Author: Eastern

Electricity is an essential element that powers almost everything in our daily lives. From lighting our homes to operating large industrial machines, electricity plays a vital role in our lives. However, electricity can also be dangerous if not handled properly. Electrical hazards can cause severe injuries, property damage, and even death. Therefore, it is important to ensure that electrical systems are maintained and inspected regularly to prevent potential hazards.

Purpose of inspection of electrical elements

The purpose of inspecting electrical elements is to ensure the safety and reliability of electrical systems. Regular inspections help identify potential hazards, prevent electrical failures, and ensure that electrical systems are compliant with safety regulations. An inspection can help detect worn-out equipment, damaged components, loose connections, and other issues that can lead to electrical hazards.

Inspections can also identify potential energy-saving opportunities, allowing building owners and facility managers to reduce energy consumption and costs. By identifying and addressing issues early on, electrical inspections can help prevent costly downtime, improve equipment efficiency, and extend the life of electrical systems. Regular electrical inspections are essential for maintaining a safe and efficient workplace. They can help prevent accidents and ensure that electrical systems are operating at their maximum potential.

Electrical service equipment

Electrical service equipment is the first point of contact for electrical power entering a building or facility. It includes components such as main switchboards, panelboards, transformers, and other equipment that provide power to the building’s electrical systems.

Regular inspections of electrical service equipment are essential to ensure that they are functioning correctly and safely. Inspections can identify issues such as loose connections, damaged components, or outdated equipment that may pose a potential hazard. Additionally, inspections can ensure that equipment is operating efficiently and not wasting energy. The inspection process should include visual inspections, tests of equipment, and evaluations of electrical systems to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Branch Circuits

Branch circuits are the parts of the electrical system that distribute power to specific areas or devices within a building or facility. They include outlets, switches, and other devices that draw power from the main electrical service equipment.

Wiring

Wiring is the system of electrical conductors that transmit power and signals within a building or facility. Wiring includes cables, conduits, raceways, and other components that connect electrical devices and systems.

Conduits

Conduits are protective tubes used to enclose and protect electrical wiring. They are often made of metal or plastic and can be installed either above or below ground.

Emergency Lighting

Emergency lighting is a critical safety feature that provides illumination during power outages or emergency situations. Emergency lighting includes exit signs, pathway lighting, and other types of lighting designed to illuminate escape routes and emergency exits.

Exit Signs

Exit signs are critical safety features that provide clear and visible indications of emergency exit routes. Exit signs are required in all buildings and facilities to ensure that occupants can safely evacuate in the event of an emergency.

Fire Alarm System

A fire alarm system is a critical safety feature that alerts occupants of a building or facility in the event of a fire. Fire alarm systems include smoke detectors, heat detectors, and other sensors designed to detect the presence of a fire and alert occupants to evacuate.

Infrared Thermography Inspection

Infrared thermography inspection is a non-destructive testing method that uses thermal imaging cameras to detect hot spots and anomalies in electrical systems. The inspection process involves capturing images of electrical components to identify areas of high resistance, loose connections, or other issues that can lead to electrical hazards.

This type of inspection can be performed on a variety of electrical systems, including switchgear, transformers, motors, and electrical panels. The inspection can detect problems that may not be visible to the naked eye and can identify issues before they become more significant problems. If any issues are found, repairs or maintenance can be performed to address the problem right away. Regular infrared thermography inspections are essential to maintaining a safe and reliable electrical system.

Electrical Elements Inspections. General Requirements

Electrical elements inspections should be performed regularly to ensure that electrical systems are functioning correctly and safely. The frequency of inspections may vary depending on the type of electrical system and its intended use. However, it is generally recommended that inspections be performed at least once a year or more frequently if the system is subject to heavy use or harsh operating conditions. Some of these inspections requirements include:

● Visual inspections of electrical components to identify any signs of damage or wear and
tear.

● Testing of electrical systems to ensure that they are functioning correctly and safely.

● Evaluations of electrical systems to ensure compliance with safety regulations and
industry standards.

