The new law mentions a 365-day deadline for repairs. What does this mean for our association?

This is not a new deadline, but a new enforcement mechanism . Current law already requires associations to commence repairs within 365 days of a Phase Two report. CS/CS/HB 913 now requires local governments (counties or municipalities) to adopt ordinances that enforce this 365-day deadline, ensuring stricter compliance.

What does "habitable story" mean for determining if my building needs a Milestone Inspection under the new law?

The term's application is complex. While HB 913 introduces the term “habitable story” (defined by the Florida Building Code as space for living, sleeping, eating, or cooking), it applies it to the ongoing 10-year SIRS requirement. A key part of the statute still defines the initial milestone applicability as buildings of “three stories or higher,” without the “habitable” qualifier. Because of this legal nuance, you must consult with your association's legal counsel for an opinion on your building's specific situation.

What's the main change to Milestone Inspection applicability in the new Florida law (HB 913) effective July 1, 2025?

The law introduces the term “habitable stories” but applies it inconsistently. This creates a complex legal question about whether buildings like a two-story-over-garage structure are subject to the initial milestone inspection. The previous standard was “three or more stories,” and that language remains in a key part of the statute. Associations must seek a legal opinion to clarify their status.

Our association is struggling to fund reserves identified by our SIRS. Does HB 913 offer any new options?

HB 913 clarifies that unit-owner-controlled associations required to have a SIRS can fund their reserves through special assessments, a line of credit, or a loan, provided it's approved by a majority of the total voting interests of the association.

Are there new rules about conflicts of interest for professionals performing our SIRS?

Yes. Similar to Milestone Inspections, design professionals (like architects and engineers) and licensed contractors who bid on performing a SIRS must now disclose in writing if they also intend to bid on any repair work related to that study. This aims to ensure transparency and avoid potential bias.

Can our association delay performing a SIRS if we've recently completed a Milestone Inspection and need to fund repairs?

Yes , HB 913 allows an association that has completed a required Milestone Inspection to delay conducting its SIRS for up to two consecutive budget years following the milestone inspection. This is to help prioritize funding for repairs identified by the Milestone Inspection. However, if reserve contributions are paused or reduced for this reason, a new SIRS must be done before resuming regular reserve funding.

FAQs | Page 18 of 34 | Building Mavens

The new law mentions a 365-day deadline for repairs. What does this mean for our association?
Read Article
What does “habitable story” mean for determining if my building needs a Milestone Inspection under the new law?
Read Article
What’s the main change to Milestone Inspection applicability in the new Florida law (HB 913) effective July 1, 2025?
Read Article
Our association is struggling to fund reserves identified by our SIRS. Does HB 913 offer any new options?
Read Article
Are there new rules about conflicts of interest for professionals performing our SIRS?
Read Article
Can our association delay performing a SIRS if we’ve recently completed a Milestone Inspection and need to fund repairs?
Read Article

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FAQs

FAQs

The new law mentions a 365-day deadline for repairs. What does this mean for our association?

What does “habitable story” mean for determining if my building needs a Milestone Inspection under the new law?

What’s the main change to Milestone Inspection applicability in the new Florida law (HB 913) effective July 1, 2025?

Our association is struggling to fund reserves identified by our SIRS. Does HB 913 offer any new options?

Are there new rules about conflicts of interest for professionals performing our SIRS?

Can our association delay performing a SIRS if we’ve recently completed a Milestone Inspection and need to fund repairs?

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