Threshold Inspections

The state of Florida requires special inspections to be performed during the construction of “threshold” buildings. These threshold building inspections are a unique requirement for Florida. Proper threshold inspections ensure the conformance of all building and structural components. This is a very important Orlando and Tampa, Florida, building service that provides value to the client, as well as the general public. This is because our threshold inspection service helps avert cataclysmic construction disasters, such as the 1981 Harbour Cay Condominium collapse that precipitated the need for such inspections.

After that fateful day in 1981, the state of Florida Building Construction Standards created Chapter 553 of the Florida statutes. Chapter 553.71 defines a “threshold” building as “any building which is greater than three stories or 50 feet in height or has an “assembly” occupancy classification that exceeds 5,000 square feet in area and an occupant capacity of greater than 500 persons.” Basically, if a building is tall or is meant to house a lot of people at once, its various structural elements need to be reviewed by a licensed threshold inspector to ensure proper compliance.

Our threshold inspection services consist primarily of inspections of all structural members, frames, systems, and other building components used during construction. These inspections will be conducted by a state-certified Special Inspector (SI); otherwise known as a threshold inspector. As a result of our thorough and meticulous process, these inspections ensure structural integrity and life safety of the entire structure in parts and as a whole. Daily, a detailed written record of inspections is reported along with a daily log of all inspection types made on site. The Inspection reports are submitted on a weekly basis, signed and sealed by the Special Inspector. This process includes a final conformance certification for your building.

If you’re building a taller structure meant to house many people in Tampa or Orlando, Florida, contact the professional special inspectors at Belt Engineering today to ensure you adhere to Florida’s Threshold Inspection Law.

How Long Do Threshold Inspections Take?

The length of a threshold inspection depends on the type and size of the building being inspected. Generally, inspections will take multiple days for renovation projects to multiple months for new construction projects. During this time, daily written reports are kept detailing all inspection types conducted on site and submitted to the client, AHJ and Engineer of Record at regular intervals along with a final inspection letter per in conformance with Florida Statutes. The experienced special inspectors at Belt Engineering have years of experience performing these inspections quickly and accurately while adhering to all applicable regulations.

How Are Threshold Inspections Conducted?

Threshold inspections are conducted by authorized representatives under a state-certified Special Inspector (SI), also known as threshold inspector. At Belt Engineering, our inspectors are staff engineers with degrees in civil/structural engineering. These professionals have years of experience in inspecting buildings for their structural integrity and life safety, making sure all components meet the applicable regulations.

Prior to the inspection, the SI will review the threshold inspection plan prepared by the Engineer of Record. The SI will acknowledge whether shoring is required and write a letter to the AHJ of the determination of shoring.

During a threshold inspection, the SI will examine all building elements, including but not limited to foundations, walls, columns and beams, floors and roofs. Additionally, they will verify that material testing is being conducted by the structural specifications and threshold inspection plan. Once complete, the inspector will provide detailed reports of their findings along with any recommendations for further action or repairs needed.

The experienced special inspectors at Belt Engineering provide comprehensive threshold inspections that ensure conformance with Florida’s strict requirements.