Milestone Inspections
What Are Milestone Inspections? How Do They Affect Buildings In Orlando?
Milestone Inspections and Stair Replacements
As a company that spends many hours focusing on stairs at various properties, we fully understand why some of Florida’s new milestone inspections catch aging staircase issues. We’ve seen it all, from rusted stairs that have lost most of their integrity on one side due to sprinklers covering them in water each day, to rusted stringers that have been painted over and over but have not been treated for rust or reinforced. These kinds of actions may result from a lack of knowledge, cutting corners to save money, or accidental negligence.
Unfortunately, the consequences of not properly keeping up with a building’s stair system can be a huge cost if maintenance has been abandoned for too many years or worse, it can lead to an injury or death if a failure in the stairs occurs during the time of use.
Before we share a little bit about how we can help repair and replace
Orlando steel stairs, let’s look back on the unfortunate occurrence that happened in Surfside, FL in 2021 and understand what the resulting actions were by state lawmakers.
Why Were Milestone Inspections Enacted?
Florida's milestone inspection requirements, established in response to the Surfside condominium collapse, specifically apply to residential condominium and cooperative (co-op) buildings that are three stories or taller. These regulations do not extend to other types of buildings such as hotels, office buildings, or rental apartment complexes.
In June of 2021, nearly half of the Champlain Towers South collapsed killing 98 people. The collapse is attributed to a failure in the pool deck because of a long term issue in which water had been degrading the concrete around the parking garage and pool deck. The building which was 12 stories tall, was built in 1981. Poor building design and adequate maintenance were at fault along with a lack of attention once recommendations were made by an engineering consultant after performing a structural field survey.
This tragic incident had locals and state officials concerned that this could happen elsewhere without serious intervention so two years later, in June of 2023, Senate Bill 154 was enacted as a major amendment to mandatory Milestone Inspections required for condominium associations throughout Florida. These robust inspection rules are intended to protect residents by defining timelines for mandatory inspections to be performed by a licensed architect or engineer authorized to practice in Florida. The reviews are intended to lead to clear recommendations by these professionals on necessary building maintenance for aging condos.
No longer are condo associations allowed to put off important maintenance due to high costs or other constraints. Many recent inspection and repair costs have been reported in the news, leading to hefty special assessments for residents in buildings as well as increases in monthly dues as associations try and plan for future repairs and updates on their buildings.
While these difficult circumstances for condo owners have led to a decrease in sales in some areas, the intention is to avoid major disasters by forcing HOAs to inspect and deal with repairs in a timely manner in order to preserve the longevity of all condominium buildings.
Local Stair Replacements
The rules apply to all condos that are 3 stories or higher which means that stairs will always be present in these residences. At Orlando Custom Railings, we’ve heard from various establishments seeking help with stair replacements or major repairs on multi-flights and large numbers of stairs that span across many buildings on a property. We can assist condo associations and owners in addressing specific structural issues identified during inspections, such as repairing or replacing steel staircases, aluminum railings, and all types of balcony railings to help meet compliance requirements and enhance building safety.
Let’s Understand Milestone Deadlines:
While the original dates that accompany legislation were straightforward and helped the new system roll out in an understandable way, it is even easier to track going forward. When your building turns 25 or 30 years old, your milestone inspection is due for your building by the last day of that year. For the difference between the 25 or 30 year rule, check out this page with specifics regarding proximity to the coast.
Orlando’s Best Stair and Railing Contractor
If you’ve had your property reviewed by an inspector (or any one really) and received advice to address miscellaneous metal around the premises, we can review a written report, photos, or do a site visit to inspect the problem areas of concern and give you a free estimate on what it would take to refurbish or swap out your staircases and rails. We can safely remove the current units and build, install, and even paint your brand new railings.
Common Issues We Address On Condominium Stairs and Handrails
Steel stairs, whether they are pan stairs, metal spiral stairs, or those with aluminum railings, are built to last but can encounter several common issues over time that require attention. One of the most frequent problems is rust and corrosion, especially in outdoor staircases or those exposed to moisture and humidity. Over time, this can compromise the structural integrity of the stairs, making them unsafe for use. Additionally, stair treads and risers often experience wear and tear in high-traffic areas, leading to bent, loose, or unstable components that need prompt attention. The connections and welds, which are critical to the stability of the entire structure, may also degrade, crack, or fail due to environmental factors or repeated stress. These problems are not just cosmetic; they can become significant safety hazards if not addressed by a professional welder or metal fabricator.