● Identification and correction of any issues found during the inspection process.

● Documentation of inspection findings and corrective actions taken.

Electrical System Requirements

Some of the key requirements for electrical systems include:

● Proper grounding of the electrical system to prevent electric shocks and other hazards.

● Correct sizing of electrical components to ensure that they can handle the load they are
carrying.

● Proper placement and installation of electrical components to prevent damage and
ensure safe operation.

● Compliance with local, state, and federal electrical codes and regulations.

● Adequate ventilation to prevent overheating and other hazards.

● Use of appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, when working on
electrical systems.

Emergency Lighting Requirement

Some of the key requirements for emergency lighting include:

● Proper placement of emergency lighting fixtures to ensure that they adequately
illuminate exit routes and other critical areas.

● Backup power sources to ensure that emergency lighting continues to function during a
power outage.

● Compliance with local, state, and federal safety codes and regulations.

● Regular testing and maintenance of emergency lighting systems to ensure that they are
functioning correctly and safely.

Fire Alarm System Requirement

Some of the key requirements for fire alarm systems include:

● Proper placement of fire alarm devices to ensure that they adequately detect and alert
occupants of a building in the event of a fire.

● Backup power sources to ensure that fire alarm systems continue to function during a
power outage.

● Compliance with local, state, and federal safety codes and regulations.

● Regular testing and maintenance of fire alarm systems to ensure that they are
functioning correctly and safely.

Electrical Elements Inspection Timeline

The frequency of electrical element inspections can vary depending on the type of equipment, its location, and its intended use. However, it is generally recommended that electrical elements are inspected at least once a year, with more frequent inspections for critical equipment. The inspection may include a visual examination of the equipment, as well as functional testing to ensure that the equipment is operating correctly.

Inspections typically take several hours to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the electrical system. If any issues or hazards are identified during the inspection, the electrical contractor will make recommendations for repairs or upgrades to ensure that the equipment is functioning correctly and safely.

Electrical Elements Inspection Cost

The cost of an electrical elements inspection can vary depending on the size and complexity of the electrical system, as well as the location and accessibility of the equipment. Other factors that may affect the cost include the type of equipment being inspected, the frequency of inspections, and any necessary repairs or upgrades.

Typically, the cost of an inspection ranges from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. However, the cost of an inspection is a small price to pay compared to the potential cost of electrical hazards, such as property damage or injury to occupants.

Electrical Elements Inspection Implementation

To implement an electrical elements inspection program, building owners and facility managers should take the following steps:

1. Identify all electrical equipment and systems that require inspection.
2. Determine the frequency of inspections for each piece of equipment or system.
3. Hire a licensed electrical contractor to perform inspections and make any necessary repairs or upgrades.
4. Develop a schedule for inspections and communicate it to all relevant parties.
5. Maintain a detailed record of inspections, repairs, and upgrades.
6. Review inspection results regularly and make any necessary changes to the inspection program.

In conclusion, regular electrical elements inspections are essential for ensuring the safety and compliance of electrical systems, preventing hazards, and reducing downtime and costs associated with repairs and upgrades. Here at Eastern Engineering Group, as part of our Building Recertification service, we perform electrical elements inspections, as well as infrared thermography inspection.

Don’t hesitate to contact us! We are here to help!

In the wake of recent building collapses in the Miami and Broward County areas, local officials have implemented changes to the 40-year building recertification requirement. This article will provide an overview of the changes, the reasons behind them, the new recertification schedule, and the implications for building owners.

Background on the 40-year recertification requirement

The 40-year building recertification requirement was established to ensure that buildings in Miami and Broward County are safe and structurally sound. The requirement mandates that buildings over 40 years old must undergo a recertification process to ensure that they are still up to code and meet safety standards.

The previous 40-year recertification requirement mandated only a one-time inspection, which was seen as inadequate in ensuring the ongoing safety of buildings in the area. The inspections were not frequent enough to catch any potential issues that may arise between inspections. Additionally, the inspections did not require any ongoing maintenance or repairs, which left the buildings vulnerable to potential structural issues.

