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Find Blog Articles for Florida’s Condo, HOA and the Management Industry. 

Does your building’s exterior need a facelift? Our team of experts specializes in building maintenance and exterior services, from high-rise window cleaning to garage restoration.

Does your building’s exterior need a facelift? Our team of experts specializes in building maintenance and exterior services, from high-rise window cleaning to garage restoration.

  • Posted: Jun 19, 2024
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Does your building’s exterior need a facelift?

Well it now the Building Inspection! and Your Condo needs this NOW!

Our team of experts specializes in building maintenance and exterior services, from high-rise window cleaning to garage restoration.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to revamp your building’s look and enjoy a delicious meal on us!

Contact us today to schedule your estimate.

Our Expertise

Our 20+ years expertise in this industry guarantees our work will exceed your expectations.

HIGH-RISE WINDOW CLEANING

FALL PROTECTION

CONCRETE REPAIR & RESTORATION

POWER WASHING & WATERPROOFING

GLASS WINDOW REPLACEMENT

FISP SAFETY INSPECTIONS

 


Why Choose Thompson

Our core values lies in exceeding expectations for our clients, with a focus on accurate quotes, quality work, and the overall positive customer experience. 

Our Expertise

Our 10+ years expertise in this industry guarantees our work will exceed your expectations.

Accurate Quotes

We meet with your team for a quick walkthrough to determine options available within your budget.

Customer Care

We are confident that our customer experience will always be top-notch.

Contact Us:

LET’S CHAT!   (732) 997-8138

 

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Don’t let a natural disaster catch your community off guard! Take charge and be prepared!

Don’t let a natural disaster catch your community off guard! Take charge and be prepared!

  • Posted: Jun 19, 2024
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The coastal Northeast is experiencing a concerning trend of heating at a faster rate compared to other regions in North America. Researchers have identified a strong correlation between the accelerated warming and the rapidly increasing temperatures in the North Atlantic Ocean and increasing storm intensity. Natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes and coastal flooding can strike at any moment, leaving communities devastated and in need of immediate assistance. It is crucial for communities to be prepared in order to minimize the impact of these disasters and ensure the safety of their residents.

Preparing your community for a natural disaster is crucial to minimize damage, save lives, and facilitate a swift recovery. Here are a few steps to assist with your preparation:

Assessment and Planning:

  • Identify the types of natural disasters that are common in your area, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, wildfires, or tornadoes.
  • Conduct a thorough risk assessment to understand the potential impact of these disasters on infrastructure, buildings, and residents.
  • Collaborate with professionals to create a comprehensive disaster preparedness plan.
  • Make sure that the community has backed up records of their site plans, architectural and structural drawings, as this can greatly assist in the post disaster assessment and recovery process.

Initial building evaluation performed based on the severity of the storm/event:

  • The degree of safety & habitability of the subject building is not always obvious. If there is any doubt or question that there may be structural or building envelope damage to a building, call you Professional Engineer or Architect and have an evaluation performed.
  • In some instances, you may be required by your local municipality to have your professional assist with stabilizing the structure before parties can enter the structure to collect personal belonging that may remain.

Communication and Engagement:

  • Establish a reliable communication system to disseminate information before, during, and after a disaster. This can include email, social media, or text alerts.
  • Designate community leaders or volunteers responsible for communicating updates and instructions.

Contact Insurance:

  • It can take a while to get adjusters to scene following an event. Be sure to take before, during and after photos of any damage that occurred.

Post-Disaster Recovery:

  • Establish a recovery plan that includes damage assessment, debris removal, and restoration of essential services.
  • Plans and specifications may be required to repair or reconstruct the building, depending on severity.
  • Code requirements can impact the work based on if it is classified as repair vs reconstruction. This needs to be carefully reviewed and considered as insurance carriers may try to exclude some of the necessary work, so the Architect or Engineer needs to be well versed on preparing plans for this type of work.

Remember, disaster preparedness is an ongoing effort. Regularly review and update your plans based on new information, changing community demographics, and emerging technologies. By taking proactive steps, you can help your community minimize the impact of natural disasters and ensure a more resilient future.

