the structural integrity of the building and licensed Professional Engineers to conduct them.
Milestone Inspections are performed when a building reaches a certain age: 25 years for facilities within three miles of the coastline and 30 years for buildings farther from the coastline. For buildings that have already passed their milestone year, an inspection must be done by December 31, 2024.
Understanding Milestone Inspection Phases
Milestone Inspections typically involve two phases, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of your building’s structural condition:
- Phase One: This phase includes a visual examination of the building’s major structural components, such as load-bearing walls, primary structural members, and primary structural systems. The aim is to determine the general structural condition and the need for any repairs, maintenance, or component replacements.
- Phase Two is only necessary if substantial structural deterioration is identified during Phase One. It may involve destructive or nondestructive testing, as directed by the inspector.
Upon completion of either phase, a detailed report is submitted outlining any structural issues, recommended repairs, and the structural condition of the building. This report is shared with the condominium or cooperative association and the local government’s building official.
Your Milestone Inspection Report
After completing the Milestone Inspection, you can expect a comprehensive report from the licensed Florida Engineer who conducted the inspection. This report will include the following essential information:
- Repair Recommendations: Suggest remedial or preventative repairs for any damaged components that do not exhibit substantial structural deterioration.
- Further Inspection: Identification of any items requiring additional inspection and descriptions.
- Certification: The report will tolerate the seal and signature or electronic signature of the licensed Florida Engineer who conducted the milestone inspection.
- Inspection Details: It will indicate the method and type of inspection conducted as the basis for the report.
- Structural Deterioration: Detailed descriptions of any substantial structural deterioration and recommended repairs.
- Safety Conditions: A statement regarding whether any observed conditions are considered unsafe or dangerous per the Florida Building Code definitions.
When Is Your Property Due for a Milestone Inspection?
The timing of your building’s Milestone Inspection depends on its proximity to the coastline:
- If your building is within three miles of the coastline, a Milestone Inspection is required at 25 years of age.
- If your building is more than three miles from the coastline, an inspection is required when the building reaches 30 years of age.
- Subsequent inspections are needed every ten years.
For buildings issued a certificate of occupancy on or before July 1, 1992, the initial Milestone Inspection must be done by December 31, 2024. When a Milestone Inspection is due, your condominium or cooperative association will receive a written notice from the local enforcement agency at the beginning of the year. Upon receiving this notice, the inspection must be completed within 180 days, and the association is responsible for arranging and ensuring compliance.
Navigating Milestone Inspections
Civil engineering companies work hard to simplify the entire Milestone Inspection process for you. Our experienced team conducts these inspections meticulously, adhering to all Florida statutes, and ensures that every aspect of your building is assessed comprehensively. We take pride in guiding you through the inspection process, understandably explaining technical details, and informing you about your building’s structural integrity.
Your Milestone Inspection Needs
Civil engineering companies have a common goal: to help you navigate this critical process effortlessly and on time. If your building is due for a Milestone Inspection or if you have any questions, please get in touch with a reputable company to ensure your property’s safety and compliance. Your building’s structural integrity is our top priority.
