Florida Statute 553.791 and Virtual Inspections: What Contractors Need to Know

Florida Statute 553.791 is the legal foundation for private provider inspections. Here are the sections that directly affect contractors.

The Right to Choose (Section 2a)

An owner or contractor may choose a private provider "notwithstanding any other law or local government ordinance." No municipality can override this right.

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Required Fee Reductions (Section 2b)

Jurisdictions must reduce permit fees when a private provider is used. The 2021 amendments made this mandatory.

Virtual Authorization (Section 8)

As amended by HB 401 (2021), the inspector does not need to be physically present. Inspections can be conducted via live video or recorded evidence.

Emergency Provisions (Section 10)

For emergency work, the NTBO is waived. Inspection within 3 business days; report submitted within 1 day. Same-day inspection for emergency HVAC replacements.

Building Official's Authority (Section 7)

The building official can audit but cannot refuse to accept private provider inspections as a blanket policy.