Broward County took a critical step forward on Aug. 14, 2025, when the Board of Rules and Appeals (BORA) voted to repeal the restriction on remote virtual inspections (RVIs) on building permit-related projects. This decision amends Chapter 1, Section 110.3.13 of the Florida Building Code, Broward County Administrative Provisions, marking a significant shift in the county’s approach to building safety and efficiency.
RVIs use video conferencing and digital tools to allow inspectors to examine properties remotely. This technology enables real-time communication between inspectors and onsite personnel, facilitating thorough examinations without physical presence. Contractors or property owners use smartphones or tablets to guide inspectors through the site, focusing on specific areas as directed. This streamlined process significantly reduces permit-closure wait times, accelerating construction projects and development across the county.
Ian Cohen is president and COO at Inspected. (courtesy, Ian Cohen)
Compared to elsewhere in Florida, Broward’s acceptance of RVIs came late due to a combination of factors, including concerns about the reliability of new technology and the need for extensive policy changes. However, the increasing pressure from population growth and the success of RVIs in neighboring counties ultimately pushed Broward to embrace this innovative solution.
The current housing boom in South Florida further emphasizes the need for RVIs. By expediting the inspection process for new housing while maintaining rigorous safety standards, RVIs can help Broward County balance rapid development with thorough oversight.
The benefits of RVIs in a rapidly growing community are substantial. I serve as chief operating officer for Inspected, a remote virtual inspection platform for construction and renovation professionals. Since Jan. 1, 2024, more than 100,000 inspections across Florida have been conducted through our RVI platform, Permit Hub. It uses high-definition video streaming, inspection checklists, geo-tagging, and access to approved plans to ensure thorough and code-compliant inspections.
The impact of RVIs on construction timelines is significant. For example, RVIs helped Holiday Builders slash new home construction cycle time from 353 days to 130 days in their South West Florida Division — a reduction of 223 days or over 7 months.
Safety sees enhancement through virtual methods as well. The ease and speed of RVIs allow for more frequent checks, catching potential issues earlier. This technology also improves documentation, creating digital records that are easily accessible and searchable.
To address concerns about inspection fraud, such as the incidents at Pier 66, it’s important to note that RVIs can actually reduce the likelihood of such crimes that have occurred with traditional inspections. The digital nature of these inspections creates a clear audit trail, with recorded video and detailed documentation. This increased transparency and accountability make it more difficult for fraudulent activities to go undetected.
The Florida Legislature has written the use of RVIs into law, recognizing their value in keeping up with the state’s rapid growth and modernizing the inspection process. The International Code Council (ICC) has endorsed the use of RVIs, providing national validation for this approach. Surrounding counties, including Miami-Dade and Palm Beach, had already adopted RVIs within their own building departments and have seen great success with improved efficiency and customer satisfaction.
To implement RVIs effectively, Broward County must invest in robust, user-friendly technology platforms, provide comprehensive training for inspectors, and educate contractors and property owners on the new process. Clear guidelines, training and the ability to also work with private providers to reduce the extensive backlog in Broward County are critical to make this a success.
With this decision, Broward County has positioned itself at the forefront of construction technology, promising a brighter, more efficient future for its residents and businesses. The adoption of RVIs as a growth management tool offers a path to maintain and improve building safety standards while accommodating the area’s rapid expansion. Business leaders and residents should embrace this modernization, recognizing its potential to enhance community well-being and sustainable growth.
Ian Cohen is president and COO at Plantation-based Inspected, a company specializing in remote inspection platforms for construction and renovation.
