After the Surfside tragedy, I wanted to assure the residents of Palm Beach County that our buildings are safe. After reviewing the code in Broward and Miami-Dade County, it's apparent that Palm Beach County needs to put together a certification program to inspect buildings. Therefore, I have proposed to county staff that a task force be created to review the structural integrity of all our buildings, commercial, residential, and industrial.
The task force will consist of structural engineers, architects, insurance representatives, condo attorneys, real estate and brokers. A report will be presented to the county commission reflecting needs of certain areas which require further attention. A recommendation will be made to the State Legislature for a state-wide review of all high rises, using Palm Beach County’s certification program as a template for the entire State. Under this program all buildings will have an inspection performed and a report will be provided for structural and electrical systems.
In the meantime, county residents are encouraged to continue to report any perceived damage or deterioration on structures at any time you may email our Building Department at PZB-Bldg@pbc.gov.
Let's stay safe,
- Commissioner Maria Sachs
