Here’s How Surfside Condo Collapse Brought About The Latest Changes To 40-Year Recertification Inspections
The partial collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside, Florida, in 2021 had shaken the entire United States and many other countries, raising the topic of whether or not poor governance played a factor in the tower’s failure. The 40-year recertification inspections were underway while this incident took place. Is it because the condo board members have a short-term vision towards maintenance? Or is it because the communities of individual owners, the vast majority of whom do not have any training in real estate management, cannot successfully supervise the administration of a complex asset such as a high-rise building? The fatalities ranged in age from one year old all the way up to ninety-two years old, and it took the search and rescue personnel an entire month to discover and identify all the 98 victims. The tragedy had a significant and lasting impact on families worldwide, especially a Jewish community in South Florida. What Do We Know About the Surfside Condo Collapse? A little over a year has elapsed since the terrible and tragic partial collapse of the Surfside building. It took the loss of 98 valuable lives for the authorities to realize that there should be rigorous rules in place to prevent any future mishaps of a similar nature. In addition, memorial services were held on June 24, 2022, exactly one year after the tragic event, followed by a private gathering with the victims’ family members. The event timing was the exact time of the collapse, which was at 1:22 in the morning. Despite the numerous hypotheses and investigations that have been conducted, the reason for the collapse is still a mystery. Here is what we know about the Surfside collapse. Survivors of the Collapse The Champlain Towers collapse occurred at 1:30 in the morning, and shockingly, it happened in just a matter of minutes. While this happened, most residents were asleep, and it was reported that there were only three survivors from the initial collapse. Despite the efforts of global rescue teams, who collaborated and worked around the clock for approximately two weeks, there weren’t any survivors found. However, residents from the other half of the building, which was still standing, were able to escape. The officials counted 98 deaths in the condo collapse, and this event is amongst the most destructive building collapses in the history of the United States. A 40-year Recertification Inspections Were in Progress In 1974, a property in the Miami area collapsed. Post this incident, commercial and residential buildings (40 years after their construction) had to undergo a compulsory inspection, as per the law enforced by county legislators. The 40-year recertification inspections were still happening when a part of the Champlain towers building tumbled. The condo club hired a home foundation structural engineer firm for this process. Their reports stated concrete structural damage to concrete structural slabs on the pool deck because of failed waterproofing. Even a $9 million estimate was provided for the repairs, but they never got completed. Reasons Behind the Collapse Nobody knows what caused the collapse of the residential building. Many potential avenues have been suggested, all of which are now being investigated. The basement parking garage most likely experienced long-term structural damage due to water intrusion and corrosion of the steel supports. Much like every other one, the property in Champlain Towers South was subject to the effects of coastal elements. The building experienced damage as a result of previous tidal occurrences as well as the salty, corrosive ocean. Severe weather might have brought about the building’s downfall. It’s also likely that the tower’s location was affected by the erosion of a nearby barrier island. Because it is located on a barrier island, Surfside is vulnerable to the wind and water that hurricanes and tropical storms might bring. Coastal erosion may have caused the building to become more unstable. Multiple factors contributed to the tower’s instability, as stated in the complaint lodged on behalf of the victims’ families in the class-action case. These include inappropriate pile-driving, digging, and construction at a neighboring 18-story condo structure, which brought structural issues to a skyscraper that was already susceptible to damage. Many have blamed the faulty design and poor construction of the Champlain Towers for the collapse. Underfunding and inadequate inspections and repairs by the condo association may have deteriorated the tower. This has rendered it more susceptible to the elements. Numerous factors likely triggered this tragic event. Read further: How to Hire an Engineer for 40 Year Recertification Inspection Compensation for the Victims’ Families A grant of $1.02 billion was approved as a settlement for the victims’ families. The family attorneys mutually decided to reach an agreement than invite extensive court procedures, which could have taken years to deliver results. Furthermore, this grant of $1.02 billion comes from various origins like engineering firms, insurance companies, and a luxurious condominium constructed recently. Apart from that, billionaire Hussain Sajwani, the Founder and Chairman of DAMAC, bought the 1.8 acres of land at a $120 million bid. That amount will also be leveraged towards compensating the families of the victims. Changes to the 40-year Recertification Inspections The county sends a letter to the property owners informing them of the requirement for recertification at the appropriate time. Thereafter, they have a total of ninety days to finish the procedure and hand in the material relating to the report. Every participating county has enforced the modifications to the 40 year structural inspection and recertification program due to an increase in the number of unsafe building assessments. The county of Miami-Dade has been the leader in terms of the number of programme modifications that have been put into effect. Legislation passed in February of 2022 will provide residents of condos in Miami-Dade County with an additional layer of security. The existing code for building recertification will get updated and given additional reinforcements thanks to this ordinance. It includes 30-year recertification inspections instead of the 40-year mark, an inspection every ten years thereafter, a notice period
What is a home foundation inspection?