Contact our team for more information how to be proactive! 

The Falcon Group
Miami
15405 NW 7th Avenue in Miami, FL 33169
ph: 305.663.1970 x509
info@falconengineering.com
WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA
5651 Corporate Way, Suite 4, West Palm Beach, Florida 33407
Phone: 561-290-0504
info@falconengineering.com
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Building Envelope & Façade Inspections

Building Envelope & Façade Inspections

  • Posted: May 15, 2024
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Building Envelope & Façade Inspections

Our structural engineers will design, plan and execute your project, tailored to suit each individual’s specific needs and budgets. Our engineers will inspect all materials used to ensure the strength and stability of your structure from low-, mid-, to high-rise structures and facilities. Falcon’s engineers pride themselves on ensuring the services and recommendations provided to each of our clients are held at the desired level of individualized care and attention.

  • High Rise & Mid Rise Façade Inspections & Repair/Restoration/Replacement

  • Stucco & Exterior Insulation Finish Systems (EIFS) Evaluations & Repair

  • Mid Rise & Low Rise Siding Inspections & Repair Replacement

  • Roof Inspections & Repair/Replacement

  • Water Infiltration Investigation & Remediation

  • Window & Door Replacement Design

  • Balcony & Deck Repair/Restoration/Replacement

  • Foundation Inspections & Waterproofing

  • Parking Garage Inspections & Repair/Restoration

  • Firewall / Fire Separation Assembly Inspections & Remediation

Tampa Bay

1211 1st Avenue, N.
Suite 300
St. Petersburg, FL 33705

P (813) 438-3568

/one_third]

West Palm Beach

5651 Corporate Way
Suite 4
West Palm Beach, FL 33407

P (561) 290-0504

Miami

15405 NW 7th Avenue
Miami, FL 33169

P (305) 663-1970

The Falcon Group

Engineering Architecture Energy Consultants Specialists

An industry-leader providing professional, cost effective and innovative architectural and engineering designs, solutions and services through the use of highly qualified staff and outstanding customer service.

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Find everything you need to know about Florida Building Inspections SB-4D

Find everything you need to know about Florida Building Inspections SB-4D

  • Posted: Apr 17, 2024
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Florida Condo Building Inspections (SB4d)

http://FLBuildingInspections.com  (a division of SFPMA)

Find everything you need to know about Florida Building Inspections SB-4D

It’s a confusing time for everyone affected, and we can all use some extra clarity. Our experts dove through the 88 page document and outline what you need to know about SB-4D so you can focus on making your building safer instead of deciphering the wordy documents.

Florida state legislature took swift action to implement inspection reform to mitigate the risk of a similar tragedy in the future. As of May 27th, 2022, Florida passed several laws to keep building safer in the state by requiring specific inspections and funding mechanisms. These new Florida condo laws mean significant changes for building owners across Florida, all within a relatively short time.

 

The State of Florida Property Management Association with Legal & Engineering Members are here to help you understand the new laws and how to take the correct action now to ensure you are in full compliance.

When you need your condo inspection contact us!

 


More about Florida Building Inspections:

Our Building Services Division, With the addition of the new Law, (SB4D) We have had many calls, emails and messages sent to SFPMA. There are so many with questions, many are still asking what can they do? How do we go about doing these inspections! We are Bringing this information to Boards, Owners and Management Professionals throughout Florida.

Condos need to take action for Registration before January 2023. Next is Inspections by an Engineer or Architect along with Mandatory Reserve Funding.

SFPMA and our Members will provide information to make these new legal requirements easier to understand and learning through the articles re: Legal, Maintenance, Engineering, Services to name a few.

 

Florida Condo Building Inspections (SB4d)

Milestone Inspections

Structural Integrity Reserve Studies

Mandatory Reserves

 

 


On our website and social media we have pages where we post daily with updates, Laws and the Top Companies/Members who are ready to inspect your buildings.

