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Does your Condo or Co-Op Require a Florida Milestone Inspection?

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Clear, compliant, and timely inspections for Florida communities.

Florida law now requires structural inspections for many buildings. We help boards and property managers navigate the process, clearly and confidently.

Who Needs to Comply?

Not sure if your community needs to comply? Answer these two questions:

1.
2.
Does your building have three or more habitable stories?
Is your building 30 years or older?

Did you know?

What’s Involved In The Inspection?

Here’s what your milestone inspection process will look like when you work with Bennett & Pless: 

  • Phase 1A visual structural inspection performed by a Florida‑licensed engineer or architect. The required report is then submitted to the local authority. If no significant deterioration is observed, no further action is needed.
  • Phase 2Required only if issues are identified in Phase 1. This is a more targeted, invasive inspection required.

Bennett & Pless can also assist with reserve study insights, repair planning, and full coordination with Property Management firms and HOA Boards.

How Can We Help?

Every community needs different support. Whether you manage properties, serve on a Board, or just want to understand your building better, we’ll tailor our approach to how you work and what your building needs. 

I’m a Property Manager

Managing multiple buildings across Florida? We make inspections easy, without adding more work for you. 

Here’s how we support busy Property Managers: 

  • Provide compliant reports tailored to each property, ready for Board review. 
  • Handle scheduling and access coordination. 
  • Deliver fast turnaround with clear, compliant documentation.
  • Offer guidance your Boards can trust, no technical translation needed. 

We know you’re managing a lot. Our team keeps your portfolio on track so you can focus on the bigger picture. 

Quick Facts for Property Managers: 

  • Inspections are required by law for any residential condo/co-op building with habitable 3 or more stories and 30 or more years old.
  • Phase 1 is non-intrusive and typically requires 2-3 weeks from site visit to report submission. 
  • Phase 2 is only required if structural concerns are observed. 
  • You must distribute the report summary to all unit owners and post it onsite and online. 
  • Inspection reports must be retained for 15 years. 

Non-compliance can result in fines, legal exposure, and occupancy restrictions. 

I represent an HOA or Condo Board

Whether you’re experienced or newly elected, we make it easy to do the right thing for your building. 

We support board members with: 

  • Provide clear explanations of what’s required, and what’s not. 
  • Manage both Phase 1 and, if needed, Phase 2 inspections. 
  • Participate in Board meetings (upon request) to explain findings. 
  • Offer walkthrough of results for Board members. 
  • Assist with reporting, planning next steps, and funding discussions. 

We don’t just deliver reports, we give your Board the clarity and confidence to make sound decisions.

Quick Facts for HOA Boards: 

  • The clock starts based on your building’s Certificate of Occupancy (CO) date, not renovation dates. 
  • You’ll receive official notice from local authorities when it’s time for inspection. 
  • Phase 1 is non-intrusive and typically requires 2-3 weeks from site visit to report submission. 
  • Phase 2 is only required if structural concerns are observed. 
  • You’re required to notify residents of results and post summaries in visible locations. 

Milestone Inspections should be incorporated into long-term capital planning. 

I’m a Homeowner in an HOA or Condo Association

Curious or concerned about the inspection process? We’re here to help clarify what’s happening and why. 

While your board is responsible for coordinating the inspection, we know many homeowners want transparency and reassurance. If your community is working with us, here’s what you can expect: 

  • Provide timely updates and clear communications via your Board or Property Manager. 
  • Deliver professional, respectful service during on-site visits. 
  • Share reports with all unit owners after the inspection. 
  • Ensure your building is being assessed by senior, licensed professionals. 

We understand this is your home. Our goal is to support safe, compliant communities, without overreaching or overcomplicating the process. 

Not sure where your Board stands? Schedule a quick call and we’ll point you in the right direction. 


Why Bennett & Pless?

Florida Communities Trust Bennett & Pless Because: 

  1. 01.

    Local Presence

    We have teams in Orlando, Sarasota, and Tampa ready to meet in person throughout Florida

  2. 02.

    Clear Communication

    Clear, fast, and jargon-free communication

  3. 03.

    Certified Engineers

    Fully licensed and insured firm with a 60+-year track record

  4. 04.

    Expertise

    Thousands of assessments performed, delivering structural insight you can trust


Frequently Asked Questions

This section covers the most common questions we hear from boards, property managers, and legal advisors. These answers reflect the latest Florida requirements under SB 4-D, SB 154, and Florida Statutes §553.899.

What if our property is mixed-use?

If your building has a residential component that is 3 habitable stories or more, the inspection requirement applies, even if there are commercial units. 

Do townhomes need an inspection?

If your townhome is 3 stories, yes. Only buildings that are 3 stories or taller are subject to the law.

Can our usual engineering consultant perform the inspection?

Only if they are licensed in Florida and meet the statutory criteria. Bennett & Pless is licensed in Florida to complete Milestone Inspections.

Are inspection reports public?

Yes. The final reports and summaries become part of the association’s official records and must be shared with all unit owners. 

Can we use reserve funds to pay for this?

Yes. Reserve funding is an appropriate way to cover both inspections and any needed structural repairs.


Let’s Talk About Your Property

Hundreds of Florida condo leaders are getting ahead of the deadline, join them. Schedule a consult with one of our licensed engineers today.

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