A foundation inspection is something you must conduct for your home. As your home gets older, it is sure to develop structural problems, and that can wreak havoc if left unchecked. The strength of your building depends on its foundation, which means you need to have a sound base. No matter how solid your building’s structure is, a damaged foundation can endanger its security. So getting an inspection from time to time makes sense, especially if the time for 40-year building recertification is nearing. Even though a foundation inspection might sound expensive, you’ll be surprised to know that building inspections are quite budget friendly. That means hiring a home building inspector and conducting an in-depth assessment need not break your bank. Also, repairs post the inspection process are cost-effective since all it takes at times is a bit of epoxy and sealant. However, it’s good to let a pro home building inspector identify the problem areas precisely and suggest the best remedy. In fact, a qualified foundation inspector can tell you exactly how much you need to spend on the restoration process. There’s so much more to residential structure inspections, and it can even get you confused at times. That’s precisely why we seek to make the process hassle-free by compiling a complete guide for a home foundation inspection. So let’s dive in. Home Foundation Inspection: FAQs #1. Why do you need a home foundation inspection? As you’ve seen, a home foundation inspection is something you should go for on a periodic basis. You may ask why exactly do you need one? A home with foundational problems can pose a major risk to the safety of its inhabitants. For instance, a home with an unsound foundation can even start to fall apart in no time. So you can have anywhere from collapsing roofs to crumbling floors to cracking walls. You don’t want to live in a building as unsafe as that, do you? By getting a timely foundation inspection, you can determine the problems with your building early on and get them fixed. In fact, getting your home foundation inspected and repaired on time will save you money. That’s because repairing a damaged foundation can be an expensive affair and even cost you more than the total worth of your building. There’s more to the story. If you are planning on buying an existing home, you should definitely get its foundation inspected by a licensed inspector. Especially if you’re to buy an old building with a 40-year recertification deadline nearing, you shouldn’t miss on house structural inspection. You see, there are higher chances for older buildings approaching their 40 year structural inspection deadline to have foundational issues. So with proper know-how of the building’s foundation, you stand to have the upper hand in negotiations. That’s interesting for sure, isn’t it? #2. Who should conduct the foundation inspection? You can even walk around your home and observe the bowing walls, expanding cracks, etc., in detail by yourself. However, unless you’re a housing expert, it’s difficult to know what the problem exactly is, what’s causing it, and how to fix it. So it makes sense to hire a qualified home structural inspector or foundation engineer to conduct your home foundation evaluation. A professional home building inspector is well-trained in the nitty-gritty of building foundations. That means a building inspector best knows the reasons that lead to a damaged home foundation and also the right way to fix it. The best part is that even if your foundation is beyond repair, a home structural inspector can help you find the best way out. A qualified inspector will precisely tell you the present situation of your home’s structure, the safety issues it poses, and the possible solution. Moreover, since the foundation engineers or inspectors don’t make the required repairs themselves, you can rest assured of a trustworthy home foundation evaluation report. #3. What does a foundation inspection involve? To begin with, a structural inspection involves a visual assessment of your home’s exteriors, interiors, and vicinity. Herein, the home structure inspector looks for signs of foundational damage like cracks, moist and damp areas, etc. Next, the inspection team will measure the elevation of your floor and check your doors and walls for plumpness. If they find problems, the inspectors will conduct a forensic analysis to determine their exact source. If you’re wondering what might cause foundational problems in your home, it can be anywhere from still water to low-quality grading. Finally, when the foundation inspection is complete, you’ll get a report from the building inspector detailing recommendations for your home. And here’s the catch: you don’t get price quotes for your home foundation or structure repair in this report. So you’ll need to reach out to a home foundation repair company with the inspection report to determine the cost of repairs. #4. When should you go for a home structural engineer inspection? While a professional home foundation or structural inspection is something you should go for regularly, it is a must-have in some situations. So let’s have a look at them. When buying a new home If you’re looking to buy a new home, you should definitely get a general home inspection for the property, as it’ll give you a fair idea of damage symptoms. Also, the home inspector may suggest a detailed inspection of the building’s foundation upon sensing any problem. So you can hire a home structural inspector and get to know the exact foundational problems in the property. In fact, if the foundational inspection report flags concerns, it can even be the basis for renegotiating the purchase deal. That means you can either ask the building owner to repair the foundation or negotiate a lower price for the property. When selling your home It’s a good idea to get a foundation inspection and fix any possible problems when planning to sell your home. That way, you can assure the prospective buyers that your property has a sound foundation and, in return,
5 Common Defects You May Find During 40 Year Structural Inspection
The 40 year structural inspection process, also called milestone inspections, is the most important safety scheme for your home. Such is the importance of this safety exercise that even your building’s 40-year recertification hinges on it. So it’s not surprising that you’re legally required to conduct a 40-year inspection for your home or building in Florida. Also, it is common to come across certain defects while going about with a foundational or structural engineer inspection. In fact, the very idea behind building structure inspections is to detect and remedy the defects before they wreak havoc. However, any problem/s detected during the house structural inspection will only delay your building’s recertification and increase your hassle if left unaddressed. How? You see, the 40 year recertification rules in Miami-Dade and Broward counties are very clear about inspection and post-inspection requirements. And that includes a post-inspection report by the home structural inspector, which shall be the basis of recertification. So a negative report with details of defects in your building means the county will not recertify your property. Thankfully, both Miami-Dade and Broward counties allow you 180 days to get the defects in your property fixed. And once you’ve duly addressed the problem areas, the county will proceed with your building’s recertification. If you are wondering what defects a 40 year structural inspection may flag in your property, we’ve detailed them all. So let’s have a look at some common structural problems that can prop up during your 40 year building inspection. #1. Defects in the roofing One of the most common structural defects that you can find during the 40 year inspection is damaged roofing. Damaged