Please like and follow our New Division and Pages,  In time these pages will have the information, New Articles and Contact forms where Boards and Managers can fill out and sfpma will forward these to the Engineers  Members for Inspections.  remember to send articles and other for the new areas,  membership@sfpma.com

as we move into the new year, there will bring many condo changes that buildings, boards and managers will need to comply, SFPMA and our Members are here to guide you and bring you the steps, legal and inspections brought to you by the engineering members.


Our Website:

Florida Condo Building Inspections (SB4d)

http://FLBuildingInspections.com  a division of SFPMA

The State of Florida Property Management Association with Legal & Engineering Members are here to help you understand the new laws and how to take the correct action now to ensure you are in full compliance.


LinkedIn:

Florida Condo Building Inspections

Legal and Service Information for Florida Building Inspections Find the Facts! The information will be posted here from the members of SFPMA and our Management, we want this to be the go to place for all the information for condo Boards ad Owners along with the Management Professionals who need to also know what their buildings need.


Facebook:

@CondoBuildingInspections

 

 

 

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Drones play a major role in structural evaluation and documentation. by SRI Consultants inc.

Drones play a major role in structural evaluation and documentation. by SRI Consultants inc.

  • Posted: Apr 17, 2024
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INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO DRONE IMAGE MGMT FOR STRUCTURAL EVALUATIONS AND DOCUMENTATION

BY: SHIRISH RAJPATHAK, M.S., P.E., S. I. | PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER

 

Drones play a major role in structural evaluation and documentation. A drone survey of a typical building can generate over 100 GB of data, including thousands of images and videos.

Systematically viewing, sharing, and storing drone data is a major challenge. This post explores the best practices for managing a vast amount of collected imagery, including accessing and sharing images on demand across different platforms (computers, tablets, phones).

Who Needs to Document Structural Conditions and Why?

In view of the building collapse in Surfside, FL, and subsequent action by the State legislature (Florida Senate Bill 4D), many stakeholders, namely high-rise building owners, property management companies, building officials, engineers, and insurers, will need to document the existing conditions of structures.

Drones have already proved to be valuable in search and rescue operations, and after hurricanes, earthquakes, and similar natural disasters. They also play a major role in structural evaluation.For consultants, drone surveys help in a detailed and thorough evaluation of structures. They aid in reducing report preparation time, categorizing the type of damage, determining the quantity and location of damage, providing evidence for expert witness testimonials, as well as optimizing project portfolio, marketing, and advertising. For property owners, they can be important in justifying maintenance and repair expenses and supporting insurance claims. Even contractors can benefit, from documenting pre-construction conditions and construction progress to providing as-built documentation (rebar, PT cables, utility piping layout in slab before concrete pour) and defending legal actions.A drone survey of a typical building can generate over 100 GB (Gigabyte) of data including thousands of images and videos. Systematically viewing, sharing, and storing this data is a major challenge.

This paper will discuss the pros and cons of video versus high-definition still images, how to manage a vast amount of collected imagery, and how to view and share images on demand using different platforms (computers, tablets, or phones).

Video Vs. High-Resolution Still Images

Capturing images using drones is an art! Besides flying skills and knowledge of drones, a drone operator should have good knowledge of photography and videography. The quality of video recording is subject to the type of camera shutter (electronic vs mechanical), frame rate, camera steadiness, and smoothness of panning. Video images tend to be of lower resolution than still images, and they have more compression noise. Also, electronic shutters often produce distortion called rolling shutter. This is also known as “The Jello Effect”

Therefore, video recording may be convenient but not very practical for capturing details. During video recording, the drone is moving continuously. In any given video, one must watch the entire footage to pinpoint a location of interest; and there are often several videos of each structure to watch. This requires tedious time-tagging by someone who is both familiar with the structure and good at problem identification. In reality, videos are best suited for real estate professionals to highlight structures in relation to their surroundings for prospective buyers.

It is important to stress that the flight time of all drones is limited by battery life. Thus, it is critical that each flight is well planned and executed to acquire the maximum information possible.

Many drones today have the built-in capability of producing panoramas from a collection of high-resolution still images, captured while rotating a drone 360 degrees. Each image also contains data such as ISO, exposure, GPS coordinates, and altitude

This information is useful in building a database with powerful indexing functions that link to a visual map and allow users to access any image quickly. Also, still images tend to be of much higher resolution (most drones allow the storing of raw images which are typically 2-3 times larger in file size compared to typical JPEG format). Most importantly, images can be stored on the cloud and accessed via a simple interface.

