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Florida is in the middle of a construction renaissance— a true golden age of growth . Cranes line skylines, master-planned communities are being stamped across the state, and infrastructure projects are reaching historic highs. But there’s a problem simmering beneath the surface: Permits, inspections, and plan reviews are slowing everything down. 🏛️ 400+ Municipalities. 400+ Different Rules. Florida isn’t like most states. Each municipality has its own way of handling code compliance , from timelines and workflows to documentation and technology use. This creates a maze of inefficiency, missed timelines, and frustrated builders trying to navigate an outdated system. In many cities, building departments are understaffed and overwhelmed , and the backlog is growing. What used to take days now takes weeks—or longer. Delays cost money. In some cases, millions. 🔑 The New Era of Code Compliance What most people don’t realize is that in 2020, Florida passed legislation that finally opened the door to private providers . These state-authorized firms can perform plan reviews and conduct inspections , giving builders a faster, more predictable alternative to city bureaucracy. But here’s the truth: very few builders are taking advantage. Why? Because private providers haven’t modernized. Most still operate like consultants—slow, manual, and paper-based. That’s where we come in. 🚀 Meet Freedom Code Compliance: Florida’s Tech-First Private Provider At Freedom Code Compliance , we’re not just another provider. We’re a platform— a technology company revolutionizing the entire code compliance experience . Our team combines deep regulatory expertise with modern, digital tools to: ✅ Accelerate plan reviews, permitting, inspections ✅ Streamline communication between cities, builders, and engineers ✅ Standardize compliance processes across counties ✅ Leverage AI and automation to reduce manual errors With over 100,000 licensed contractors  in Florida and billions in construction value waiting on approvals, Freedom is positioned to become the go-to infrastructure layer for how Florida builds. 📈 Why This Matters Now We’re just four years into this new law. Most contractors don’t even realize they have the option of using a private provider. At the same time: Florida is the fastest-growing construction market in the U.S. Cities are struggling to keep up Demand for smarter, tech-enabled compliance is surging This is the moment to move fast. 🌐 The Vision Our mission is simple: To unlock Florida’s construction economy by eliminating code compliance delays—forever. From virtual inspections to automated plan routing, we’re building the rails that keep Florida’s building boom moving at the speed of demand. 🤝 Partner With Us Are you a builder tired of waiting on paperwork? An investor looking to be part of the next major proptech breakout? A city exploring public-private partnerships? We’re ready. Let’s modernize Florida together.

If you own a construction business in Florida, you know how frustrating it can be dealing with slow permits, red tape, and local government delays. But a new law— HB 683 , signed by the Governor in June 2025—is shaking things up in a big way. And yes, it’s good news for YOU. Here’s what you really need to know:  Faster Permits. Fewer Headaches. Under the new law , local governments now have 5 business days  to process certain residential, single-trade permits - like electrical, mechanical, roofing, or solar. This means no more waiting around for weeks on a small job because the city’s backed up. Private Providers = More Options for Your Construction Business The law gives you the power to hire private providers  (like Freedom Code Compliance ) to handle your plan reviews , inspections , and full service permit expediting .  We can now offer: ✅ Same-Day Virtual Inspections  ✅ Fast Plan Reviews  ✅ Full Service Permit Expediting Bottom line: You get construction projects done faster, with less hassle, and stay on your timeline. Real Cost Savings The law also encourages local governments to adjust permitting fees  based on how fast they process your permits—or whether you use a private provider instead. So you might actually start seeing some savings when you skip the city backlog and go private. Change Orders? They’ve Got a Deadline Now Ever submitted a change order and had it sit on someone’s desk forever? Now local governments have 30 days to approve or deny  your change request—or it’s automatically approved. This means fewer project delays, and better control of your schedule and budget. Why This Matters Your business runs on time, money, and reputation. HB 683  gives you tools to control all three: Speed  – No more waiting on slow permits and inspections Options  – Hire private providers who work on YOUR timeline Savings  – Lower fees and fewer delays save you money Control  – Change orders handled faster means fewer surprises How Freedom Code Compliance Can Help We’re here to help you take full advantage of these changes. Whether it’s plan reviews , inspections , or full-service permit expediting , we’re your partner in cutting through the red tape—and keeping your projects moving. Want to know how this new law can work for you? 👉 Reach out today and let’s get started. Resources:  HB 683 Bill Summary: https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/683 Final Passed Bill (PDF) : HB 683 https:// www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/683/BillText/er/PDF