roofing poses serious risks to the safety of building inhabitants since you never know when it might collapse. And this problem is even more vivid here in Florida, as our roofs are exposed to unpredictable weather conditions. However, you can’t detect roofing defects till you notice leaks or visible moisture, which only adds to the problem. That is precisely where the skills of a seasoned structural building inspector come in handy. You may wonder how a home structural engineer inspection makes a difference. As you can see, one can’t spot roofing defects easily, and a non-professional inspection will surely miss signs of damage. An experienced structural engineer will spot and tell you the exact nature of the problem at first glance itself. Further, many roofing problems occur either beneath the surface or in the attic, which isn’t visible from the outside. So you won’t be able to spot these problems even after serious damage has been caused. The structural engineer you hire for the 40 year inspection will detect these issues and bring them to your notice. Pro tip The Miami-Dade and Broward counties allow 180 days’ time to get defects detected during the 40 year structural inspection fixed. But it’s better to get your damaged roofing repaired or replaced, as might be the case, sooner rather than later. You see, your roofing damages will only get worse with time, and ignoring them will create deep structural problems. Also, we suggest you conduct a general roofing inspection at least twice a year, more so after extreme weather events. That’s because your roof can take a toll during weather extremities like hurricanes and windstorms. In fact, regular inspections will detect problems in the early stages. And since smaller defects usually require a concrete repair by a concrete restoration contractor, it won’t break your bank. #2. Deck failures are usually found during 40 year structural inspection Among the common problems that you can spot during the 40 year structural inspection is deck failure in your home. Your deck can be a sturdy structure designed to withstand heavy weights of both people and objects. You may have also designed it to be resistant to various stresses resulting from seismic activities or heavy winds. However, your deck will induce damage or develop problems over a period of time by being exposed to nature. And a defective deck, as such, will be prone to partial or total collapse and can result in grievous injuries. During the 40 year inspection process, your structural engineer will detect and document the potential failure of your building’s decking system. Also, the structural engineer will recommend deck fixes after the inspection is over, enabling a quick 40 year recertification. You’ll be surprised to know that Florida’s warm coastal climate can also be the worst enemy of your home’s deck. As a matter of fact, 90 percent of decks collapse during the summer as a result of the hot climate. That’s because the ledger board of the deck separates from your home due to warm conditions, allowing the deck to swing away. So you should be particularly vigilant about the possibilities of a deck failure during residential or commercial building inspections. You see, there is no way of spotting a damaged deck other than a structural engineer home inspection. And that’s exactly why we recommend going for such inspections from time to time. #3. A 40 year structural inspection can help spot electrical problems You should include a comprehensive assessment of your home’s electrical systems during the 40 year structural inspection. One of the common electrical problems that you may find during your building’s inspection is inappropriately wired switches. It usually happens when you hire an unprofessional and inexperienced electrician to make electrical connections. And when left unfixed, it will make your property vulnerable to electrical hazards, endangering the safety of residents. Another electrical problem that a 40 year structural inspection can throw open is a faulty or missing GFI unit. These units are installed near wet areas, like your bathroom, and if you don’t replace them on time, it will expose the residents to the risk of electrocution. Further, your building inspector can even find problems with the underground wiring, which you’ll then need to re-install correctly. You see, faulty wiring, among other electrical defects, can be the worst nightmare for the residents of a
When and Why Should You Go For An Infrared Thermography Inspection
An infrared thermography inspection has become a quintessential feature of home inspections, so much so that it’s even required by law. Why is that so, you may ask? As you know, a regular house structural inspection is something you need to conduct as a property owner or building association member. In fact, the state of Florida legally requires you to conduct a 25/35 or 30/40 year structural inspection, depending on the location of your building. That’s because a structural engineer inspection not only determines the current state of your building but also recommends remedies to fix structural flaws. However, building structure inspections can be time-consuming and, at times, involve wear and tear for a full-proof structural assessment. And that’s precisely where an infrared thermal inspection comes in handy, making the entire process quick and smooth. You see, a milestone structural inspection is simply incomplete without an infrared thermographer since many structural components need infrared analysis. And it is for this reason that Miami-Dade county has proposed to make a Level II infrared thermography inspection mandatory. There’s much more to infrared thermography and why you need to go for one. But before we go through it, let’s have a look at the basics of infrared thermography inspection through some FAQs. Infrared Thermography Inspection: FAQs #1. What is an infrared thermography inspection? Infrared thermography is a method of building inspection wherein a thermographer uses thermal imaging devices and equipment to detect problems in your home. Since different structures emit different infrared energy levels, thermography inspections take advantage of these variations to detect structural faults. You might wonder how this works. Unlike regular light that is visible to us, infrared light is invisible due to its long wavelength. So thermographers use infrared cameras for detecting infrared thermal emissions, which are displayed in the form of color gradients. And since the temperature differences within your home are visible in different color forms, it helps inspectors spot structural defects. Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? #2. How does infrared thermography come in handy? When it comes to residential or commercial building inspections, infrared thermography can cover a huge area in little time. Also, infrared inspections are a non-invasive method for building structural assessments, meaning they don’t involve wear and tear. So you can rest assured of a safe home structural engineer inspection, worry-free of post-inspection concrete repair or concrete restoration. Want more? Infrared thermography can be used for detecting wall cracks and roof leakages, along with a comprehensive inspection of your home’s electrical, plumbing, and insulation systems. Further, an infrared thermography inspection allows home inspectors to spot minor problems before they become big and break your bank. Amazing, right? #3. What does an infrared thermography inspection reveal? Infrared building inspections are the best you can find such hidden problems in your home that can’t be detected otherwise. Wondering what infrared thermography can throw up? Well, an infrared thermography inspection can detect a host of problems like structural issues, foundational cracks, faulty electrical