Regardless of who needs information and for what purpose, information is only good if it is made available when needed. That said, not all consultants conducting structural evaluations need to be certified drone operators. A qualified drone operator can perform a survey with detailed instructions from an engineer, saving time and expense.

Innovative Image Management System

As explained before, still images have the unique advantage of being easy to index. Innovative image management systems automatically catalog drone data as illustrated in the example below. Figure 3 shows a sample site located on the intercoastal waters in South Florida.

The site was imaged with a drone on two consecutive days. Figures 4 and 5 show the locations of the drone flights.

At each of the locations, a drone was flown to various heights, and at each height, a panorama was captured. A drone is always oriented towards the structure to lock in the exposure of the camera. This avoids wash-out or darkening of the subject. To access a panorama at a specific height, one clicks on any blue tag and selects the height from the pop-up table (Figure below).

Two side-by-side photos of client site by drone with blue markers indicating locations where images were acquired

This opens a panorama at the chosen height in an adjacent window (Figure 5 b). After clicking to load the panorama, the user is free to move around, 360 degrees. This allows the user to examine a point of interest in the structure or in the surrounding area. A user can also zoom in or view the structure in full screen. At this point, the user has the choice of capturing the screen or checking the hot spot checkbox at the bottom of the window, which displays hot spots as red circles. These red circles are pointers to the actual drone images stored in the cloud.

Clicking on any of the hot spots activates a pop-up window asking the user to either view the actual image in a new window or download a high-resolution image to their device

Read the rest of this Article, Learn how Drones are used for your Buildings Inspections and Documentation.
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Get answers to these questions and more on our new “AI for Building Safety” website… where we’re using AI to help answer questions about Florida’s condo safety law.

Get answers to these questions and more on our new “AI for Building Safety” website… where we’re using AI to help answer questions about Florida’s condo safety law.

  • Posted: Apr 17, 2024
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Get answers to these questions and more on our new “AI for Building Safety” website… where we’re using AI to help answer questions about Florida’s condo safety law.

SRI Consultants…..can help with the questions you may have with the Florida Law SB-4D ( Condo Building Inspections ) 

SRI logo

OUR NEW AI TOOL ANSWERS ALL OF YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT FLORIDA’S BUILDING SAFETY LAW SB-4D

SRI’s new, experimental website uses AI to help answer questions about Florida’s new building safety law. Do you have questions about milestone inspections? Structural assessment deadlines? Reserves? We’ve got the answers!

 

Ask our AI about 4D

Do you have questions about Florida’s building safety legislation, Senate Bill 4D? Just enter your query in the textbox below and click “Send Query”. For example, try asking, “What is the Florida Senate Bill 4D?”. This AI tool is experimental and provides no warranties regarding the accuracy of its results. Use at your own risk.

Visit SRI’s NEW AI Page 

 


Who is: SRI Consultants.

Here at SRI Consultants, Inc., we take pride in what we do. The extra effort and attention to detail put forth by our team ensure you receive the highest quality services available to the industry, all while saving you time and money. Coastal areas like South Florida have a unique need for concrete rehabilitation and protection services predominantly related to assessing structural damage. Our team has specialists in structural engineering, civil engineering, and corrosion engineering at your disposal.

Round transparent logo with black perimeter and clipboard in center representing Milestone Inspections services

MILESONE INSPECTIONS

Compliance + Safety. Our milestone inspections mitigate the risks of building failure from structural or electrical deficiencies. Focused on occupant safety, inspections are conducted with strict adherence to county and local requirements.

Round transparent logo with black perimeter and suspension bridge in center representing Engineering services

ENGINEERING

Technical Expertise. We are experts in our field with certifications from NACE and FL Board of Professional Engineers. Our team offers civil, structural and corrosion engineering services for single & multi-story structures, condos, hotel and motels, cooling towers and seawalls.

