House Bill 695 seeks to enhance the efficiency and flexibility of building inspection services in Florida by modifying the roles of local building officials and private providers. The bill mandates the inclusion of private providers on the Florida Building Code Administrators and Inspectors Board and the Florida Building Commission, while also encouraging the Private Provider Association of Florida to recommend candidates for these positions. It revises operational terms for private providers, allowing agreements instead of written contracts for inspection services and prohibiting local jurisdictions from imposing additional fees for inspections conducted by private providers. The bill also clarifies the responsibilities of local officials and private providers, emphasizing that local officials are not responsible for the regulatory administration of inspections performed by private providers.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for electronic communication, allowing notices and documents to be submitted electronically, and establishes that local building officials must not review plans deemed compliant by private providers. If local officials fail to notify deficiencies within specified timeframes, permits or certificates of occupancy are automatically granted. The bill also creates a board of appeals for disputes regarding building permits and inspections, prohibits local governments from adopting stricter regulations, and mandates transparency by requiring public access to permit and inspection information. Overall, HB 695 aims to streamline the permitting process, enhance accountability, and ensure that private providers are adequately regulated while maintaining compliance with building codes.

Statutes affected:
H 695 Filed: 468.605, 553.74, 553.791