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.

→ See our glossary details

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 and time-sensitive work

When equipment fails and has to be replaced right away, the inspection should not be the thing holding up closeout. A virtual inspection removes the scheduling step entirely, so the work can be reviewed the same day it is submitted.

Building Official's Authority (Section 7)

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