Overview of the changes in Miami and Broward County

Miami and Broward County officials have implemented changes to the 40-year building recertification requirement. The changes were designed to increase building safety and address concerns about the adequacy of the previous recertification requirement.

The new requirement mandates that buildings over 30 years old must undergo inspections every 10 years thereafter, instead of starting at the 40-year mark. Buildings that are 3 stories or more in height within 3 miles of the coastline, must be recertified once they hit the 25 year mark. The inspections must be performed by licensed engineers or architects and must include a review of the building’s structural components, electrical systems, plumbing, and other key areas.

Reasons for the changes

The changes to the building recertification program were prompted by a number of factors. First, the increase in building collapses in the Miami and Broward County areas raised concerns about the safety of older buildings. In June 2021, the Champlain Towers South building in Surfside, Florida, collapsed, resulting in the loss of 98 lives. This tragedy highlighted the need for more frequent inspections and maintenance of older buildings to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.

Second, the previous 40-year recertification requirement was seen as inadequate in ensuring the ongoing safety of buildings in the area. The new requirement mandates inspections every 10 years, which ensures that any potential issues are caught and addressed before they become major problems, in addition to the first inspections now being required at 30 years.

Finally, there was a need for more frequent inspections and maintenance to ensure the ongoing safety of buildings in the area. The new requirements provide building owners with a more comprehensive and ongoing approach to building safety.

New Recertification Schedule

The new recertification schedule requires buildings to undergo inspections once the building turns 30 years if they are inland, and 25 years in they are 3 miles within the coastline. The same inspection is required every 10 years thereafter. The inspections must be performed by licensed engineers or architects and must include a review of the building’s structural components, electrical systems, plumbing, and other key areas.

The new requirements differ slightly between Miami and Broward County, with some variations in the scope of the inspections and the specific requirements for building owners. In Miami-Dade County, for example, buildings over 30 years old must have a Structural Safety Inspection (SSI) conducted by a licensed engineer or architect. The SSI includes a review of the building’s structural elements, such as columns, beams, and walls. In Broward County, buildings over 40 years old must undergo a Building Safety Inspection (BSI), which includes a review of the building’s structural, electrical, and plumbing. To be sure about the requirements in your area, check the local laws.

Implications for Building Owners

The new 40-year building recertification requirement has significant implications for building owners in Miami and Broward County. The additional inspections and ongoing maintenance requirements can result in increased costs for building owners. The costs associated with the new requirements can vary depending on the size and complexity of the building. It can also depend on the age and condition of the building. However, the costs of non-compliance can be much higher.

Building owners who fail to comply with the new requirements can face penalties and fines, which can add up quickly. In addition, building owners may be required to pay for any necessary repairs or improvements to bring the building up to code. Non-compliance with the new requirements can also result in unsafe conditions in the building, which can put occupants at risk. Buildings that are not up to code may have structural issues, such as weakened beams or columns, that could potentially cause the building to collapse. Also, outdated electrical or plumbing systems may pose fire or health hazards to occupants.

New Requirements, Greater Responsibility

The new requirements also create a greater responsibility for building owners to ensure that their buildings are up to code and meet safety standards. Building owners must ensure that they are working with licensed engineers or architects who are qualified to perform the required inspections and make any necessary repairs or improvements.

In conclusion, the changes to the 40-year building recertification requirement in Miami and Broward County were prompted by concerns about building safety in the wake of recent collapses in the area. The new requirements mandate more frequent inspections and ongoing maintenance, which can result in increased costs for building owners. However, the costs of non-compliance can be much higher. The new requirements create a greater responsibility for building owners to ensure the ongoing safety of their buildings and to work with qualified professionals to perform the required inspections and repairs. Ultimately, the changes are designed to improve building safety and protect occupants in Miami and Broward County.