wiring, etc. Also, it can reveal moisture hidden within your home’s structure, which can be the source of roof leaks, mold, etc. And as we explained in our previous blog, infrared inspections can save you up to $11,000 in building repairs. That’s because it detects problems much before they get bigger and become a headache for you. You see, leaving these problems unaddressed will only cost you big in the future in terms of large-scale repair and restoration. Infrared Thermography Inspection: When And Why To Go For It #1. When buying a home An infrared thermography inspection can help you get the best deal when buying your new home. How? When you’re planning on buying a home, it is a common practice to get a thorough foundation and structural engineer inspection, among others. No matter whether it’s a century-old house or a month-old home, a detailed inspection report is a prerequisite. That’s because it lets you know the overall condition of the property you are interested in buying. And there’s no better way of getting to know the hidden details of the property you’re paying so dearly for than infrared thermography. In so far as an older house is concerned, you can learn what problems may have developed over the years. The property might have defects in its structure, foundation, roofing, electrical system, etc. And in that case, you can ask the owner to fix them, or you can negotiate a cheaper rate. If the inspection reveals deeper problems that can trouble you in the future, it’s better to walk away from the deal. For a newly constructed home, an infrared thermography inspection can tell you its build quality and compliance with safety norms. You see, a property can be attractive and aesthetically pleasing on the outside, but you never know what’s lurking inside. It is possible that the house or building has shoddy construction with poor quality building materials. So a thermography inspection is the best way you can double check on quality and safety before buying a home. And here’s the icing on the cake: Insurance companies are most likely to charge a lower monthly premium for your home showing positive results in the inspection report. Awesome, isn’t it? #2. When selling your home Many counties and municipalities require you, by law, to get a complete home inspection before you sell your home. In fact, you even need to show the inspection report to your prospective buyers without hiding any facts or findings. So with an infrared thermography inspection, you can fulfill this legal requirement more easily and efficiently. Also, since infrared inspections are the gold standard of home assessments, the inspection report will generate more interest in your property among home buyers. And in case the inspection flags certain concerns, you’ll have enough time to address them before the buyers find out. There’s more to the story. Even if your local laws don’t necessitate an inspection, it’s better to get a thermography inspection and attach the report with your listing. That’s
40 Year Structural Inspection: Here’s How Miami-Dade Is Changing The Program
Did you know that Miami-Dade county is all set to change the 40 year structural inspection program? Back in February, commissioners at the county voted unanimously in favor of an ordinance that will change building inspection laws. And this was in response to the deadly Champlain Towers Surfside condominium collapse in which ninety-eight people lost their lives. You see, ever since the Surfside tragedy, there have been strong demands from all quarters to strengthen building safety laws. Now, you may think, why exactly do we need strong laws? After all, the legal requirement for a 40 year recertification is already there for building owners in both Miami-Dade and Broward counties. But you’ll be surprised to know that the Surfside condo building collapsed while undergoing a 40 year structural inspection. That means even though 40 year inspection has been an effective safety tool thus far, it can’t ensure full-proof building integrity. You might have heard about the recent changes to milestone structural inspections across Florida. In fact, these changes to structure inspections are being called a bold first step towards larger structural safety. And exactly like the new pan-Florida structural engineer inspection rules, Miami-Dade county hopes to enhance occupant safety with a slew of changes to building recertification rules. If you’re curious as to what these changes are and how you’ll be affected by them, we’ve explained them all. So let’s have a look. #1. What are the proposed changes to 40 year structural inspection? The changes that Miami-Dade has proposed to the county’s 40 year structural inspection scheme will fundamentally change the program. And as a property owner, you’re now responsible for following the new building inspection and certification regulations. Here’s what the new building inspection scheme is all about. A 30 year recertification instead of the present 40 year law: The new county laws bring about the most drastic change to date to the 40 year recertification rule. So as the owner, you’ll now need to get a comprehensive inspection and recertification before the completion of your building’s 30 years. And that will be followed by a similar certification exercise every ten years after the initial 30 year recertification. You might wonder if there are any exemptions in the present scheme. Just like the 40 year structural inspection and recertification program, the county does allow for exemptions from the new scheme. For instance, if you own 2000 square feet or a smaller family home with ten or fewer occupants, you don’t need to recertify your home. Also, if your building was built between 1983-1986, and your 40 year recertification deadline is due before 31st March 2024, you’ll be exempt from the 30 year rule. However, you need to submit the 40 year inspection report to the county right on time. Now, the buildings that are not exempted from the scheme are those built between 1983-1992 and have their 30 year recertification timeline before 31st March 2024. In fact, the county is not even responsible for sending such buildings a courtesy inspection notification. So, if your home or building falls in this category, you should proactively get your inspection and fulfill recertification requirements. Two-year advance notice before the 30/40 year structural inspection: Miami-Dade county has added a new provision to the building inspection and recertification scheme, which is an advance notification. How does this work, you may ask? The county will send you a courtesy notification two years before the 30 year and the subsequent 40 year structural inspection deadline. And this is the most welcome of all the proposed changes to the program; you shall see how. You see, a basic problem with the 40 year recertification scheme is that building owners miss the inspection timeline. More so, since many building owners are second, third, and even fourth buyers of the property. And because the county laws have penal provisions for missing the recertification deadline, you may incur financial losses, among others. With advance notification, you will have prior knowledge of your 30/40 year structural inspection timeline. Further, you can even prepare your building for recertification much in advance by conducting a house structural inspection. As such, you’ll have enough time to carry out necessary fixes like concrete repair, concrete restoration, concrete waterproofing, etc. In fact, the best thing here is that you don’t have to wait till the 30th, 40th, or 50th year for the inspections, as you can conduct them even two years before the deadline. That’s amazing for sure, isn’t it? #2. What does the new 30/40 year structural inspection include? Back in November 2021, the Board of Rules and Appeals in Miami-Dade