The Florida milestone inspection would document findings of issues that could threaten the structural integrity of the building. Since Florida Milestone Inspection Report document according to Law focuses on foundation, wall, framing system, roofing and load-bearing systems the inspector will visually observe the condition of each item but also from the license engineers’ years of experience would need to add extra attention on structural issues that could cause catastrophe.

Given that Florida has many condominiums located near the beach, this elevates the risk of structural deterioration due to saltwater exposure, high humidity, and moisture retention.

Much like the accident that triggered the Surfside Bill from the collapse in Champlain Towers South in 2021, which killed 98 people, and more recently, the South Beach Condos in 2025, which caused the evacuation of 60 people after cracks were observed in a pillar. The lack of waterproofing and the intrusion of water/moisture in condominiums and the failure to notice o take action is a contributing factor.

The following are the most critical issues, what to look out for during inspections, and signs of deterioration or structural issues to watch for:

Deterioration of Concrete

Concrete deterioration is the most common cause of building collapse. During the milestone inspection, professionals need to observe spalling or the flaking of peeling of the concrete and cracks with rust stains and exposed or corroded rebar, especially in slabs and columns of the building, that could affect the loss of structural load capacity. cracks (hairline or larger cracks), water stains, and others are being observed as signs of deformation.

Cracks are being measured in mm or inches with a crack with gauge, caliper, laser level and the likes, basically there are different tools depending on what’s visually considered cracks. These essential instruments help inspectors determine whether the cracks are just superficial or has high potential sign of weakening of the concrete.

Deformation of Load-Bearing elements

Load-bearing elements such as walls, columns, beams and trusses which are the specific structural systems being focused by the milestone inspection. It is being observed for hogging and sagging beams or when the beams start to form a curve when a load is applied.

Water Intrusion and Moisture seeping into structural components

One of the critical inspections in Florida milestone inspections is to confirm the waterproofing of the components. Discoloration, molds on ceilings and walls are visible signs of water intrusion. Cracks and rust stains are also signs of load stress and corrosion.

Foundation Sinking

The sinking of a foundation of a building is a dangerous structural failure that is keep an eye on during the structural inspection. Foundation sinking is a risk for buildings that are old and not strong enough to support current and added load over the years.

Soil movements from ground shaking either due to construction nearby or earthquakes and perhaps water in the ground that can affect the soil condition. Footing systems can also affect the foundation overtime. During milestone inspection, the foundation is visually inspected by the professional, check items such as if wood is contact near the soil, if water is drained away.