Threshold Special Inspections are a mandatory, in-depth evaluation required for large-scale buildings in Florida to ensure the structural components are built exactly as specified by the engineer of record. Our role is to act as your independent, certified Special Inspector. We are committed to safeguarding your investment and the public by verifying compliance and structural soundness at every stage.
Our Threshold Special Inspections Process
Threshold Inspection Plan Review
The foundation of a successful inspection is a comprehensive plan. We review and help develop the threshold inspection services miami plan, which must be submitted and approved by the enforcing agency prior to the issuance of a building permit.
Structural Component Oversight
We provide direct oversight of all major structural work. This includes monitoring concrete pouring, placement of reinforcing steel, post-tensioning activities, and ensuring every load-bearing element meets the design specifications.
Defining a “Threshold Building”
As defined by Florida Statute 553.71(7), a “Threshold Building” is any building greater than three stories or 50 feet in height, or which has an assembly occupancy of more than 500 people and exceeding 5,000 square feet of occupancy area.
High-Rise & Large Occupancy Expertise
With twenty years of experience, we specialize in the unique challenges presented by high-rise residential condominiums, large commercial towers, and other structures that fall under the Threshold classification.
Detailed Reporting & Compliance
We provide meticulous, timely reports documenting all inspections and findings. This documentation is essential for quality control, stakeholder communication, and final sign-off with the building authority.
Decoding the Legal Criteria: What is a Threshold Building?
The requirement for Threshold Special Inspections is governed by Florida Statute 553.71. For developers, it is vital to know whether your project meets this legal threshold building definition. The criteria are strict and are based on size and occupancy. (Internal Link)
Criteria 1: Height (Greater than 3 Stories)
Any building that is greater than three stories in height, including the ground floor, is automatically a Threshold Building. Our firm specializes in the continuous structural oversight required for these vertical projects.
Criteria 2: Occupancy (500+ Persons)
Even single-story buildings can qualify. If a structure has an assembly occupancy that exceeds 500 persons (e.g., a large school, auditorium, or community center), Threshold Special Inspections are required. This ensures the safety of large crowds in an emergency.
Critical Oversight: Shoring Inspections & Safety
One of the most essential aspects of Threshold Special Inspections is the rigorous oversight of temporary structures. Before you pour a new slab or begin deep excavation, the supports must be inspected by a certified professional.
Shoring Inspection Requirements
Shoring is the temporary support system used to hold up wet concrete during vertical construction. It requires an inspection before any concrete is placed. We check for the following critical items:
- Design Compliance: We verify the shoring is built exactly to the engineer’s plan, checking the size and spacing of the posts and beams.
- Reshoring Procedure: We verify the contractor’s plan for removing and replacing supports on lower floors, which is a common point of failure.
- Equipment Integrity: We check the condition of the shoring jacks and components to ensure they are not damaged, rusted, or inadequate for the massive load.
Connection to Shoring Services
This inspection is so specialized that many developers hire a dedicated Shoring Design Specialist (which we are) to design the system, and then hire a Special Inspector (which we also are) to verify it. This integrated approach ensures both safety and compliance.
Ensure Your Project Meets Florida's Highest Safety Standards