approved changes that will change how a 30/40 year structural inspection is conducted. If you’re wondering how a structural or home foundation inspection will be carried out from now on, they’ll include the following: If your electrical systems operate at 400 amps or more, an infrared thermography inspection shall be mandatory. Also, the inspection should be carried out by a Level 2 certified infrared thermographer. That’s because Level 2 thermographers have years of inspection experience and are qualified to detect and note problems in your electrical components. The proposed rules also introduce a new category of facade assessment. Herein the structural building inspector will assess the entire exterior facade of your building. The idea behind this is to ensure that any additional component attached to your home shouldn’t loosen or fall apart. Do you have structural glazing of the curtain wall systems in your building? If yes, the new county laws require you to conduct an inspection every six months in the first year of installation. Thereafter, you’ll need inspections at least every five years for your curtain walls with structural glazing. The 30/40 year structural inspection will include an assessment of building facade accessories on your exterior walls. These can be anywhere from air conditioning equipment to railings to protruding stairs. A thorough examination of these mechanically attached structures and components is necessary to ensure they won’t fall apart and cause
Florida Milestone Inspection Law: All That You Need To Know About The New Changes
You may have heard about the new Florida milestone inspection law,, and you’re sure to wonder how it might affect your building. To begin with, the structure inspections rules for condominiums and commercial buildings are changing across Florida, and for good. You see, the new scheme has changed the methods and timeline for structural inspection in these properties, enhancing occupants’ safety. We have all witnessed the tragic Surfside condo collapse and favored stronger structural safety laws. And exactly a year after the tragedy, the Florida Legislature passed what is called Senate Bill 4D. And here’s the catch. Since Governor Ron DeSantis has already signed the bill, the new Florida milestone inspection law, it is in force. So, if you’re a residential/commercial building owner or a member of condominium/cooperative associations, these laws do apply to you. The new rules for a structural engineer inspection can create doubts and lead to questions in your mind. That’s precisely why we have explained in detail each of the changes to milestone inspections so that you can prepare your building well in advance. So let’s have a look at them. #1. What is the Florida milestone inspection law? A milestone structural inspection is required for every residential and commercial building in Florida that is three stories or higher. If you own any such structure or are a member of the building association, you’re legally required to conduct timely inspections. And for that purpose, the laws need you to hire a structural engineer licensed in the state of Florida. The engineer/s will visually assess all areas of your building and analyze its structural components for safety. And once the inspection is complete, they’ll provide you with a structural assessment report detailing their findings, opinions, and recommendations. It is possible that your building has structural problems, which will be detailed in the report, along with ways you can fix them. In fact, the structural building inspector can even refer construction contractors to carry out the impending repairs on your property. There you have it, Florida milestone inspection law simplified. #2. What exactly are the new changes to milestone inspections? Just as the proposed changes to 40 year structural recertification, the new milestone inspection rules change the timeline of your building’s structural evaluation. Here are the new milestone inspection Florida timelines for various buildings in the state: For all buildings three stories or higher You should get a milestone inspection when your multistoried building with three or more floors turns 30 years old. By what time should the inspection be completed, you may ask? As per the new laws, it is mandatory that your building/house structural inspection is completed by December 31st of your property’s 30th year. Further, you’ll need to conduct a structural engineer inspection every ten years after the initial 30th year inspection. That means if you get a milestone inspection in 2025, you’re required to get another inspection in 2035, followed by one in 2045, and so on. Florida milestone inspection law for buildings near the coastline If your building or condominium is near the sea shore, the milestone structural inspection rules are slightly different for you. So what’s the difference in the inspection scheme? The rules say that if your structure is built within three miles of the coastline, the initial milestone inspection shall be conducted when the building turns 25. Meaning, you’re required to get a structural inspection by December 31st of the 25th year instead of 30th year. However, the ten-year Florida milestone inspection law is the same for you as the non-coastal buildings. So you’ve got to get similar building structure inspections done in the 35th, 45th, 55th year, and so forth. But why exactly is the rule different for coastal buildings? You see, the structures along the seashore are exposed to an intense coastal climate and are prone to damage. In fact, as hurricanes become more frequent and intense, it’s the coastal buildings that take the toll. So it is necessary to ensure that these buildings have a sound structure and that they are safe for inhabitants. For buildings with occupancy certificates dating July 1st, 1992, or before If the certificate of occupancy for your building was issued on July 1st, 1992, or before that, you’ve till December 31st, 2024, to get milestone structural inspections. It is the date on which the certificate of occupancy was issued that determines the exact age of your building. And if the occupancy certificate is unavailable, the date of occupancy in any local official record will decide your building’s age. #3. How does the Florida milestone inspection law work? The local enforcement agency will send you a notice of inspection as the structural inspection timeline for your building nears. And as a building owner or condominium/cooperative association member, you should ensure at least the first phase of the two-phased structural inspection is completed within 180 days of receiving the notice. And if you’re wondering what the two-phase inspection is all about, here’s what it includes: Phase one of the milestone inspection The first phase is all about a visual inspection of your property by the structural engineer. Herein, the inspector assesses both the habitable and uninhabitable areas of your building. The very purpose of the first phase in Florida milestone inspection law is to examine the qualitative aspect of the structure. So the engineer tries to find whether or not the structure is sound and safe for the building occupants. Read: Threshold Building Inspection Guide: Here’s What You Need to Know Phase two of the milestone inspection The second phase of a structural engineer inspection will only be conducted if the inspector/s finds signs of major damage during phase one. Also, the phase two inspection can even involve destructive testing, meaning the inspectors may tear down part of the structure. They do so to have a complete understanding of the extent to which your building’s structure is damaged. However, you can rest easy as the wear and tear is the least disruptive and can be easily repaired. #4. What
What is a Structural Engineer Inspection?