In the ever-evolving landscape of construction in Florida, contractors constantly seek methods to streamline their processes, reduce waiting times, and efficiently navigate the regulatory environment. A significant development in this realm has been the rise of Private Providers – a concept changing how permits and inspections are handled. But how do they stack up against traditional building departments? This blog aims to shed light on this comparison, helping Florida contractors make informed decisions. Private Providers are licensed private entities authorized to conduct plan reviews and construction inspections, tasks traditionally handled by municipal building departments. Understanding the Basics: What Are Private Providers? Before diving into the comparison, let's establish what Private Providers are. In Florida, Private Providers like Freedom Code Compliance are licensed private entities authorized to conduct plan reviews and construction inspections, tasks traditionally handled by municipal building departments. This dual system offers contractors a choice, but what does each option entail? Speed and Efficiency: Private Providers : They are known for their speed in processing permits and conducting inspections. Since they operate independently of municipal workload, they often offer quicker turnaround times. A Private Provider can bypass the usual plan review line, moving directly to the final review, which can be a game-changer for tight project schedules. Traditional Building Departments : These departments often have more permits to process, leading to longer wait times. The standard review process is sequential and time-consuming, especially during peak construction. Convenience and Flexibility: Private Providers : Offering virtual inspections and online submissions, Private Providers bring a level of convenience and flexibility that’s hard to match. This is particularly advantageous for projects with tight deadlines or contractors managing multiple projects simultaneously. Traditional Building Departments : While many have started to embrace digital submissions and online processes, they may still require in-person inspections and physical paperwork, which can be less convenient compared to the streamlined online options of Private Providers. Expertise and Specialization: Private Providers : Often staffed by experienced industry professionals, Private Providers bring a level of specialization and expertise that can be beneficial, especially for complex projects. Their familiarity with the latest regulations and industry standards can provide added value. Traditional Building Departments : While they also employ qualified professionals, the range of projects they oversee is broader, which might result in less specialization in certain construction areas. Cost Implications: Private Providers : Although they may seem like an added expense, the cost can be offset by the speed and efficiency they bring, potentially reducing overall project timelines and costs associated with delays. Traditional Building Departments : Typically funded through permit fees, their costs are standardized, but the indirect costs of longer waiting times can add up for contractors. Compliance and Legal Considerations: Private Providers and Traditional Building Departments are bound by Florida’s building codes and regulations. However, Private Providers like Freedom Code Compliance might offer an added layer of diligence, given their focused approach. Conclusion: Choosing between a Private Provider and a Traditional Building Department depends on various factors, including project complexity, timeline, and budget. For those seeking speed, convenience, and specialized expertise, Private Providers like Freedom Code Compliance offer a compelling alternative. However, contractors must weigh these benefits against their specific project needs and preferences. Florida’s construction industry is dynamic, and the option of Private Providers like Freedom Code Compliance adds an exciting dimension to this landscape. By understanding the differences and strengths of each option, contractors can make choices that best align with their project goals.

