HVHZ Residential: 68 Issues Found
A comprehensive plan review of a high-velocity hurricane zone (HVHZ) residential project uncovered 68 issues—including 2x4 vs 2x6 stud compliance, OSB vs plywood roof sheathing, impact-resistant openings, and foundation scope gaps—before permit.
The Project
A residential project in a High-Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ). InspectMind performed a comprehensive plan review for Florida Building Code compliance, identifying stud size and roof sheathing requirements, impact-resistant opening deficiencies, ventilation and roof slope issues, and foundation/floor system scope conflicts before permit.
Critical Findings (12)
General Note 2 specifies an exterior wall assembly using 3-1/2" wood studs (nominal 2x4) with 1/2" OSB sheathing and HVHZ-rated vinyl siding. Section 2318.1.1 requires nominal 2x6 minimum in High-Velocity Hurricane Zones.
The drawing specifies 1/2" OSB sheathing for roof construction. In Broward/Dade HVHZ, the Florida Building Code requires structural boards (min 3/4" per Section 2322.2.2) or plywood, not OSB.
General Note 6 specifies "R-30 BATT INSULATION IN ROOF" with insulation in the rafter cavity tight against roof sheathing. FBC 1203.2 requires a minimum 1-inch airspace and ventilation for such assemblies.
The Roof Plan shows a slope of 1:12. General Note 4 specifies asphalt shingles (ASTM D-3462). Minimum slope for asphalt shingles in HVHZ is 2:12.
The window schedule shows windows W-2.1SH and W-3SH with no impact-resistant specifications. Section 1609.1.2 requires glazed openings in wind-borne debris regions to be impact resistant.
The door schedule shows E-1 as 'Fire-rated impact door' and E-2 as 'Primed Steel' with glazing but no impact rating. In wind-borne debris regions, glazed openings shall be impact resistant per 1609.1.2.
Sample High Priority Findings (2 in sample)
General Note 4 allows asphalt shingles classified as "(H) OR (F)." Class F is rated for 110 mph. The project is in HIGH WIND ZONE BROWARD AND DADE (HVHZ), which typically requires higher classification.
Note 19 specifies a 'STEM-WALL FOUNDATION,' but the Building Sections depict a monolithic slab-on-grade with thickened edge. This is a direct contradiction.
Issue Categories
Structural
Structural and HVHZ wind-compliance issues found during plan review
Architectural
Architectural, envelope, and impact-resistance issues found during plan review
Mechanical
Ventilation and roof assembly issues found during plan review
Value Delivered
"HVHZ compliance is non-negotiable here. Catching the 2x4 vs 2x6 and OSB vs plywood issues before permit saved us from a rejected plan check and rework."
— Project Team, HVHZ Residential Project