A structural inspection by a licensed engineer is something you should definitely go for in your home. Why you may ask? You see, a home with structural damages can pose a serious threat to the very safety of the inhabitants. From wall cracks to a sloppy floor to saggy roofing, structural issues can arise just about anywhere in your home. And a problematic structure can make your building vulnerable to water damage, mold, pests, and even structural collapse. You surely wouldn’t want to stay in a home with such risks. Would you? But knowing the exact extent of structural problems in a property is difficult since they’re mostly hidden. So, even as a building may look in good shape, you never know what problems are lurking in its structure. Also, no matter whether your home is newly constructed or an old one nearing the 40 year building recertification deadline, structure inspections are something you shouldn’t ignore. That’s because, apart from older residential structures, problems can even be caused by faulty or unprofessional construction in new homes. While you can hire a regular home inspector to provide you with professional insights into your home’s current conditions, a structural inspection will go way beyond that. In case you’re wondering, a structural engineer inspection involves a detailed analysis of your home’s structure. So you get to know not just the present state of the structure but also the repair and restoration requirements. If you’re looking to conduct the initial structure inspections for your home, you’re sure to have a lot of questions. And that’s precisely why we have compiled together a comprehensive guide to structural building inspections, so let’s dive in. #1. What exactly is a structural engineer inspection? A structural engineer inspection is performed to know whether or not your home has a damaged structure. Structure inspections for any building are done by structural engineers licensed in their state of practice. For instance, to inspect your Miami home, the structural building inspector or engineer should have an inspection license for Florida. The structural engineer/s will look at your home’s foundation, walls, beams, roof, crawl space, etc., to begin with. They do so to find any potential signals of risk or damage to your home’s structural integrity. If the structural engineer suspects an underlying problem, an in-depth assessment will be conducted to find its exact nature. And it is only after a thorough evaluation of your home that the structural building inspector will document a report. The objective structural engineer inspection is two-fold: First, the inspection tries to find if your building has been designed and built properly to safely withstand its loads. Second, the structure is analyzed to see whether its integrity is maintained and that it’ll stand safe for decades. Once the structure inspections are complete, the engineer/s will share the findings about the condition of your building. Also, they’ll share their expert opinion on the best way you can maintain and upkeep your home’s structure. #2. Is the structural inspection report important? It is indeed essential that you obtain a post-inspection report from the structural engineer upon completion of the inspection process. You see, the inspection report contains every detail of your home’s structure, including the damages it has induced over time and possible construction defects. And since building inspectors document their opinions on structural refurbishment needs and best practices, you can easily do the fixes. In fact, your engineer can even help you hire a qualified firm to carry out the necessary repairs. There’s more to a post-inspection report. A structural inspection report will come in handy when you’re selling your home or buying one. How? Many state laws legally require sellers to disclose the current state of the building and its structure. And the only way you can learn about your home’s conditions and possible defects is through a structural inspection report. So it’s good to hire an engineer and get a house structural inspection before listing your home for sale. That way, you’ll have enough time to fix potential problems and even have the upper hand in price negotiations since you can assure prospective buyers of structural safety. The same applies when you’re buying a home, as you can renegotiate the deal based on any structural problems documented in the report. As you can see, we can’t overstate the importance of a structural inspection report. #3. When should you go for a structural engineer inspection? Are you wondering when a complete home structural engineer inspection is needed? Here are a few signs that you should be on the lookout for: Cracks in your home foundation, floors, and walls If you notice cracks in the home foundation or on the wall surfaces, floors, door openings, etc., it’s definitely not a good sign. Multiple horizontal or vertical cracks on the exteriors and interiors of your home can be an indication of a shifting home foundation. And that can be too risky for your safety as the building’s structure can even crumble and collapse. The only way you can get to understand the extent of the problem and possible remedy is through a structural inspection. Further, if you think that the problem is foundational in nature, maybe it is time for a home foundation inspection. Uneven, sloping, or warped flooring Do you notice an uneven shape of your floors lately? If yes, that can be a sign of some structural damage beneath your feet. That’s because homes are built either on a raised foundation or a slab, and if the floor cracks or becomes sloppy, it means there’ve been some structural shifts. So it’s better to get structure inspections in such instances and fix the issue timely to prevent bigger problems. Some other conditions that require structural engineer inspection: Increasing gaps between the walls and the flooring Cracking or leaning of the roof or the chimney Drainage or standing water problems in the building Doors and windows not closing or opening #4. How much does a structural engineer inspection
Get An Infrared Thermography Inspection To Save Up to $11,000 In Repairs: Here’s How
Infrared thermal imaging is a complete game-changer when it comes to home improvement and building maintenance. Imagine a completely non-destructive, non-invasive way to take a closer look at your home and ensure that whatever needs fixing is fixed at the right time. Getting an Infrared thermography inspection done on your home or the house you plan to buy is common sense. Because small things that need fixing tend to become big things that are hazardous when neglected for a long time. What Is Hiding In The Walls Of Your Home? Maintaining any home requires a lot of TLC, not to mention regular inspections beyond what we see on the surface. Thankfully, thermal imaging technology allows us to see much more than we would with just our naked eye. However, knowing exactly what to look for can save precious time and serve as preventative measures, keeping problems from even happening; problems such as pests hiding in walls, air leaks causing drafts, electric systems overheating, etc. You can combine infrared thermography with your home foundation inspection and structure inspections, as that will make for full-fledged inspection of your home. Also, you can plan on concrete repair, spalling repair, concrete waterproofing, etc., after you’ve a detailed picture of your building’s requirements. New Buyers Beware! Buying a house is one of the most significant investments the average American makes. Inspecting the house before you make that decision is a crucial step in the evaluation process (that we highly recommend). Visualizing and pinpointing pre-existing or potential problems during an inspection can help you determine whether to proceed with a purchase. And this does not just apply to residential structures exclusively. For example, if you are planning to buy any pre-built building, conducting a completely non-invasive inspection on the said building to determine whether there are any issues below the surface is the logical thing to do. The Temperature Check That Matters An infrared thermography inspection can help spot small but critical changes in temperature in different areas of a house, identifying problem