If you own or manage a building in Broward County, Florida, reaching the 40-year milestone is more than just a marker of age—it’s a regulatory turning point. Every structure that hits its 40-year anniversary (and every 10 years thereafter) must undergo a thorough structural and electrical inspection to ensure it remains safe and habitable.
40-Year Building Recertification Inspection experts specialize in ensuring the structural and electrical safety of aging buildings. With in-depth knowledge of local regulations, these professionals conduct thorough inspections to help property owners meet compliance standards, avoid penalties, and maintain occupant safety. Trust their expertise to navigate the recertification process smoothly and efficiently. In this guide, we’ll break down what this process involves, who it affects, and how you can prepare effectively, ensuring the safety and longevity of your property.
The Broward County 40 year building recertification is a mandated inspection program that requires older buildings to prove their ongoing structural integrity and electrical safety. Initiated after the devastating collapse of a Miami-area parking garage in the 1970s and later influenced by the 2021 Surfside tragedy, the goal of this ordinance is to protect public safety and maintain building standards.
This requirement is overseen by the Broward County Building Safety Inspection Program and enforced at the city level. Buildings are notified via certified mail and must complete the process within a designated timeframe after notification—usually 90 to 180 days.
The program requires independent, licensed professionals to inspect building systems and prepare detailed reports. These reports are then reviewed by local building departments, who either approve the certification or request follow-up actions.
The 40-year recertification is not a one-size-fits-all requirement. It specifically targets older buildings that are more likely to experience age-related deterioration. The intent is to ensure that such structures remain safe for occupants and the public.
Owners should begin preparations at least six months before the deadline. Early planning allows for a smoother process, particularly if the inspection uncovers issues that require time to resolve.
The 40-year recertification consists of two critical evaluations that work in tandem to assess a building’s structural soundness and electrical safety.
This inspection ensures that the physical integrity of the building is uncompromised. It includes:
The goal is to confirm that all structural elements are in working condition and not at risk of failure under normal usage.
This component assesses the safety and code compliance of the building’s electrical systems. Inspectors check:
Both inspections must be performed by licensed engineers or architects, who then prepare official, sealed reports summarizing their findings.
Ignoring or delaying your 40-year recertification can lead to a series of serious consequences for both property value and occupant safety:
By staying proactive and on schedule, owners can avoid legal and financial risk while fostering long-term safety for residents and tenants.
Understanding the steps in the 40-year recertification process can help ensure smooth compliance and minimal disruption to your property.
You’ll receive a certified letter from the city alerting you that your building has reached the recertification threshold.
Contact a state-licensed structural engineer or architect with expertise in local building code compliance. Choose someone who is familiar with Broward’s specific requirements and has experience with similar property types.
The professional reviews available documentation (e.g., original plans, previous inspections, maintenance records) to prepare for a thorough on-site visit.
The engineer visits the property to assess all structural and electrical systems. Depending on the findings, they may recommend further testing, especially in areas showing signs of deterioration.
Following the inspection, the engineer prepares two reports (structural and electrical), which summarize their observations, deficiencies (if any), and recommendations.
Reports are submitted to the building department. The municipality reviews the documents and either accepts them or requests additional documentation or repairs.
If any deficiencies are noted, repairs must be completed by licensed contractors. A follow-up inspection confirms compliance.
Once the building meets all code requirements, the city issues formal recertification, valid for the next 10 years.
Your choice of engineer or architect can significantly impact the speed and effectiveness of your recertification. Consider the following:
Avoid hiring based on price alone. Look for a firm that emphasizes precision, timeliness, and code knowledge—like Souffront Engineering, which specializes in comprehensive, engineer-led recertifications throughout Broward.
While the cost of the 40-year recertification varies depending on your building’s size, age, and complexity, the investment is justified by the long-term benefits it provides.
A timely recertification:
Remember, the process is not just about passing an inspection—it’s about creating a proactive maintenance and safety culture that preserves your property and protects lives.
The 40 year recertification in Broward County is a serious legal obligation—and an essential measure to protect lives and property. With increased scrutiny on aging structures in Florida, now is the time to ensure your building is safe, compliant, and future-ready.
If your property is nearing the 40-year mark or overdue for inspection, don’t delay. Souffront Engineering specializes in building safety inspections and offers thorough, compliant services tailored to your property’s needs.
Get started today. Contact Us to schedule your 40-year building recertification in Broward County and safeguard your investment.