Above are just a few of the services we provide. visit our website to learn more…

Members of SFPMA – Engineers 

 

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ROUTINE INSPECTON IS THE FOUNDATION UPON WHICH ALL GREAT MAINTENANCE PLANS ARE BUILT.

ROUTINE INSPECTON IS THE FOUNDATION UPON WHICH ALL GREAT MAINTENANCE PLANS ARE BUILT.

  • Posted: Mar 27, 2024
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Managers here is a maintenance checklist to get the ball rolling? We’ve created just the one to help you identify problem areas before they reach critical status.

Preventive Maintenance is Key, A good manager should get out of the Office and walk the property, get your hands dirty, take action on any problem or the start of a problem you see. This way you will not have a major problem later.

SRI Consultants has come up with a great checklist for you to use. DL it below.

Sign up for your FREE 3-page property maintenance checklist now http://ow.ly/M7YV50IITeO
And make sure to reach out when you require detailed inspections and repair recommendations by a licensed engineer (Hint: 30-40-50-year surveys). We look forward to your call!

Ask our AI about 4D

Do you have questions about Florida’s building safety legislation, Senate Bill 4D? Just enter your query in the textbox  and click “Send Query”. For example, try asking, “What is the Florida Senate Bill 4D?”. This AI tool is experimental and provides no warranties regarding the accuracy of its results. Use at your own risk.

AI gets smarter with every Q&A asked.  it will take time to have every query become available. Try it out. 

This AI tool is experimental and provides no warranties regarding the accuracy of its results. Use at your own risk.
Contact SRI Consultants at office@sriconsultants.net or call (561) 372-1290

 

 

 

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Maximizing the value and life cycle of a building requires continuously maintaining performance and improving energy efficiency Learn how Rimkus can help with your Building Inspections & Repair.

Maximizing the value and life cycle of a building requires continuously maintaining performance and improving energy efficiency Learn how Rimkus can help with your Building Inspections & Repair.

  • Posted: Mar 13, 2024
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Building Envelope Services

Maximizing the value and life cycle of a building requires continuously maintaining performance and improving energy efficiency Learn how Rimkus can help with your Building Inspections & Repair.

From the design of new buildings to the construction materials and technologies used to repair and maintain existing structures, we are uniquely qualified to provide a full range of global building envelope consulting services to help prevent and eliminate problems.

Performance for the Life Cycle of Your Project

Committed to utilizing sustainable materials and methods as applicable, we proactively address performance issues to improve the way buildings are constructed and maintained.

 

View our building envelope services:

  • Building Envelope Assessments
  • Façade Inspections
  • Façade Restoration
  • Historic Preservation
  • Pavement Engineering
  • Roof Consulting
  • Waterproofing and Weatherproofing Assessments and Design

 

Building Envelope Assessments

The Rimkus Built Environment Solutions team can provide a complete assessment of a structure’s building envelope (façades, roofs, windows, balconies, walkways, parking areas, etc.) describing the condition of such and all items in need of repair. A recommended timeline and a projected construction cost will also be provided to assist the owner in projecting future budgets. For a full survey of all building components, Rimkus can increase the scope of the survey and provide a full Property Condition Assessment (PCA) including mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, elevators, and interiors. Building envelope assessments and PCAs are typically provided with 5- or 10-year projections; however, they may be customized to the client’s needs. These reports can be utilized as a tool to help create capital expenditure budgets and establish maintenance schedules.

Contract Administration

Retaining Rimkus to handle your Contract Administration services on your roof construction projects will provide you with seasoned professionals who know how to control costs and long term outcomes. You will experience greatly improved transparency and accountability from your contractors and you will also be far more likely to maintain critical schedules, budgets, and deadlines on your projects. Rimkus achieves these benefits by maintaining a free flow of information between the Contractor and Owner. Our services also include payment certification and preparation of change orders for any additional work that may be encountered during the course of the project. We strive to protect our clients by confirming that the solutions you invest in meet all of your roofing and building portfolio needs. At Rimkus, you will find a level of personal attention on every project that is unmatched by any of our competitors. Trust in our veteran team, state-of-the-art technology, and our decades of experience in the industry. We offer:

