Kurt Kennedy 11/12/25 Kurt Kennedy 11/12/25

Part 3: Top Challenges and Smart Strategies for Boards — Making the SIRS Work for You

Challenge 1: Big Financial Gaps

Many SIRS reports reveal underfunded reserves. Boards must decide whether to raise assessments, take loans, or levy special assessments. Communicate early with owners and provide multiple funding scenarios.

Challenge 2: Coordinating with Milestone Inspections

If your building also requires a milestone inspection, combine efforts to reduce cost and overlap. Engineers can often perform both studies in one visit, streamlining compliance.

Kurt Kennedy 11/11/25 Kurt Kennedy 11/11/25

Part 2: How the SIRS Process Works — Step by Step for Your Association

Step 1: Determine Applicability and Deadlines

Confirm if your building has three habitable stories or more. If yes, it’s covered. Existing associations must complete the first SIRS by December 31, 2025. Buildings constructed after that date will need a SIRS within 10 years of their certificate of occupancy.

Step 2: Hire a Qualified Professional

The visual inspection portion must be completed by a Florida-licensed engineer or architect, or a certified reserve specialist. Hire someone with relevant experience, good references, and no conflicts of interest.

Kurt Kennedy 11/8/25 Kurt Kennedy 11/8/25

Part 3: How Condo Boards Can Handle Milestone Inspections Like Pros

Milestone inspections don’t have to be a nightmare. With the right planning and communication, boards can turn this process into an opportunity — not just a requirement.

Step 1: Know Your Building’s Timeline

Check the date on your building’s certificate of occupancy. That’s what determines when your first milestone inspection is due. If you’re within three miles of the coast, you’re likely on the 25-year schedule — so plan early.

Kurt Kennedy 11/6/25 Kurt Kennedy 11/6/25

Part 1: What Are Milestone Inspections — and Why They Matter for Your Condo

If you live in a Florida condominium that’s three stories or taller, you’ve probably heard the term milestone inspection more than once this year. It sounds technical, but it’s really about one thing: keeping our buildings — and everyone inside them — safe. Here’s what every condo owner should know.