Building Safety Inspection Program (BSIP)

Overview

The Building Safety Inspection Program (BSIP) is a Broward County–mandated program established by the Board of Rules and Appeals (BORA) to ensure that aging buildings remain structurally and electrically safe.

All applicable buildings must undergo periodic inspections performed by a Florida Licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect.

Who Must Comply

Buildings are subject to the BSIP if they meet the following criteria:

Buildings 25 years or older
Typically, three (3) stories or greater
Structures exceeding 3,500 square feet

Note: The following buildings or structures are exempt from this program:

US Government Buildings
State of Florida Buildings
Buildings built on sovereign tribal lands.
School buildings under the jurisdiction of the Broward County School Board.
Single-family, two-family, three-family, and four-family dwellings with three or fewer habitable stories above ground.
Fee simple Townhouses as defined in the Florida Building Code.
Minor structures, defined as buildings or structures in any occupancy group having a gross floor area of less than three thousand five hundred (3,500) square feet.
Railroads and ancillary facilities associated with the railroad.

Inspection Timeline

Property owners will receive a Notice of Required Inspection
Inspection reports must be submitted within 180 days
Recertification is required every 10 years thereafter
Inspection Requirements
Structural Inspection Report
Electrical Inspection Report
Completed by a licensed Engineer or Architect
Reports must be signed and sealed

Repairs & Compliance

If deficiencies are identified:

Repairs must be completed within 180 days (unless otherwise directed)
A status letter must be provided
A final certification report is required after repairs are completed

Submittal Process (Miramar)

All BSIP documents must be submitted through the City of Miramar permitting system:

Permit Type: BSIP → Residential BSIP or Commercial BSIP
Upload required documents

For assistance: bsip@miramarfl.gov

Required Documents

BSIP Submittal Form
Structural Report
Electrical Report
Supporting documentation (if applicable)

Fees

A review fee will be required at the time of submittal. (To be determined)

Property Lists & Eligibility

To verify if your property is included, refer to Broward County BSIP property lists.

Contact
City of Miramar – Building, Planning & Zoning
2200 Civic Center Place, Miramar, FL 33025
(954) 602-3200
bsip@miramarfl.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to submit?

BSIP Submittal coversheet
Structural Packet: Minimum Inspection Guideline for Building Safety
Electrical Packet: Minimum Inspection Guideline for Building Safety
Forms sealed/stamped by a Florida-registered Architect or Engineer
Forms must include original signatures
Architect/Engineer must check “No Repairs Required”
$350 submission fee
Include email address to receive an approved copy

What if I no longer own the property?

BCPA records will be checked and updated if a new owner is listed. If BCPA still lists you as owner, you must contact them directly.

What if the building is not 25 years old?

The Building Division will verify the age with the Broward County Property Appraiser’s Office.

I performed interior demolition/renovation. Am I exempt?

No. Exterior structural and electrical inspections are still required. Only full building demolition qualifies for exemption.

Will a Building Code Inspector come out?

No. Review is based solely on the licensed architect/engineer’s sealed report.

How long does the review take?

Approximately four to six weeks.

Will I receive written certification when compliant?

If accepted, your file is closed and no notice is issued. If repairs are needed, you will have 180 days to complete them and resubmit.

Do I need inspections if demolishing in six months?

Yes, particularly if still occupied. Exception requests must be submitted in writing.

Must the building be brought up to current code?

Not fully. The inspection ensures existing electrical and structural systems are safe. Repair work may require adherence to current code.

Will an inspector return after repairs?

No. A new sealed report from your architect/engineer must be submitted.

What if I do not submit within 90 days?

Extensions must be requested in writing. Without extension, code enforcement may begin, including fines or building being deemed unsafe.

Can the City recommend Architects or Engineers?

No, due to conflict of interest.

Helpful resources include fbpe.org and aiafla.org.

Do I need separate structural and electrical engineers?

Your hired architect/engineer will advise whether they are qualified in both disciplines.

What is required for repair permits?

Permit application by licensed and insured contractor
Two sets of repair documentation and locations
Structural calculations may be required

How do I know if a permit is required?

Ask your architect/engineer or contractor.

Contact Information

BSIP Program Support – Miramar
For questions regarding the Broward County Building Safety Inspection Program (BSIP):
Email: bsip@miramarfl.gov
Phone: (954) 602-3200

Structural Division Contact
Name: Oniel E. Toledo – Structural Chief
Phone: (954) 602-3216
Email: oetoledo@miramarfl.gov

Electrical Division Contact
Name: Scott Douglas – Electrical Chief
Phone: (954) 602-3228
Email: spdouglas@miramarfl.gov