  • Contract Administration
  • Schedule, budget, and deadline maintenance
  • Minimization of building occupant disruptions
  • Payment certification
  • Preparation of change orders
  • Review of shop drawings / material submissions

 

Diagnostic Testing

To properly assess the condition of your roof we need to determine its composition, quality, and moisture content. At Rimkus, we can accurately assess each of those factors with our Destructive and Non-Destructive Testing protocols. It is one of the steps taken during your Roof Condition Analysis and a necessary tool in projecting the life expectancy and long-term costs of your roof. We can also use the results to save you money by identifying problems before they become catastrophic. We strive to protect our clients by confirming that the solutions you invest in meet all of your roofing and building portfolio needs. At Rimkus, you will find a level of personal attention on every project that is unmatched by any of our competitors. You can place your trust in our veteran team, state-of-the-art technology, and our decades of experience in the industry.

We offer a variety of diagnostic testing methods:

  • Infrared thermography
  • Tramex moisture meter
  • Electrical Field Vector Mapping (EFVM)
  • Core cut testing
  • Delmhorst Probe

 

Façade Inspections

When façade elements fail, components could fall, thereby putting people and property at risk. As a response to this, many cities have passed façade ordinances to identify unsafe conditions, such as loose façade components or materials that may fall and cause damage to property or injury to pedestrians. At Rimkus, we provide professional building inspections supported by recommendations and design for proactive maintenance and repair programs. Façade inspections typically fall into one of the following categories:

  • Safe: Requires no attention
  • Safe with a Repair and Maintenance Program: Requires repairs or maintenance within a time period designated by the professional in order to prevent deterioration into an unsafe condition
  • Unsafe: Has no reliable means of structural support and is dangerous to persons or property. Requires prompt remedial action.

Conducting Inspections Inspection requirements range from visual inspection of street-facing façades by architects, engineers, or contractors, to “hands-on inspections” that require licensed engineers or architects to physically touch façade components for each elevation of the building along the entire height of each elevation. Typically, inspections are required for buildings over five stories, with inspection frequencies ranging from two to five years. Our experts are well versed in façade condition assessments and have the experience and knowledge needed to identify repair details as well as oversee the completion of the repairs on behalf of the property owner.

Façade Restoration

The appurtenances of a façade (balconies, fire escapes, etc.) often deteriorate faster than the façade itself and therefore require particular attention and, often, increased maintenance. Repairs to these elements should be addressed in a manner that will prolong the useful life of the appurtenance as well as the repairs performed. The Rimkus Building Envelope team can assist in all phases of façade restoration. We are well versed in façade restoration, with a long track record of success on projects varying from low-rise commercial and residential buildings to luxury high-rise towers. The façade, while best known for its aesthetic, also provides structural support for a building and vertical weatherproofing for its interior spaces. All three of these components should be analyzed during façade restoration. Performing a thorough analysis of the building’s façade prior to design, Rimkus provides a detailed list of findings and recommendations for immediate repairs as well as preventative maintenance to completely address façade functions. At Rimkus, we believe that the key to a successful façade restoration project often occurs before the contractor arrives on-site. A thorough and detailed pre-construction effort, including preliminary investigation, preparation of contract documents, bid process and review, pre-construction meeting(s), and review of all mock-ups and submittals, will often eliminate unnecessary costs and construction delays.

Historic Preservation

Rimkus has had the distinct pleasure of working on numerous historic and landmark structures, including both high-rise and low-rise office buildings as well as a number of ornate residential buildings. Exhaustive research, early coordination with all governing agencies, and involvement of qualified experienced professionals are all essential components in the preservation of these delicate historic structures. When analyzing and repairing the building envelope of historic structures a conservationist perspective is preferable, full-scale repair or replacement is not always best. Thorough documentation of existing conditions including sketches, photographs, and cataloging of deteriorated elements is imperative to the restoration process. The use of new technologies to eliminate unnecessary probes and demolition is advisable. By incorporating the use of laser scanning, Rimkus can achieve an unprecedented level of detail and accuracy during the design phase often without the need for hands-on visual inspections. In addition to providing thorough contract documents; these laser scans will allow for the creation of 3D models of decorative stone units for shop drawings and mold casting.