areas that a visual inspection cannot always ascertain. For example, a house will show up as hot, cold, or somewhere in between as it is scanned with a camera sensitive to infrared radiation, and an expert will be able to tell you the underlying problem causing this fluctuation in temperature. What Will Infrared Thermography Inspection Find? Moisture is a big issue revealed during these inspections, including hidden mold sources, roof leaks, and posts that indicate termite nests. The inspector can also discover electrical problems, heat and energy loss, foundation cracks, structural concerns, missing insulation, ventilation glitches, and rodent infestations. Let’s go through some typical issues we find with an infrared thermography inspection, which can save you a bundle of money. What’s Wrong With Your Roof? Water typically gives up its heat at a slower rate than its surrounding roofing materials because it retains heat and has a high thermal capacity, which allows us to see with just one image if any areas have accumulated moisture. This procedure is usually most suited for the evening when the temperature outside begins to fall. The material on the roof will have released its heat, showing up blue or purple on the image, while the moisturized materials will still be warm and will show up red or orange in the IR thermal imaging. A bad leak in winter shows up blue as the cold infiltrates the warm house. Detect Electrical Hazards Before They Cost You! Accurately identifying and fixing electrical problems will add massive value to a home while preventing both injury and property damage. The image will have yellow marks wherever there is damage to electrical systems, making it easy to spot and put on the list of repairs. A thermal inspection of the breaker box, outlets, electronic appliances, thermostat, and any other electric systems in your house can help identify loose power connections. Such issues can cause circuits to generate much more heat than they usually would, making them easily identifiable with thermal. Connections contracting and expanding because of temperature fluctuations and external vibrations from heavy machinery operating nearby are possible reasons for loose electrical connections. You may also want to schedule a thermal inspection if you notice discoloration around the electric system or any abnormal odors that could be burning material. Is Your House Built Right? When your inspector scans walls, floors, and ceilings with an infrared thermography camera, they notice differences in temperature and conductivity, which tell us about hidden missing structural components and damaged portions of these components. Detect Those Pests! An infrared thermography inspection is one of the least destructive ways you can conduct a pest inspection. While you shouldn’t expect to see them actively running around, things like rodent nests often generate enough heat over time that they start to warm up the outer wall. We can use two more identifiers: missing insulation and wall holes that indicate entry points. Rodents often move insulation around to make room for themselves, creating cold spots in a home. But it’s not just rats; animals such as snakes, bats, squirrels, raccoons, opossums, etc., have a tendency to take up residence inside walls, attics, and crawl spaces. A well-timed inspection can help you avoid the hassle of what happens when your house, unbeknownst to you, turns into an animal sanctuary. Is There A Draft In Your Home? Before conducting an inspection to detect that air leak that has been bothering you, you should know something important: There should be at least an 18°F difference between inside and outside temperatures. To make this easier, we recommend starting the inspection in the morning before the sun warms up the house. Once you’ve ensured the temperature difference, you can start looking around some common problem areas. Windows, doors, ducts, and exterior outlets are all great starting points. Patchy or badly installed insulation is also a common culprit of air leaks. Areas you’ll want to be checked out
Have Deteriorating Concrete On Your Hands? Here’s A Quick Concrete Restoration Guide
Nothing lasts forever, and this statement couldn’t be more apt for concrete structures in the sunshine state. So many options are available to you on the solution front. Concrete restoration is just one of them. This blog covers all the basics- what concrete restoration is, why it might be the best option for you, inspections, engineers, contractors, contracts, warranties, etc. Concrete Restoration & How It Differs From Concrete Repair Concrete restoration is repairing old and damaged concrete with a specific focus on aesthetics. Restoring concrete returns it to its original appearance (this process is also used on sidewalks and driveways). However, there’s a slight difference between concrete repair and concrete restoration. While repairing damaged concrete can fix any structural issues with the concrete, it doesn’t benefit the aesthetics in any way. With concrete restoration, you’re getting both benefits. Why Choose Concrete Restoration Instead Of Re-Building From Scratch? One of the main advantages of concrete restoration is that it’s less expensive than new construction. Despite this, concrete restoration still gives you the appearance of brand-new concrete on your building. It also improves the overall look and repairs the structural problems’ cracks. Fortunately, due to the cheaper cost, it’s easier for businesses to stay on top of concrete repairs when they choose to do restorations. Timely concrete restoration can prevent problems from getting out of hand and prevent businesses from putting their customers and employees at risk. Why Are Concrete Restoration Contractors Such A Necessity In Florida? When moisture gets in the concrete, it causes the rebar to rust. The more rebar rusts, the more it expands (almost up to seven times its original thickness), exerting a force (more than 10,000 psi) that causes large cracks and spalling concrete. Seemingly minor problems on a building’s surface can indicate much more severe problems beneath the surface that can only be determined by an experienced and qualified structural engineer. The Perils Of Owning Property In Our Beloved Swamp State Concrete restoration is a fact of life if you own a building. This is especially true if you own a building in Florida. The “salty air” is the main reason for this concrete failure. To rephrase it, the chlorides in the air make their way into the concrete. This causes the rebar inside the concrete to rust and start to expand. As a result, the concrete ruptures and cracks. This crack is called a “spall.” These spalls can lead to a collapse. For this reason, Cities and Counties in South Florida take these matters very seriously. Why Do You Need Regular Structural Inspections? We get it, inspections are a hassle, and more often than not, they are the preview of an upcoming expense. Yet, we still recommend that owners and custodians hire a structural engineer to perform an inspection of their buildings every few years. However, some signs of concrete deterioration can be found by doing a simple visual inspection conducted by maintenance personnel, managers, or custodians. here are some common occurrences to keep your eyes peeled for: Concrete spalls—the deterioration of concrete Lifting tile—tile that is raised because of deteriorated concrete Rusting spots Note- If you have found that a restoration project is necessary, it would also be the time to consider doing other related work, such as upgrading sliding glass doors and shutters, replacing railings, and repainting the entire building. The Importance Of Choosing The Right Concrete Restoration Contractor A restoration project is typically a straightforward process. Difficulties only arise when there is a lack of a knowledgeable team, with inadequate planning, partial information, lack of communication, and subpar worksite preparation. Thankfully, some procedures can help ensure proper repairs while minimizing unexpected problems. The first requirement for a successful restoration project is communication, ensuring the project manager and owners understand the importance of these repairs. When the owner is in doubt about whether the work is necessary to preserve the integrity and