Who is required to have the HR7020 inspection?  

All public lodging establishments, in which units/rooms are rented for periods of less than 30 days (transient lodging) and any person or business in which units/rooms are rented for periods of at least 30 days (non-transient).  including hotels, apartments, and condos, that are three stories or more in height are required to undergo regular balcony inspections to ensure the safety and structural integrity of these structures. According to the Florida Statutes, Title XXXIII, Chapter 509, Section 509.2112, these establishments must file a certificate stating that all balconies, platforms, stairways, and railways have been inspected by a qualified professional and are deemed safe and free of defects​ (Florida Senate).

How often do balconies need to be inspected in Florida?

The law mandates that these inspections occur every three years. The initial inspection and filing of the certificate must have commenced by January 1, 1991, with subsequent inspections and filings required every three years thereafter​ (Florida Senate)​​.

What is the DBPR-HR-7020 form for balcony inspections?

The DBPR-HR-7020, also known as the “Certificate of Balcony Inspection,” is the form required by the Division of Hotels and Restaurants of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). This form must be completed by a licensed professional who certifies that the balconies and other elevated structures are safe and free of defects. The form can be accessed and downloaded here.

What is included in a balcony inspection report for Florida lodging establishments?

A comprehensive balcony inspection report should include:

• A detailed assessment of the structural integrity of balconies, platforms, stairways, and railways.

• Identification of any defects or safety issues.

• Recommendations for repairs or maintenance if necessary.

• Certification by a licensed professional engineer or architect stating that the structures are safe for use.

How do I file a balcony inspection certificate with the Florida DBPR?

To file the certificate, complete the DBPR-HR-7020 form and submit it to the Division of Hotels and Restaurants. The form must also be filed with the applicable county or municipal authority responsible for building and zoning permits. The process involves both physical submission and, increasingly, online submission via the DBPR’s online services portal​ (MyFloridaLicense)​.

What are the penalties for not complying with balcony inspection laws in Florida?

Penalties for non-compliance can include fines, suspension of licenses, or even closure of the establishment until compliance is achieved. The Division of Hotels and Restaurants enforces these penalties to ensure public safety and adherence to building codes​ (Florida Senate)​​.

Where can I find the 2023 Florida Statutes on balcony inspections for public lodging establishments?

The 2023 Florida Statutes detailing the requirements for balcony inspections can be found under Title XXXIII, Chapter 509. Specifically, Section 509.2112 addresses the inspection rules for public lodging establishments three stories or more in height. The statutes are accessible online at the Florida Senate’s official website here.

Why Choose Emerald Coast Property Inspection for Your Balcony Inspections?

When you choose Emerald Coast Property Inspection to perform your balcony inspection, you can rest assured that you will be working with certified inspectors who have considerable experience with performing inspections that comply with Florida State requirement DBPR-HR-7020, otherwise known as the “Division of Hotels and Restaurants Certificate of Balcony Inspection.”

Each balcony receives a thorough visual inspection that includes fasteners, railings, ledger boards, wall attachments, and decking. All stairwell railings are also inspected.

At the end of the inspection, the property owner receives a comprehensive report detailing how many units were inspected and how many deficiencies were noted. Each deficiency is described in the report so that the property owner can take steps to have it addressed.

Once repairs and updates are complete, the inspector will return to the property to ensure that all deficiencies have been resolved. Often, we find deferred maintenance issues are prevalent throughout the property. 

(All prices include the Common area walk-way and stairwell)