Florida Product Approval: What the Validator Role Means for Manufacturers
By Will Utsey, Vice President



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Priest & Associates Consulting continues to expand its capabilities in building product evaluation and code compliance.

We’re pleased to share that Will Utsey, Vice President of Technical Services, is an approved Validator with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) under the Florida Product Approval system.

What is the Florida Product Approval System?

The Florida Product Approval system is designed to ensure that building products meet the performance requirements of the Florida Building Code, particularly for high-wind regions where durability and life safety are critical.

It applies to a wide range of product categories, including:

  • Roofing systems
  • Wall and panel systems
  • Windows and exterior doors
  • Skylights
  • Structural components
  • Impact-resistant and protective systems

What Does a Validator Do?

Within this system, a Validator serves as an independent technical reviewer.

Their role is to evaluate submitted documentation and confirm that a product complies with the Florida Building Code using one or more recognized methods, such as:

  • Evaluation reports
  • Fire or performance test reports
  • Engineering evaluations by licensed professionals
  • Certification listings or marks

In practical terms, Validators act as a critical checkpoint, ensuring that the supporting data is complete, technically sound, and ready for approval.

Why This Matters for Manufacturers

Navigating product approval requirements can be complex, particularly when multiple forms of documentation and compliance pathways are involved.

Having access to a Validator within PAC allows us to:

  • Provide more streamlined support throughout the approval process
  • Align testing, evaluation, and documentation from the outset
  • Help reduce delays caused by incomplete or misaligned submittals

This capability strengthens PAC’s ability to support manufacturers from early-stage development through final approval.

It’s also worth noting that a Florida DBPR approval for High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) is recognized in both Miami-Dade and Broward counties.

For manufacturers, this can help simplify the approval process by aligning compliance pathways across jurisdictions.

Supporting the Full Compliance Pathway

This role aligns directly with PAC’s broader services, including fire testing, engineering evaluations, and code compliance support.

Together, these capabilities help bridge the gap between product development and regulatory acceptance, providing a more cohesive path to market.

Connect With Us

If you’re navigating the Florida Product Approval process or evaluating next steps for your product, we’d be glad to connect.

205-200-4594

[email protected]

https://priestassociates.com/contact.asp