Lauderhill to inventory and inspect multifamily elevators, asks county for enforcement help

Lauderhill commissioners raised repeated public safety concerns about nonworking elevators in multifamily buildings during the Nov. 10 workshop and directed staff to create a city‑level inventory and inspection plan.

Fire and building officials said Florida fire code treats elevators as a convenience rather than a life‑safety system for most low‑rise buildings (life‑safety designation generally applies above about 70 feet). That code distinction limits the city’s authority to require elevator repairs; Broward County’s elevator‑inspection division enforces mechanical compliance and certifies contractors.

Chief Matt Torres and building officials told the commission that broken elevators create repeated 911 burdens — responders who must carry residents on stairways — and can delay higher‑priority emergency response. Staff recommended a two‑pronged approach: (1) assemble a local list of elevators that appear nonoperational (using county records, property managers and targeted site visits), and (2) press county code enforcement and county representatives for quicker corrective action. The commission directed staff to begin logistics planning immediately with a goal of starting inspections within about a week and completing a first‑pass inventory within six months.

City attorney and staff said towing unregistered vehicles at problem properties and using code enforcement remedies remain available while the city coordinates with the county; commissioners asked for a Monday progress update on a start date.