Bill > SB309

This bill requires periodic inspections of buildings five or more stories tall to ensure their structural integrity and safety, in response to concerns raised by the Surfside, Florida condominium collapse and the potential structural challenges posed by Hawaii's salty ocean environment and increasing hurricane risks. The bill mandates that building owners hire a professional engineer or licensed architect to conduct comprehensive inspections every seven years, with the first inspection required by December 31, 2029. These inspections must include a detailed physical examination of exterior walls and appurtenances (such as flagpoles, signs, and window frames), using standardized procedures to detect potential structural issues like corrosion, spalling, or material separation. The professional must prepare a detailed report documenting the building's condition, classifying it as "safe," "unsafe," or "safe with a repair and maintenance program," and immediately notify the owner and local authorities of any unsafe conditions. If unsafe conditions are identified, the building owner must take immediate safety measures, obtain necessary permits within three days, and commence repairs within ten days. The bill also provides a process for requesting extensions or appealing inspection findings, and allows owners to potentially obtain a waiver if the building's exterior walls have been substantially restored within the previous seven years. The state building code council will be responsible for adopting rules to implement these new inspection requirements.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=309&year=2026