Virtual inspections in Broward County are now officially approved, giving contractors and property owners a faster way to move projects forward. Virtual inspections make scheduling easier, provide real-time feedback, and reduce costly delays.

This new permitting process saves time, reduces downtime, and keeps projects on track. Let’s discuss how Broward’s virtual inspections work, which projects qualify, and why this change is a major step forward for permitting in South Florida.

Why Broward Adopted Virtual Inspections

The Broward County Board of Rules and Appeals (BORA) approved virtual inspections to modernize the permitting process. In the past, contractors often had to wait for inspectors to travel to multiple job sites, creating bottlenecks that slowed down projects.

By switching to a digital system, Broward now aligns with statewide practices and gives builders more flexibility. Virtual inspections improve efficiency, reduce travel costs, and allow inspectors to review more projects in less time.

For homeowners and contractors, this means fewer delays and a smoother path to permit approval.

How Virtual Inspections Work

Virtual inspections rely on technology to connect inspectors with contractors or property owners. Instead of showing up in person, inspectors review work through live video, photos, or digital records.

The Process Step by Step

Schedule the Inspection – Contractors book a time that works best for them.
Prepare the Site – The job must be ready, with permits posted and the work completed.
Join the Virtual Session – Using a smartphone or tablet, contractors connect with a certified inspector.
Show the Work – The inspector directs the camera or reviews uploaded images to confirm code compliance.
Receive Feedback – Comments and corrections are given right away.
Approval or Follow-Up – If work passes, approval is issued. If not, a re-inspection is scheduled.

All records are saved digitally, so both the county and the contractor can review the results later.

Projects That Qualify for Virtual Inspections

Not all permits qualify, but many single-trade projects are now approved for virtual inspections in Broward.

Commonly Approved Inspections

Roofing: Reroofing projects under 1,500 square feet
Windows and Doors: Replacement projects that don’t require major structural changes
Plumbing: Water heater replacements without system upgrades, and tunnel replacements for certain pipes
HVAC: Air conditioning replacements and duct repairs
Generators: Installation and replacement checks
Solar Systems: Residential and small-scale solar installations
Pools: Certain stages of pool construction or repair
Single-Family and Multi-Family Units: Minor trade work that does not require a full in-person walkthrough

The Building Official must approve some types of virtual inspections, but the list continues to grow as the program expands.

Benefits of Virtual Inspections

Virtual inspections bring clear advantages to everyone involved in the permitting process.

For Contractors and Property Owners

Quicker Scheduling: No waiting for inspectors to travel between sites.
Real-Time Feedback: Corrections can be addressed right away.
Lower Costs: Fewer delays mean fewer wasted labor hours.
Convenience: Inspections can be scheduled at times that work best for you.
Faster Turnarounds: Many permits can be issued in 5 to 10 business days.

For Inspectors and the County

Higher Efficiency: Inspectors handle more projects each day.
Better Records: Digital documentation is saved and easy to access.
Reduced Travel: Less time spent on the road means more time inspecting.
Improved Transparency: Video and photo records provide clear proof of compliance.

Together, these benefits make Broward’s permitting process faster, more efficient, and more reliable.

Preparing for a Virtual Inspection

To make the process smooth, contractors should be ready before connecting with an inspector.

Preparation Tips

Check Internet Connection: A strong signal is needed for video.
Charge Devices: Phones or tablets must be ready for live streaming.
Stage the Work Area: Make sure all work is complete and accessible.
Organize Documents: Have permits and project plans available.
Provide Clear Views: Good lighting and proper angles help inspectors confirm details.

By following these steps, most inspections can be completed in less than 30 minutes.

Private Providers and Permit Turnarounds

Under Florida law, third-party private providers can review and issue permits faster than traditional channels. In many cases, contractors receive approvals in 5 to 10 business days.

Broward’s partnership with providers like Inspected allows same-day or rapid reviews, cutting costs and reducing stress for builders. This system helps keep projects moving without bottlenecks.

Limits and Exceptions

While virtual inspections are a big step forward, some projects still require in-person checks. These include:

Large structural work
Fire safety systems
Multi-trade projects involving several disciplines
New building construction

In these cases, inspectors must be on site to confirm safety and compliance. Still, many routine projects can now be handled virtually.

Virtual Inspections Lead Broward’s Next Chapter

Virtual inspections in Broward County mark a new frontier in permitting. By using live video, photos, and digital records, the county offers faster scheduling, real-time feedback, and approvals in as little as five business days.

From roofing and HVAC to windows, plumbing, and solar systems, many single-trade permits now qualify. With support from private providers and digital tools, inspections are more efficient, transparent, and convenient than ever before.

For contractors, homeowners, and inspectors, virtual inspections are not just a temporary solution; they are the future of permitting in Broward County.

Virtual Inspections: Broward’s New Permitting Frontier