A Testament to the Efficiency of Private Provider Services In the fast-paced world of construction, time is often of the essence. Delays can cost money, and the efficiency of getting permits can make or break a project’s timeline and budget. This is where Freedom Code Compliance  shines with its reliable and swift Private Provider services, exemplified in our recent success story from Hillsborough County. The Success Story On September 9th, at precisely 4:54 PM, a diligent pool contractor entrusted their project to our team at Freedom Code Compliance  for Plan Review and Inspections. The project was swiftly taken up, and by the next morning at 11:48 AM, we had completed the plan review and issued their plans, stamped by a licensed plans examiner for code compliance. This expedited process allowed the contractor to complete their Hillsborough County permit application by September 12th. By September 16th, they received their issued permit and were ready to begin work and receive Virtual Inspections from our esteemed Private Provider Inspection Team. Why Choose Freedom Code Compliance? Our story illustrates not just a single success but a consistent capability to navigate the intricacies of permit acquisition with unparalleled speed. The benefits of using a Private Provider like Freedom Code Compliance  are manifold: • Timeliness : Our involvement compels building departments to adhere to stricter timelines, facilitating quicker permit issuance. • Expertise : Our team of experienced providers ensures thorough and efficient plan reviews and inspections, minimizing the usual back and forth with municipal reviews. • Cost Efficiency : Reducing wait times significantly decreases the carrying costs associated with project delays. The Legislative Backbone Underpinning our ability to provide these swift services is the robust framework provided by the Florida Private Provider Statute 553.791. This legislation mandates that once a building department receives a permit application from a contractor using a Private Provider for inspections or plan reviews: • They have only 20 business days to issue the permit or request corrections. • If no notice of deficiencies is communicated by the 21st day, the building department must legally issue the permit. Additionally, once the final inspection is complete and the Private Provider has filed the Inspection Record and Certificate of Compliance: • The building department has only 2 days to close the permit and issue a Certificate of Occupancy for residential permits and 10 days for commercial permits. Conclusion This compelling case study underscores the value and impact of employing Private Provider services in navigating the regulatory landscape. As we look towards the future, with tighter review timelines starting January 1, 2025, the role of Private Providers in ensuring project efficiency will become even more crucial. Are you a contractor tired of delays and inefficiencies in the permit process? Let Freedom Code Compliance  take the load off your shoulders. Call us at 239-994-4100 to discuss how our Private Provider plan reviews and virtual inspection services can expedite your next project and save you money.

The construction landscape in Florida has seen a significant shift with the integration of Private Providers into the building and inspection process. For contractors, understanding the legal framework governing these entities is crucial. Therefore, keep reading to learn more about the role of Private Providers like Freedom Code Compliance. The Role of Private Providers: In Florida, Private Providers are licensed entities that perform plan reviews and virtual inspections – roles traditionally handled by local government building departments. The enactment of FL 553.791 has been a game-changer, offering contractors an alternative route for these crucial steps in the construction process. Key Provisions of FL 553.791: Permit Application Process: The local building department is notified when a contractor opts for a Private Provider. The statute mandates a 20-business-day deadline for the building department to issue the permit or request corrections. If no action is taken within this period, the permit must be issued on the 21st day. Plan Review Responsibility: If a Private Provider conducts the plan review before the permit submission, this responsibility is shifted away from the building department. Consequently, the permit application bypasses the plan review phase in the municipal process, streamlining the permitting. Virtual Inspections and Online Submissions: Many inspections under Private Providers can be conducted virtually or through online submissions of photographs, which accelerates the inspection process. Closing the Permit: After the final inspection and submission of necessary documents by the Private Provider, the building department has limited time to close the permit – 2 days for residential and 10 days for commercial projects. For a detailed understanding of these provisions and the complete legal text, refer to the entire statute on the Florida Senate website. Benefits for Contractors: This legal framework presents several advantages for contractors: Reduced Wait Times: The statutory deadlines can significantly expedite the permitting and inspection processes. Flexibility: The option for virtual inspections and online submissions adds convenience and efficiency. Control Over the Process: Contractors gain more control over the timeline of their projects. Navigating the Legalities: While the benefits are clear, contractors must understand and navigate these legalities proficiently. Ensuring that the chosen Private Provider fully complies with state regulations is essential. Additionally, staying informed about any updates to FL 553.791 and other related statutes is crucial for smooth operations. Conclusion: Integrating Private Providers under FL 553.791 represents a significant evolution in Florida’s construction and building industry. For contractors, this means faster and more efficient processes and requires a thorough understanding of the legal framework. By staying informed and working with compliant and reputable Private Providers, contractors can leverage these regulations to their advantage, ensuring project success and compliance. Florida Senate Website on Private Providers & FL 553.791: https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2020/553.791