Which law, here as everywhere
The reserve rules are state law and apply the same way in Palm Beach as in the rest of Florida. A homeowners' association under chapter 720 has reserves only if its declaration or its members create them. A condominium under chapter 718 must budget reserves, and each building three habitable stories or higher needs a SIRS at least every 10 years.
For a Palm Beach board
- Cities such as Boca Raton and West Palm Beach run their own building departments. Check which one sends your letter before you set dates.
- Older three-story communities often have several identical buildings. Ask firms to price the SIRS per building and in total.
- If a milestone inspection is due within two years, ask whether one site visit can serve both.
Typical fees
| Community size | Typical fee | What it usually covers |
|---|---|---|
| Under 50 homes or units | $1,500 to $5,000 | One pool or clubhouse at most, short private roads |
| 50 to 150 | $2,000 to $8,000 | Gate, amenity center, some paving and drainage |
| 150 to 300 | $5,000 to $20,000+ | Several buildings or a long list of common elements |
| 300 and over | from $10,000 | Master associations and large campuses |
| SIRS, per building | $5,000 to $16,500+ | Condo buildings of three habitable stories or more; coastal towers run higher |
Typical ranges, rounded. A guide, not a quote.
Firms that name Palm Beach
Firms with an office in the area or that say they cover all of Florida, from their own websites. Not a recommendation.
Wellington
Reserve studies, SIRS, insurance and flood valuations. Works in South and Central Florida.
Coral Gables, West Palm Beach, Orlando
SIRS, milestone inspections. Licensed engineers with three Florida offices.
Orlando
Reserve studies, SIRS. Says it serves all 67 Florida counties.
FPAT (Felten Property Assessment Team)
Safety Harbor
Reserve studies, SIRS, insurance appraisals. Shows CAI and APRA membership on its site.
More on the Florida firms page.