Design Flaws and Code Violations in Pool Deck Led to Tragic Surfside Collapse

Federal experts investigating the collapse of a Florida condominium found its pool deck was constructed improperly and didn't meet building codes.
The concrete columns and pool deck lacked strength, corroding the steel inside, and heavy items placed extra weight on the unstable sections.
The pool deck had severe deficiencies in strength and failed to follow codes or the original plans according to federal investigators.
The collapsed pool deck is the leading hypothesis for the cause of the building's partial collapse which killed 98 people according to officials.
Investigators expect to finish their technical investigation next year and release recommendations for strengthening building codes and inspections in 2025.