Leak Investigations

Rimkus offers a thorough approach to leak investigations, recognizing that a successful investigation requires pursuing all possible sources of water infiltration. With years of experience, Rimkus understands that there may be multiple factors contributing to a leak. Rimkus offers a range of services to assist in determining the source(s) of water infiltration, including hands-on and visual inspections, non-destructive testing techniques, and more traditional methods of probes and water tests. Our non-destructive testing techniques include the use of infrared imaging to identify thermal anomalies and moisture-compromised insulation, the use of roof and wall moisture scanners and moisture meters to perform impedance testing and identify the relative moisture content of the material, and electronic leak detection (electric field vector mapping) to identify the precise location of water infiltration.

Roof Condition Assessments

Rimkus recommends a roof condition assessment to better understand the life expectancy of a roof and to address an immediate concern. The result is a promptly delivered roof analysis outlining the strengths and weaknesses of the existing roof system. Our findings are put into a clear and legible report that includes photo evidence, illustrations, and a colored AutoCAD roof plan. We believe that a high level of clarity and transparency is crucial to help our clients make informed decisions. Many of our technicians are RCI Inc., RRC, and RRO certified. Our emergency leak responders can diagnose numerous problems on the spot and expedite the remediation strategy. Capital planning is also an important component that we provide as part this process. We believe it is important to provide our clients with a strategy for future investments and expenditures to meet both the short and long-term budget plans.

Waterproofing and Weatherproofing Assessments and Design

Rimkus assists in the evaluation of existing roofing/waterproofing systems, as well as the design and construction administration of the repair or replacement, of all roofing/waterproofing systems including:

  • Single Ply (Thermoset and Thermoplastic) Systems
  • Modified Bitumen Roof Systems
  • Fluid-Applied Liquid Membranes
  • Vegetative/Green Roofs
  • Balcony Waterproofing
  • Below-Grade and Sidewalk Vault Waterproofing

Similar to most aspects of construction one size, does not fit all with respect to roofing and waterproofing systems. Several factors determine the appropriate system for a particular building, including:

  • Building Code Regulations
  • Requirements of Owner’s Insurance Provider
  • Climate and Wind/Weather Exposure
  • Frequency and Type of Foot Traffic
  • Intended Use (of Roof Surface and Interior Space Below)
  • Mechanical Equipment and Exhaust Units
  • Overall Size
  • Roof Slope
  • Desired Life Expectancy
  • Owner’s Budget
  • Number of Penetrations
  • Roof Deck Composition

Several commonly overlooked processes can be established during the installation of a new roof that will help reduce the cost of future maintenance and extend the service life of the roof system:

Leak detection systems can be installed in most roof systems to use as a quality assurance tool and to allow for easy identification of future leaks. This is particularly important in roofs with an overburden (i.e., inverted roof systems and vegetative roofs). A custom-tailored roof inspection and maintenance schedule should be provided for the owner’s use in prolonging the useful life of the roof system and minimizing the risk of leaks resulting from roof damage.

General Contact Information

 


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Budget preparation time is upon us! We strongly encourage, that every year around this time, association managers and Boards review and ensure that your capital reserve study is accurate and up-to-date.

Budget preparation time is upon us! We strongly encourage, that every year around this time, association managers and Boards review and ensure that your capital reserve study is accurate and up-to-date.

  • Posted: Mar 13, 2024
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Budget preparation time is upon us! We strongly encourage, that every year around this time, association managers and Boards review and ensure that your capital reserve study is accurate and up-to-date.

This is one of the most important decisions a board will make for the future of their association. It is an easy and effective way to ensure your community’s capital replacement items are being properly funded with minimal impact on the individual homeowners. 

With the recent update to the Capital Reserve Study Standards, the impact of inflation and supply chain issues over the past few years (in some cases resulting in costs as much as 50% higher for some typical components), it is even more critical to have an updated reserve study to ensure the financial health of your community.

To stay on track for a healthy financial future, it is recommended that your Reserve Study be updated every three (3) years.

