New Florida Elevator Code: Is Your Building Compliant? DLM May Be the Quick Fix

Florida Elevator Code Updates: What Building Owners Need to Know

If you own or manage a building with elevators in Florida, recent code changes may affect you. The state has adopted updated safety requirements aligned with ASME A17.1, and one of the most impactful changes involves Door Lock Monitoring (DLM).

What is Door Lock Monitoring?

Door Lock Monitoring (DLM) is a safety system that continuously verifies elevator doors are properly closed and locked before the car moves. It prevents the elevator from operating if:

• A door is not fully closed
• The door lock mechanism has failed
• There is any gap between the car and landing doors

This technology has prevented countless accidents nationwide and is now required under updated Florida elevator codes for many existing installations.

Why Florida Updated the Code

Elevator door-related incidents remain one of the leading causes of elevator injuries. The new requirements aim to:

• Prevent accidents from doors opening unexpectedly
• Detect lock failures before they cause incidents
• Bring older elevators up to modern safety standards
• Reduce liability exposure for building owners

Does Your Building Need DLM?

If your elevator was installed before the current code cycle, it likely needs a DLM retrofit to remain compliant. This is especially true for:

• Hydraulic elevators installed before 2017
• Older traction systems without modern safety circuits
• Buildings that have received code violation notices
• Properties undergoing major renovations or sales

The Good News: DLM is a Quick, Affordable Solution

Unlike full elevator modernization, DLM installation is:

• Fast — Most installations complete in 1-2 days
• Affordable — A fraction of the cost of major upgrades
• Non-disruptive — Minimal downtime for your tenants
• Effective — Immediately brings your elevator into compliance

For many buildings facing code deadlines, DLM is the smartest first step. It addresses the most critical safety requirement without the expense of a complete overhaul.

Compliance Deadlines Are Real

Florida elevator inspectors are actively enforcing the new requirements. Non-compliant elevators can be:

• Taken out of service
• Subject to fines
• A liability risk for owners

Do not wait for a failed inspection to act.

Get a Free Compliance Assessment

Not sure if your elevator needs DLM or other updates? Brouss Elevators offers free code compliance assessments for South Florida buildings.

We will inspect your system, identify any code gaps, and provide clear options — from quick DLM retrofits to comprehensive modernization plans.

Call 786.308.9128 or request a service visit online. We respond in under 2 hours.

Brouss Elevators — Keeping South Florida compliant and safe since 2016.