Ensuring the safety of buildings in Florida is crucial, especially in the wake of natural disasters such as hurricanes. Structural integrity reserve studies play a critical role in ensuring building safety. These studies assess the current condition and future expected performance of a building’s structural systems, including its foundation, walls, roofs, and floors. By evaluating the structural integrity of a building, reserve studies help building owners and managers to identify any potential issues and make necessary repairs before they become more significant and costly.

Structural integrity reserve studies are essential to ensuring the long-term safety and stability of a building. By providing a comprehensive evaluation of the building’s structural systems, these studies help building owners and managers to identify potential hazards and make informed decisions about necessary repairs or upgrades. Additionally, reserve studies provide a detailed plan for maintaining the building’s structural integrity over time, including an estimate of future maintenance costs, which can help with budgeting and financial planning. By conducting regular reserve studies, building owners and managers can ensure the safety and well-being of their tenants and protect their investments.

Importance of Building Safety in Florida

Building safety is of the utmost importance in Florida, especially with its susceptibility to humidity and to natural disasters such as hurricanes. Ensuring that buildings are safe for occupants is a top priority for building owners and managers in the state. This involves conducting regular safety inspections to identify any potential hazards and make necessary repairs or upgrades. By maintaining a safe building, owners and managers can protect the well-being of their tenants and prevent liability issues in the event of accidents or incidents.

In addition to protecting occupants, building safety is also crucial for maintaining a building’s value and appeal. A safe building is more attractive to potential tenants and can increase its rental value, leading to higher profits for building owners. On the other hand, buildings that are in disrepair or deemed unsafe can have a negative impact on their surrounding community and lower property values. Regular safety inspections and repairs can help to maintain a building’s value and appeal, which is essential in the competitive real estate market in Florida.

Understanding Structural Integrity Reserve Studies in Florida

The Condominium Act in Florida, also known as Florida Statutes Chapter 718, is a set of laws that govern the ownership, operation, and management of condominiums in the state. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of condominium owners, boards of directors, and association members, as well as the regulations that govern the use and maintenance of common areas and amenities in a condominium complex. The structural integrity reserve study is a part of the condominium act in Florida.

What is a Structural Integrity Reserve Study in Florida?

A Structural Integrity Reserve Study is a comprehensive evaluation of a building’s structure and systems to determine their current condition and future needs. This study is particularly important in Florida, where buildings are exposed to severe weather conditions and natural hazards, and must be able to withstand these events to ensure the safety of the occupants and the protection of the building’s value.

The components of a Structural Integrity Reserve Study typically include a thorough inspection of the building’s structure, systems, and components, as well as an analysis of the building’s design and construction. The study will also include an assessment of the building’s potential exposure to natural hazards, such as hurricanes and earthquakes, and will identify any vulnerabilities or areas that need to be addressed. Additionally, the study will provide recommendations for maintaining and improving the building’s structural integrity, including any necessary repairs or upgrades, and will estimate the costs associated with these repairs over time.

What are the benefits of a Structural Integrity Reserve Study?

The benefits of a Structural Integrity Reserve Study include improved safety for the building’s occupants, reduced liability exposure for building owners, and enhanced building value and marketability. The study can also help building owners and managers to budget for future repairs and upgrades and to ensure that they are prepared for any unexpected events. Furthermore, compliance with the building recertification program can be achieved by having this study done regularly and ensuring that the building meets all safety and structural standards. Overall, a Structural Integrity Reserve Study is a crucial tool for maintaining and improving the safety, value, and marketability of buildings in Florida.

Legal Requirements and Timelines

In Florida, the legal requirements for conducting a Structural Integrity Reserve Study are established by state and local building codes and regulations. These requirements typically outline the scope and frequency of the study, and may also include specific standards for building design, construction, and maintenance. Building owners and managers must comply with these requirements in order to ensure that their buildings are safe and secure, and to avoid any potential legal liabilities in case of accidents or incidents.

