Florida's statewide milestone inspection program and the county recertification ordinances are often confused, but they are distinct, different laws, different triggers, different reports. A South Florida building may owe both.
This guide explains the difference so you can plan. We confirm which apply to your specific building.
Milestone inspections (statewide)
The statewide milestone program applies to qualifying multi-story buildings on a schedule set by statute and local enforcement. It is a structural inspection (Phase 1, and Phase 2 if substantial deterioration is found) with a sealed report.
Recertification (county)
County and local recertification, long-standing in Miami-Dade and Broward, and adopted by some other municipalities such as Boca Raton and Boynton Beach, covers structural and electrical safety for aging buildings on each jurisdiction's recurring schedule (now beginning at 30 years, 25 for coastal, in the two big counties).
Can a building owe both?
Yes. A qualifying building in a county with a local recertification program, such as Miami-Dade or Broward, can be subject to both that program and the statewide milestone inspection at the same time, with separate reports and deadlines. Where there is no separate recertification ordinance, such as in the Keys, the milestone inspection is the operative requirement.
Questions
How do I know which my building needs?
It depends on the building's height, age, size, and county. Send us the address and we'll help you understand whether milestone, recertification, or both apply, and their deadlines.