The Falcon Group Capital Reserves team consists of 6 CAI Certified Reserve Specialists (RS) as well as a Professional Reserve Analyst (PRA) designation awarded by the Association of Professional Analysts.

Contact our Reserve Specialists today for a new or updated reserve study!

 

Contact Us:

Tampa Bay

1211 1st Avenue, N.
Suite 106
St. Petersburg, FL 33705

P (813) 438-3568

West Palm Beach

5651 Corporate Way
Suite 4
West Palm Beach, FL 33407

P (561) 290-0504

Miami

15405 NW 7th Avenue
Miami, FL 33169

P (305) 663-1970


Capital Reserve Study ( what is involved )

The primary purpose of a Reserve Study is to offer recommendations as to the amount of money a community, building or other organization should set aside on a yearly basis for the future replacement or major refurbishment of their commonly owned elements.

The Falcon Group believes that a properly funded capital reserve program is the right formula for keeping a community’s physical assets in prime condition while providing some key benefits to residents. We strongly recommend updating your Capital Reserve Study Every 3 years.

A regularly updated Reserve Study can provide the following benefits:

  • Maintaining and/or increasing property values by maintaining exterior appearances through timely repair or replacement of common elements.
  • Facilitating project efficiency and cost effectiveness, as well as, minimizing disruptions and unit owner inconvenience by allowing the association to secure contractors to complete an entire project during a finite and desired schedule.
  • Reducing the likelihood of member dissatisfaction associated with the passage of large or sudden assessments.

All of our Capital Reserve Studies are prepared under the direction of a Reserve Specialist (RS) and/or a Professional Reserve Analyst (PRA).

The Falcon Group has prepared over 3,500 Capital Reserve Studies. Each Capital Reserve Study we perform is a customized analysis, prepared in coordination with our Reserve Specialist (RS) and our client, and is based on a “real-world” methodology for each item in regards to:

  • Inspection

  • Evaluation for repair or replacement

  • Evaluation for anticipated “Useful Life”

  • Integrated into a repair or replacement plan and budget

 

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We’re using AI to answer all your questions about Florida’s condo safety law SB-4D.

We’re using AI to answer all your questions about Florida’s condo safety law SB-4D.

  • Posted: Feb 26, 2024
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We’re using AI to answer all your questions about Florida’s condo safety law SB-4D.
+ What are the components of a structural integrity reserve study?
+ What is substantial structural deterioration?
+ Can my community waive reserves?
+ Do requirements per SB-4D apply to parking garages?
Get answers to these questions and more on our “AI for Building Safety” webpage. Check it out!

Ask our AI about 4D

Do you have questions about Florida’s building safety legislation, Senate Bill 4D? Just enter your query in the textbox below and click “Send Query”. For example, try asking, “What is the Florida Senate Bill 4D?”. This AI tool is experimental and provides no warranties regarding the accuracy of its results. Use at your own risk.

 

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Now is the perfect time to start planning for the upcoming construction season!

Now is the perfect time to start planning for the upcoming construction season!

  • Posted: Jan 26, 2024
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Now is the perfect time to start planning for the upcoming construction season!

At Falcon, we understand the challenges communities face when it comes to site improvements. That’s why we offer comprehensive engineering services to help you tackle these projects effectively.
Contact us today for a free consultation and proposal and let us help you transform your community into a better place to live.

Are you tired of the deteriorating condition of the roadways in your community?

Is drainage becoming a major concern during heavy rains?

Are the retaining walls in your neighborhood showing signs of wear and tear?

If so, it’s time to take action! 


Planning and executing site improvement projects can be a complex process. From roadway resurfacing to tennis court replacement, these projects require careful planning and development.

Now is the perfect time to start planning for the upcoming construction season.

At Falcon, we understand the challenges communities face when it comes to site improvements. That’s why we offer comprehensive engineering services to help you tackle these projects effectively.

Our team can assist you with feasibility studies, design plans, construction documents, bidding, and even construction management services.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take advantage of the construction off-season to plan your site improvement project.

Contact us today for a free consultation and proposal and let us help you transform your community into a better place to live.

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