The timelines for conducting a Structural Integrity Reserve Study in Florida may vary depending on the size and complexity of the building, as well as the type of hazard that it is exposed to. Typically, these studies are conducted on a regular basis, such as annually or biennially, to ensure that the building’s structural and systems are in good condition and to identify any potential issues before they become major problems. Building owners and managers must also comply with any timeline requirements established by the building codes and regulations, which may include specific deadlines for addressing any deficiencies or unsafe conditions identified by the study. Overall, it is important for building owners and managers to understand the legal requirements and timelines for conducting a Structural Integrity Reserve Study in Florida, in order to ensure compliance and to protect the safety and value of their building.

Consequences of a non-compliant structural integrity reserve study

Non-compliance with the legal requirements for conducting Structural Integrity Reserve Studies in Florida can have significant consequences for building owners and managers. For example, failure to conduct these studies as required by law may result in penalties, fines, or other legal actions. Additionally, non-compliance may also increase the risk of liability in case of accidents or incidents, as the building owner or manager may be held responsible for any structural or safety issues that are not identified and addressed in a timely manner.

Moreover, non-compliance with Structural Integrity Reserve Studies can also have a negative impact on the value and marketability of a building. Buildings that are not properly maintained and inspected can experience significant degradation over time, which can lead to increased maintenance costs, reduced profitability, and lower occupancy rates. In addition, buyers, tenants, and insurance companies may be reluctant to purchase, rent, or insure buildings that are not in compliance with the legal requirements for structural safety, which can further decrease the value of the property. Therefore, it is important for building owners and managers to take the legal requirements for Structural Integrity Reserve Studies in Florida seriously and to comply with them in order to protect the safety, value, and marketability of their building.

The Role of Structural Integrity Reserve Studies in Ensuring Building Safety

The connection between Structural Integrity Reserve Studies and building safety is essential, as these studies help to identify and address structural issues that may pose a threat to the safety of a building’s occupants. These studies typically involve a thorough inspection of a building’s structure, electrical systems, and safety features, with a focus on identifying any deficiencies or potential hazards that may exist. By conducting these studies on a regular basis, building owners and managers can be proactive in ensuring the safety of their building and its occupants.

Furthermore, using Structural Integrity Reserve Studies can also help property managers and owners plan for maintenance and repairs. By identifying structural issues early on, building owners and managers can budget and plan for necessary repairs and upgrades in a timely manner. This can help to prevent more costly repairs in the future and reduce the risk of liability in case of accidents or incidents. In addition, by conducting Structural Integrity Reserve Studies, building owners and managers can demonstrate their commitment to building safety and demonstrate the value of their property to potential buyers, tenants, and insurance companies. Ultimately, conducting Structural Integrity Reserve Studies and incorporating the findings into a maintenance and repair plan is a crucial step in ensuring the long-term safety, value, and marketability of a building.

Structural Integrity Reserve Studies by Eastern Engineering Group

Eastern Engineering Group is dedicated to helping building owners and managers ensure the safety of their properties. Our team of professional inspectors and engineers have the expertise and experience to conduct comprehensive Structural Integrity Reserve Studies and provide valuable insights and recommendations for any necessary repairs or upgrades. We understand the importance of these studies and are committed to helping our clients meet all their legal requirements and timelines. Whether you need help with a Structural Integrity Reserve Study or structural repair plans, Eastern Engineering Group has the skills and resources to assist you every step of the way.

Navigating the updated building recertification program in Miami in 2023 is a critical task for building owners and managers who want to ensure the safety, reliability, and sustainability of their properties. Building recertification is a process of renewing the certificates of occupancy for existing buildings, and it typically involves evaluating the structural, electrical, plumbing, and fire safety systems of the property. This process is essential to ensure that the building complies with the latest codes and regulations, and it also helps identify potential risks and hazards that may impact the occupants’ health and safety.

The updated building recertification program in Miami for 2023 is designed to provide building owners and managers with the latest tools, technologies, and best practices to manage their properties effectively. This program includes a range of courses, seminars, and workshops that cover the latest trends and developments in building design, construction, maintenance, and operation. The program is intended to help building professionals stay up-to-date with the latest codes and regulations, improve their skills and knowledge, and enhance the value and performance of their properties. However, navigating this program can be a complex process, as it requires careful planning, coordination, and collaboration with different professionals, such as engineers, architects, contractors, and government agencies.

