South Florida, renowned for its vibrant culture and beautiful beaches, boasts a rich architectural landscape. Real estate values have risen significantly across the United States in the last decade, but in a few places, if any, you could find that statement to hold truer than in Miami Dade County.
Property ownership in Miami Dade area has become more and more challenging with the rise of property prices, current state of interest rates and the cost of home/building insurance. Homeowner associations (HOA) fees have gone from an affordable amount to a sizeable share of the monthly shelter expenditure. And although property maintenance is the leading factor contributing to the cost of homeowner’s association, something that is seldom mentioned when referring to the cost of owning property in Miami Dade or Broward, is the Building Recertification Process. Now, depending on the type of property and your stake of the whole building, costs might go from a few hundred dollars to several thousands!
In this article, we'll explore the essential requirements and laws governing the 30-Year Building Recertification (Previously know as the 40-year building recertification) in Miami-Dade County, shedding light on what property owners, and building managers need to know.
Building Recertification, It’s All About Safety
The 30-year building recertification is a crucial process designed to ensure the safety and integrity of structures over time. In Miami-Dade County, this process takes on added significance due to the region's susceptibility to hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters. As such, local authorities have implemented stringent laws and regulations to safeguard both residents and properties.
What buildings require building recertification?
As you may have guessed, all buildings! With the exception of single-family residences, duplexes and minor structures, every building has to go under the recertification process at the 30 year mark and every 10 years thereafter.
Stated Requirements for the 40 Year Building Recertification
With the recent implementation of a new state law on May 26, 2022, the landscape of building inspections for associations three stories high or taller and condominiums have undergone significant changes. Coupled with amendments to Miami-Dade County's Building Recertification Program on June 1, 2022, these legislative updates have far-reaching implications for property owners across the county.
For buildings constructed on or before 1982 that have previously undergone building inspections through Miami-Dade's 40-Year Recertification Program, the status quo remains unchanged, with adherence to established schedules.
Buildings that are 3 stories high or taller constructed between 1983 and 1997 and situated within three miles of the coastline, face mandatory recertification inspections by December 31, 2024, and subsequently every decade thereafter. Similarly, structures built between 1983 and 1992 must adhere to the same inspection timeline.
Buildings that are 3 stories high or taller, constructed within three miles of the coastline on or after 1998, the recertification process commences when the building reaches 25 years of age, with subsequent inspections every decade.
Properties built after 1993 must undergo recertification when they reach the 30-year mark, followed by inspections every ten years thereafter.
Beware Property Owners!
For property owners in Miami-Dade County, compliance with building recertification laws is not just a legal requirement but also a matter of safety and responsibility. Failure to adhere to these laws can result in penalties, fines, and even the revocation of occupancy permits. Therefore, it's essential for property owners to stay informed about their obligations and ensure timely compliance with recertification requirements.
Get Recertified with Ease
Navigating the building recertification process in Miami-Dade County can seem daunting, but partnering with experienced professionals, such as licensed engineers and inspectors familiar with local regulations, might go a long way in navigating the process efficiently, while ensuring compliance.
Conclusion
Today, the building recertification is a critical aspect of property ownership in Miami-Dade County. With laws and regulations in place, property owners must prioritize safety and compliance to protect both the investment and the well-being of their communities. Understanding the requirements and selecting a seasoned professional to navigate this process will make the 30 Year Recertification much easier, while upholding the highest standards of safety and integrity for their buildings and communities.