SB4D: The Future of Building Safety
In May 2022, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed SB4D into law.
This bill requires condominium and cooperative associations to have milestone inspections performed on certain buildings at specified times. The bill also requires local enforcement agencies to prescribe timelines and penalties relating to milestone inspections.
SB4D was passed in response to the collapse of the Champlain Towers South condominium in Surfside, Florida, in June 2021. The collapse killed 98 people and injured many others. The cause of the collapse is still under investigation, but it is clear that the building was in need of repairs.
The law requires condominium and cooperative associations to have milestone inspections performed on certain buildings at specified times. The first milestone inspection must be performed within 10 years of the building's completion, and subsequent milestone inspections must be performed every 10 years thereafter. The law also requires local enforcement agencies to prescribe timelines and penalties relating to milestone inspections.
SB4D has several potential benefits. First, the law could help to prevent future building collapses. By requiring regular inspections, SB4D could identify problems with buildings before they become critical. Second, SB4D could make buildings safer for residents and visitors. By requiring buildings to be properly maintained, SB4D could reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
SB4D also faces several challenges. First, the law could be too burdensome for some condominium and cooperative associations. The cost of regular inspections could be a financial hardship for some associations. Second, SB4D may not be effective in preventing all building collapses. Some buildings may not be inspected regularly, and some problems may not be identified before they become critical.
SB4D is a significant piece of legislation that could have a major impact on the safety of Florida's buildings. The law's benefits are clear, but it also faces some challenges. It is important to carefully evaluate the law to ensure that it is effective in preventing future building collapses.
If you are a resident of Florida, you can help to ensure the safety of your building by contacting your condominium or cooperative association and asking them to comply