What is the building recertification program?

The building recertification program in Florida is a mandatory process for buildings that are over 30 years old for inland structures, and over 25 years old for structures of 3 stories of more in height within 3 miles of the coastline. The same process is required to be performed every ten years thereafter. The program requires building owners to hire a certified engineer to conduct a recertification inspection of their building’s structural and electrical systems, as well as fire safety and life safety equipment. The engineer must submit a report to the local government detailing the building’s condition and any necessary repairs or upgrades required to ensure public safety and prevention of structural failure.

The building recertification program in Florida is designed to ensure the safety and reliability of the state’s aging building stock. As buildings age, they become more vulnerable to structural damage, electrical failures, and other hazards that can put occupants at risk. The program is intended to identify these risks so that they can be repaired, improving the safety and well-being of their occupants. The program is mandatory, and failure to comply can result in fines and penalties, so it is essential for building owners and property managers to understand the requirements and timeline for recertification.

Changes to the Building Recertification Program

The building recertification program in Florida underwent several changes aimed at improving its effectiveness and efficiency. One significant change was the reduction of the recertification cycle from 40 to 30 years, which means that buildings over 30 years old must undergo the recertification process. This change was made in response to the increasing number of building collapses and structural failures in Florida and aims to identify potential hazards and risks earlier. Additionally, the recertification inspection must now include an evaluation of the building’s façade, which can pose significant safety risks if not adequately maintained.

Another change to the building recertification program in Florida is the implementation of a building safety assessment program. This program requires high-rise buildings over 6 stories or 75 feet in height to undergo a safety assessment by a licensed engineer or architect. The assessment must be submitted to the local government, which will use it to develop a comprehensive safety plan for the building. This program was implemented in response to the tragic collapse of the Champlain Towers South condominium in Surfside, Florida, in June 2021, which highlighted the need for more proactive safety measures and inspections for high-rise buildings. The new safety assessment program is designed to ensure that buildings are regularly evaluated for safety risks and that potential hazards are addressed promptly.

New Inspection Requirements

As stated before, the recertification program includes new inspection requirements that were implemented in response to recent building collapses and structural failures. These new requirements include the evaluation of the building’s façade, which can pose significant safety risks if not adequately maintained. The façade inspection must identify any issues with the building’s exterior walls, such as cracks, spalling, or delamination, and provide recommendations for repairs or maintenance. Additionally, the inspection must evaluate the building’s electrical system, including the main service equipment, distribution panels, branch circuits, and grounding system.

Another new inspection requirement is the evaluation of the building’s fire safety systems, which includes fire alarms, smoke detectors, sprinklers, and fire suppression systems. The inspection must ensure that these systems are in good working order and adequately maintained. The inspection report must identify any deficiencies or issues with the systems and provide recommendations for repairs or upgrades. The new inspection requirements are essential to ensure that buildings are safe and reliable. Building owners and managers must ensure that their properties undergo the necessary inspections and address any issues identified promptly to ensure the safety and well-being of their occupants.

Timeline for Compliance

The timeline for compliance varies depending on the type of building. High-rise buildings in Florida that are 40 years or older are required to comply with the recertification program by submitting their first certification by December 31, 2023, and subsequent certifications every 10 years thereafter. Buildings between 30-39 years old must submit their first certification by December 31, 2024, and every 10 years thereafter. The compliance timeline for buildings less than 30 years old is not yet determined. It’s important to note that these timelines are subject to change, so it’s best to consult the relevant authorities or organizations overseeing the program for the most current and accurate information.

How do These Changes Affect Building Owners and Managers

Changes in the building recertification program can have significant effects on building owners and managers. The program requires certain buildings to undergo a thorough inspection to assess their structural and electrical safety, and identify any potential hazards. If the inspection finds any deficiencies or unsafe conditions, the building owner or manager must address them within a specified timeline to ensure compliance with the program. This can result in significant costs for repairs or upgrades, which may affect a building’s profitability and may require careful budgeting and planning by the owner or manager. However, compliance with the program can also increase the safety of the building’s occupants and protect against potential liability issues in case of accidents or incidents.