When it comes to repairing stairs in Orange County, FL, our team of experienced railing contractors and steel stair builders takes a meticulous and proactive approach. For rust and corrosion, we thoroughly clean and treat the metal surfaces, removing damaged areas and applying industrial-grade protective coatings to prevent future deterioration. If stair treads or risers are bent or worn out, we expertly repair, reinforce, or replace them to meet both safety codes and aesthetic preferences. We have the capabilities to match a unique section or railing you already have on your property if a section is damaged or worn out. Smaller cracked or weakened welds are carefully inspected and re-welded by our skilled welders to restore the strength of the structure. We also pay close attention to aluminum railings, handrails, and balcony railings, ensuring they are securely anchored, free of damage, and compliant with building codes.
Our services don’t just focus on repair; we aim to deliver a comprehensive solution that enhances both the functionality and appearance of your metal staircases and railings. Whether you’re looking for custom stair fabrication, railing installation, new awnings, or repairs on existing metal structures, we are your trusted partner for quality craftsmanship and long-lasting results. From small residential projects to large-scale commercial installations, we bring expertise, precision, and a commitment to excellence to every job. Let us help you maintain and improve your steel stairs, ensuring they remain safe, sturdy, and beautiful for years to come.
Orlando Spiral Stair Construction
Metal spiral stairs, while visually striking and space-efficient, are not immune to common maintenance issues that can arise over time. Rust is a typical problem, especially in outdoor installations where exposure to rain, humidity, or salty air is unavoidable. This type of damage can compromise the overall structural integrity of the stairs, leading to weakened steps and handrails.
Like with a steel staircase, we’ll strengthen any connections that are weakened and replace treads or balusters as needed. Our goal is to preserve the unique charm of your spirals while delivering reliable, expert solutions that meet the highest welding standards. It’s also common for us to replace complete sets of stairs along the beach or at townhomes, where the stairs were all installed at the same time, and begin to wear out all at once.
Railing and Handrail Upkeep
Aluminum railings, often chosen for their sleek appearance and resistance to rust, still face challenges over time, particularly in high-humidity environments like Orlando. One common issue is oxidation, which can cause the railing’s surface to become pitted or dull, detracting from its visual appeal. This is especially true for railings exposed to salty air near the coast or those that haven’t been properly maintained.
Another frequent concern is loose connections or brackets, which can occur due to regular use or insufficient installation. Over time, the hardware securing the railings to stairs, walkways, or balconies may become unstable, creating potential safety hazards. Similarly, dents and scratches are common, especially in railings installed in busy residential complexes or commercial spaces. These cosmetic damages can diminish the professional look of the property and may require expert repair or replacement. As your building ages, entire systems may eventually wear out and we have large enough teams to tackle large-scale jobs to involve 1000s of feel or railing replacement. We can even work with DOT pipe railing in exterior applications along sidewalks and roadways.
At Orlando Custom Railings, we specialize in addressing these challenges for both residential and commercial properties in Central Florida. For oxidation, we use professional-grade treatments to restore the original shine and protect the aluminum from further damage. If dents or scratches are extensive, we offer custom repairs or replacement solutions tailored to your specific needs.
We also provide maintenance services to keep your railings in top condition year-round. From regular inspections to custom fabrications, we’re here to ensure your aluminum railings remain both functional and visually striking. Whether you're upgrading a multi-story condo or maintaining a high-traffic hotel walkway, our team delivers quality results designed for the Orlando climate.
Stay Ahead of Metal Railing Repairs
Preventive maintenance is key to extending the life of steel and aluminum stair systems while ensuring their safety. Regularly inspect for signs of rust, corrosion, or oxidation, particularly in outdoor or humid environments. Pay attention to loose welds or mounting plates, as well as any wear on treads, risers, or handrails. Addressing minor issues early can prevent costly repairs down the line and keep your stairs compliant with safety standards. If you spot any of these issues, Orlando Custom Railings is here to provide expert repair and restoration services tailored to your needs.
