In a move to enhance building safety across Florida, the Florida Department of Business & Professional Regulations (DBPR) has introduced a new, standardized Phase 1 form for Milestone Inspections. This development, initiated by the Florida Building Commission Workgroup, signifies a critical step in ensuring that older buildings are rigorously assessed for structural integrity, particularly in areas at risk of deterioration due to age and environmental factors.

This new form will become a mandatory part of the Milestone Inspection process, setting a higher bar for consistency and thoroughness. Whether you are a property owner, manager, or part of a condominium association or cooperative, understanding and complying with this update is essential for maintaining the safety of your buildings.

What’s New with the Phase 1 Milestone Inspection Form?

The Phase 1 Milestone Inspection involves a visual examination of a building’s exterior and accessible areas to identify any signs of structural distress. While this phase has always played a part in determining whether further investigation (Phase 2) is needed, the introduction of the new Phase 1 form marks a significant advancement in how inspections are conducted.

• Standardized Documentation: The new form standardizes how inspections are recorded, ensuring that every inspection across the state meets the same high standards. This helps eliminate discrepancies and ensures that no detail is overlooked during the visual assessment.
• Detailed Reporting Requirements: The form requires inspectors to provide detailed accounts of their findings, covering key structural elements of the building. This level of detail enhances the transparency of the process and provides property owners with a clearer understanding of their building’s condition.
• Consistency Across the State: By introducing a uniform approach to Phase 1 inspections, the new form ensures that all properties are evaluated with the same level of scrutiny, whether they are located on the coast or inland.

The new Phase 1 form is not just a regulatory update—it’s a tool that improves the overall safety and integrity of Florida’s aging buildings. Staying compliant with these new requirements is critical in preventing potential structural failures and ensuring peace of mind for all building occupants.

Why Milestone Inspections Are Essential

Milestone Inspections are designed to assess the structural health of buildings, particularly those that have been standing for several decades. The program is divided into two phases:

• Phase 1: A visual inspection of the building’s exterior and easily accessible areas. This phase helps identify any signs of structural distress that may require further investigation.
• Phase 2: If issues are found during Phase 1, a more detailed inspection is conducted in Phase 2, often involving advanced testing methods to evaluate the building’s internal structure.

These inspections are particularly important for buildings 25 years or older that are located near the coast, as well as those 30 years or older located further inland. Regular inspections help identify potential issues before they escalate, allowing for timely repairs and maintenance.

Staying Ahead of Compliance: What This Means for You

With the new Phase 1 form in place, the stakes for compliance are higher than ever. Property owners, managers, condominium associations, and cooperatives must ensure that their buildings undergo these inspections regularly and that all findings are accurately documented using the new form. Non-compliance can result in large fines, legal challenges, and, most importantly, risks to the safety of building occupants.

Understanding these changes and proactively addressing them is key to maintaining the integrity of your property and avoiding potential liabilities.

Why Beryl Engineering & Inspection is Your Ideal Partner

At Beryl Engineering & Inspection, we are committed to leading the way in implementing these new standards. Starting September 1st, we will be fully prepared to conduct Milestone Inspections using the latest Phase 1 form. Our proactive approach ensures that your inspections will not only meet the new regulatory requirements but also provide you with the peace of mind that your property is in safe hands.

We understand the importance of thoroughness and precision in every inspection we conduct. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to stay ahead of the curve, keeping our clients consistently aligned with the most up-to-date standards.

By partnering with Beryl, you are choosing a company that prioritizes safety, transparency, and excellence in all that we do. We’re here to guide you through every step of the Milestone Inspection process.

Ready to Schedule Your Inspection?

Make sure your property complies with the new regulations. Schedule your Milestone Inspection Proposal today, or contact us directly at reserve@beryleng.com or 813-680-4480 to discuss your specific needs. At Beryl Engineering & Inspection, we’re more than just a service provider—we’re your trusted partner in building safety.