Eastern Engineering Group is well equipped to handle all your building recertification needs. Our team of professional inspectors and structural engineers have the expertise and experience to conduct thorough inspections, identify any potential hazards and ensure compliance with the building recertification program. Not only will we help you with the inspection process, but we will also provide you with detailed repair plans if necessary, ensuring that your building is not only compliant with the program but also safe for its occupants. Contact us today to schedule your building recertification inspection and ensure that your building is in good hands.

Miami Dade County has updated their Building Recertification Program for building owners; triggered by the recent tragic events that occurred with the recent collapse of the Champlain Towers. To quickly recap, back in 1974 Miami Dade created a Building Recertification Program after an incident that left 7 people killed and 16 others injured. A portion of the rooftop parking area, on a building leased by the DEA collapsed, and became the catalyst for change.

In May of 1975, the Board of County Commissioners adopted and passed Ordinance No. 75-34. This amended the building code that was previously in place, to now require buildings 40 years of age to be re-certified in regard to their structural safety. This rule applies to all buildings with the exception of single family residences, duplexes, and minor structures. Furthermore, they would then be inspected at 10 year intervals.

Recent Changes Made

With the more recent collapse of the Champlagne Towers, these guidelines have been changed again with stricter requirements. This is in order to prevent these unfortunate events from happening again. These changes include a strengthened Milestone Inspection Program that reduces the inspection cycle from 40 years to 30 years. This is currently limited to condominium and cooperatives association buildings that are three-stories or taller. Additionally, there’s changes regarding condominium and cooperative laws that include no longer being able to wave reserves.

Overview

Let’s take a look at the guidelines regarding the proper timing to re-certify buildings within, and the benefits of advanced notices. We will also clarify WHO exactly is qualified to perform these inspections for recertification. Further, we’ll discuss time extensions and when they are acceptable or applicable. Finally, we’ll go over all the possible review outcomes, for after an inspection is completed. It’s quite a lot of important information to cover, so let’s begin!

3 Sets of Cycles

You may be confused as to when a building needs to be re-certified under these new program guidelines. Before changes were made, the rules and structural guidelines that applied to the building at hand, had to do with the year the building was originally built. This may no longer be the case.

Cycle 1

The first cycle is in regard to buildings that have had recertification under the original 40 year program. Specifically, buildings built on or before 1982 that have had recertification due, under the previous program. Any initial recertification program program performed prior, does in fact remain valid. For example, if a building was successfully re-certified this year in 2022, it will not be due for recertification until 2023. These buildings will continue to use the “year built” for the recertification cycle.

Cycle 2 : Transition Years

Here is where it gets a little complicated. Transition buildings are the structures built from 1983 to 1997 for coastal regions; and from 1983 to 1992 for all other areas. In order for these buildings to not have have their recertification period skipped,these groups of building’s recertification become due by December 31, 2024. This is due to the transition from the recertification cycle changing from 40 years, to 30 years, to 25. This gives them a 2 year period to get inspected for recertification. These buildings will then be due for subsequent recertification every 10 years; so in 2034, 2044, and so on.

Cycle 3 : First Timers

The third set of buildings due to be re-certified, are those whom are scheduled to have their first recertification due to the acceleration of the new cycles set in place. In regard to upcoming year, in 2023 the following buildings are first-timers due for their initial recertification:

• Starts with buildings built in 1998 for condo/coop buildings, three-stories or taller or within 3 miles of a coastline, that are 25 years of age, and every 10 years thereafter.
• Starts with buildings built in 1993, for all other buildings that have reached 30 years of age, and will be due again every 10 years thereafter.

Advanced Notices from Building Officials

Another change included in the new building recertification program enforced by Miami Dade County, includes the early send-out and advanced notices from building officials that recertification will be due. This is extremely beneficial for the owner in providing ample time to make arrangements for necessary inspections and work and/or repairs to be done if required. Additionally, owners will have more time to hire a professional, conduct the milestone inspections, identify any needed repairs, hire a contractor for such repairs, obtain funding, and acquire repair permits.

