Senate Bill 4D
Everything you need to know about Florida’s new condo law.
After the heartbreaking Surfside Condo collapse in 2021, the Florida legislature stepped up to create safer living spaces for its condo residents.
Senate Bill 4D focuses on better safety measures and maintenance for condominium associations – and brings major changes and expenses to Florida condo owners and communities.
We’ll help you understand what this new law means for you, whether you’re a condo owner, a potential buyer, or an association manager.
New Florida Condominium Legislation
“I hear you, and we have heard from folks throughout the state on that issue, on the question of will it be burdensome,” Senate Bill 154 sponsor Jennifer Bradley, R-Fleming Island, said. “And I cannot sit here today and tell you that there is not an owner in the state of Florida who won’t see an increase because of this … effort on the part of the Legislature to make sure that folks that live in condos are safe.” (Credit @CBS News Miami)
“I hear you, and we have heard from folks throughout the state on that issue, on the question of will it be burdensome,” Senate Bill 154 sponsor Jennifer Bradley, R-Fleming Island, said. “And I cannot sit here today and tell you that there is not an owner in the state of Florida who won’t see an increase because of this … effort on the part of the Legislature to make sure that folks that live in condos are safe.” (Credit @CBS News Miami)
ALL Florida condominiums and cooperatives that are 30 years of age or older and have 3 stories or more are subject to the New Condo Laws. It is a common mistake to think that the new laws only apply to condominium buildings within 3 miles from the coastline. However, local enforcement agencies may, in their own discretion, opt to set a 25-year inspection requirement if justified by local environmental conditions, including proximity to seawater.
Initially there was a Dec 31st, 2023 deadline for Milestone Inspections. This has been changed to Dec 31st, of 2024 by Senate Bill 154.
Everything You Need to Know About
Florida’s New Condo Law.
Milestone Inspections
Milestone Inspections are essential safety evaluations conducted by licensed architects or engineers to assess the condition of a condominium or cooperative building’s structural integrity and life safety components throughout the State of Florida. The purpose of the Milestone Inspection, in addition to assessing the condition of the aforementioned items, is to ensure that the inspected buildings are AND remain safe and in compliance with the new regulations that have been enacted following the Champlain Towers South Disaster in 2021. Owners within these buildings should be prepared for potential maintenance and repair costs arising from the inspection findings. Safety comes at the cost of regular inspection, maintenance, and replacement as required. The schedule for the Milestone Inspection requirements is provided in the table below:
What Are Inspectors Trying to Find?
Inspectors or structural engineers evaluate the overall integrity and safety of the building during milestone inspections, ensuring the community is well-maintained for occupants’ protection.
Who Pays for These Inspections?
The condominium or cooperative association is responsible for covering the costs associated with milestone inspections. These costs are often passed on to existing owners.
What If Repairs Need to Be Made?
If structural deficiencies are found, condo owners may face additional repair costs, unforeseen assessments, and possible disruptions as the association makes repairs.
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