safety of the structure, the project will most likely experience interference from said owners. Such issues will just result in increased costs and delays in completing the work. And the solution is as simple as possible. It all boils to finding the right concrete restoration companies and then choosing the best among them. Things To Keep In Mind While Selecting Your Restoration Team Once you’re sure that the concrete repairs are necessary, selecting the right team for a successful concrete restoration project is crucial. And the first member of the team has to be you. Nobody can have a more significant stake in the restoration project’s success than the structure’s owner. The Engineer & The Contractor The next most important team member to select is a competent and experienced structural engineer who can also serve as a threshold inspector. Choosing a structural engineer begins by interviewing several engineering firms in the area with a record of successful concrete restoration projects. After that, you want to select a contractor that will work willingly and collaborate openly and transparently with you and the engineer. Good teamwork is essential here, which is why we recommend a one-stop shop firm that provides the entire team rather than venturing out in the wild and trying to put together your own ‘A Team.’ The Questions To Ask Before You Consider Hiring A Concrete Restoration Contractor Finding the right concrete restoration contractor isn’t as simple as googling “concrete restoration near me .” Well, it could be, but we recommend a little more elbow grease. So we compiled a questionnaire for which you should have the answers before you sign any proposals or accept any bids. What is the history of the company? Who are the named owners of the company? Do they hold the State of Florida Certified General Contractor’s license? What will be the size of the workforce? Will they provide a detailed list of equipment that the team will use? Do they have proper insurance coverage (general liability and workers’ compensation insurance)? Do they provide a warranty
Everything You Need To Know About 40-Year recertification
As a building owner in Broward or Miami-Dade counties, you may have a lot of questions about 40-year recertification. And you might even be worried about the 40-year inspection program, especially as your building’s 40th anniversary approaches. You see, your building can be a sturdy one made from the highest quality construction materials, but over time it will decay. It is especially true for buildings here in Florida that face an intense coastal climate which takes a toll on their very structure. So it is necessary that your building undergoes a thorough inspection and you get foundational or mechanical issues fixed. We’ve all witnessed the devastating surfside condo collapse, among others, and we want to avert such tragedies in the future. That’s precisely why a 40-year inspection is critical to ensure that our buildings are safe for all. Even though 40-year recertification may sound complicated and troublesome, it’s actually a fairly simple process involving basic to-dos. In fact, we answered all your questions regarding 40-year building inspection so that you can get through the certification process easily. So let’s have a look at them. #1. What exactly is 40-year recertification? If you own a building in either Miami-Dade or Broward county, you need to get your building inspected by a licensed engineer as per the local laws. And you need to do this once your building nears the 40-year mark; the reason why it is called 40-year recertification. The engineer you hire will conduct a detailed structural building inspection, including the home foundation, and evaluate if it’s safe. If there are any safety issues with your building, like integral vulnerabilities or structural failure, the engineer will document them. And thereafter, you will get an inspection report with the details of problems that you need to get fixed in a timely way. The very purpose of a 40-year inspection is to ensure that your building’s aging does not pose a safety threat to its occupants. For this reason, engineers develop an in-depth understanding of your building’s maintenance requirements and recommend you accordingly. What is 50-year recertification? You may have come across the term 50-year recertification, and you might wonder what exactly that means. To put it simply, once you’ve got your building inspected and recertified after its 40th year, you need to do the same every ten years. That means you’ve got to get your building certified in its 50th year, 60th year, and so on. So 50-year recertification follows a similar building inspection and certification process as in the 40th year. #2. What is included in a 40-year inspection? When you hire experts like licensed engineers or architects, they will carry out a detailed survey of each section of your building. And it’s not just the structural or home foundation inspection that we’re talking about, as it includes your electrical wirings, lighting, etc. You see, the idea is to make sure that every aspect of your building is safe and nothing is left to chance. So the main aspects of your building that the engineer inspects include the following: Home foundation Exterior and interior walls The steel frame of your building Electrical wiring Roofing system Lighting, including that for emergency Windows Wood frames for their sturdiness There are other safety elements too that the engineer will look into and make recommendations on. #3. How does 40-year recertification work? When your building turns forty years old, county or city code compliance officials will send you a ‘Notice of Required Inspection.’ The recertification dates you get will depend on your Structure’s Certificate of Occupancy or the anniversary of your original building. The county laws have specified a period of 90 days from the date you get an inspection notice, within which you should get your property inspected. And it is the inspection report that your engineer or architect puts together which decides if your building will be recertified for another ten years. Also Read: A Complete Guide To 40 Year Recertification For Condo Buildings (Miami-Dade and Broward) What if the engineer flags safety concerns in the inspection report? It is possible that your engineer may find certain safety issues in your building, like a concrete crack, leaky waterproofing system, or outdated wiring. After all, your building is forty years old, so it’s likely to have maintenance or renovation requirements. That’s why engineers detail the improvements needed for your property in their report. And the county laws allow you another 180 days to carry out the improvements as suggested by the inspection report. Once you’ve carried out the required maintenance, including structural repairs, concrete waterproofing, replacing faulty structures, etc., the building is all set to be recertified. So the engineer will visit again and prepare another report stating if you’ve addressed previously flagged concerns. What if you don’t comply with the recertification timeline? You see, as the property owner, it is your responsibility to comply with the recertification timeline. If you don’t get your building inspected and recertified timely, it can result in a Civil Violation Notice. And that will make you liable for a penalty of up to $10,510, along with the enforcement costs that the county incurs. And to make matters worse, recertification failure can lead to a complete evacuation of your building and, ultimately, its demolition. You don’t want to face any of these penalties or legal challenges. Do you? That’s why maintaining your property as per county laws and getting your 40-year recertification on time is something you shouldn’t ignore. What to do if you don’t get an inspection notice from the county? It may happen that you don’t receive a ‘Notice of Required Inspection’ from the county once your building turns forty. However, you should still get your property inspected by a licensed engineer, comply with the inspection report, and get your recertification on time. That’s because even if you don’t get a notice, you can still face penalties for recertification failure. Also, you’ll be held liable for accidents or any other incident that might occur in