The first notification will be sent out 2 years prior to recertification being due. A secondary reminder will be sent, one year out of the due date. Finally, a third official notification will be sent out as a final 90 day notice. These reminders are sent at the beginning of the year the building is due. Both structural and electrical reports will be required upon the due date. Payments must also accompany the reports submitted. All reports and payments can be turned in online, brought in-person, or mailed. Be mindful of your due date, if mailing in any of the required reports or payment.

Who Can Perform a Recertification Inspection?

Now that we understand when a building is due for recertification, let’s talk about who can perform these necessary inspections. The over-general answer is: it depends on the building. To clarify, any building 3-stories or less, (or 50 ft. or less in height), that is not classified as a threshold building, can be inspected by a architect or engineer with a valid engineering license. What is a threshold building? A threshold building can be considered any building 3 stories, or 50 ft. in height, or which as an assembly occupancy classification over 50,000 square-foot in area, as well occupant content that exceeds 500 people. Buildings 4-stories and higher, or other threshold buildings must be inspected by a Florida licensed structural engineer. In addition, the electrical system within the building must be inspected by an electrical engineer as well.

Reporting Findings

The new county ordinance is where one can find specific definition of the qualifications of a structural engineer. In addition, the county ordinance has added a provision regarding design professionals reporting building conditions to building officials. If there are any findings that would potentially endanger lives and/or property, they must be quickly reported to the building official within 10 days of the finding. In the case of any immediate danger or potential threats to safety, findings must be reported right away within 24 hours of discovery. Noncompliance can result in fines for not reporting such findings.

If upon inspection, repairs are in fact required, submit the reports immediately. Repair permits are required prior to commencing repairs. In other words, do NOT just start repairs immediately. Make sure the proper permits have been obtained before moving forward with any repairs. Upon the the completion of any repairs, an updated report needs to be submitted in order to complete and finalize the recertification.

Time Extensions

So are there any circumstances that qualify for extensions? Technically, with the abundance of notice time extensions should not become necessary. But, in the case they do, there are certain acceptable guidelines. If more time is needed to submit reports or acquire repair permits, an extension of 60 days can be requested by the design professional. Buildings undergoing recertification must be under the mentioned approved extension time, if reports become past due. There are fees included for such time extensions.

If the extension of time is being requested due to needing time to complete repairs (and proper permits have been obtained), an extension of up to 180 days can be requested by the design professional that originally performed the recertification inspection. To confirm the building is safe to be occupied throughout the repair process, an affidavit needs to be provided.

Possible Building Recertification Inspection Outcomes

Once necessary inspections and reports are complete, they must be submitted via the upload portal online, along with the initial fee. The County will then review all submitted reports. There’s two potential outcomes. Either repairs are not required, and the building is given a clean bill of health, or repairs are required. If the building successfully passes inspection, and recertification is approved, the next recertification cycle begins again. The building will be due for recertification in 10 more years.

If repairs are required,  a design professional needs to be hired to create plans to complete repairs. A contractor will then be hired to perform the necessary work. Once the repairs are completed, the recertification report can be amended, and resubmitted for re-review. Once approved, the recertification cycle begins in 10 years from the date of the original recertification notification.

Safety First

Safety is the main priority for Miami Dade County’s strengthened building recertification program. The ordinance not only meets but exceeds state law requirements. Although the advanced notices are extremely beneficial for building owners, it always helps to be proactive. Doing regular inspections and maintenance can help in both the short and long term. The safety of a buildings inhabitants should always be at the forefront of any matter. These stricter recertification guidelines will only help ensure that, and help preserve the structural safety of the buildings we know and thrive within today.

Information Sourced:

The information sourced in this article has been based on the New Building Recertification Requirements Webinar that occurred on 10/27/22; which was conducted and presented by Deputy Building Official, Sergio T. Ascunce