After the Champlain Towers South collapse in 2021, Florida enacted legislation requiring structural inspections for older condominium buildings. Here’s what the milestone inspection law requires and what it means for buyers.
What the Law Requires
Florida’s SB 4-D requires condominium buildings three stories or taller to undergo a structural milestone inspection at 30 years of age (25 years if within three miles of the coast) and every 10 years thereafter. The inspection must be performed by a licensed engineer or architect and cover the building’s structural integrity.
Structural Integrity Reserve Studies
In addition to milestone inspections, the law requires associations to conduct Structural Integrity Reserve Studies (SIRS) and fund reserves accordingly. Before the law, many Florida condo associations waived reserve funding — leaving buildings without money for major repairs. That practice is now restricted for the items covered by SIRS.
What This Means for Buyers
Before buying in any multi-story Florida condo building, request the most recent milestone inspection report if available, the current reserve study, and information on any special assessments planned or pending. These documents tell you about the building’s condition and financial health — information that affects your investment significantly.
For unit-level condo inspections across South Florida, call MIS Home Inspections at (954) 833-0405.
