St. Petersburg condo may need $45 M renovation, post-Surfside review finds

Bayfront Tower, a luxury condominium in St. Petersburg, is facing a potential renovation bill of $45 million after engineers flagged major structural issues during a recent inspection. The inspection was ordered in response to the 2021 Surfside collapse, which raised awareness and prompted state lawmakers to strengthen condo safety regulations across Florida. Key problems identified include concerns with post-tension cables, metal framing, stucco, garage concrete, and the roof. As condo associations throughout the state grapple with these new standards, many residents are bracing for hefty assessments to fund necessary repairs.

The financial implications for residents at Bayfront Tower could be significant, forcing some to either pay up or relocate. This situation underscores a widespread reckoning for aging condominium buildings statewide, as routine maintenance has often been overlooked in the past. The article highlights the urgent need for building inspections and repairs in light of increased regulatory scrutiny following the Surfside tragedy. Residents and owners alike are now faced with the daunting task of ensuring their homes meet the new safety requirements.