Engineers Find Large Gap Under Rialto Apartments Slab

Structural damage forces evacuation of Orlando building

Apr. 3, 2026 at 12:22am

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A hazy, impressionistic photograph of a multi-story apartment building, its details obscured in a soft, warm glow of light and color, conveying a sense of uncertainty and unease about the building's structural integrity.The Rialto Apartments in Orlando face an uncertain future as engineers investigate structural damage that forced the evacuation of the building.Today in Orlando

Engineers investigating the Rialto Apartments in Orange County, Florida found a large gap, about 3 feet deep and 15 feet in diameter, beneath a load-bearing wall footing between apartment stacks 45 and 47. This gap is believed to have contributed to the structural damage that forced the evacuation of the entire building last month.

Why it matters

The discovery of this significant gap under the building's foundation raises serious concerns about the structural integrity of the Rialto Apartments and the safety of its residents. It also highlights the importance of thorough engineering inspections to identify potential issues before they lead to catastrophic failures.

The details

According to the preliminary engineering report, the investigators also found other gaps between the concrete slab and underlying soil in numerous locations throughout the rest of the building, ranging from 0.5 to 4 inches. The report states that the lack of soil support below the slab-on-grade between Stacks 45 and 47 likely resulted in the downward displacement or movement of the slab and wall. The engineers have ordered temporary shoring work to be done, and the county has asked for a detailed list of required emergency repairs. Once that work is complete, the investigation and structural analysis will continue, which may take over 60 days.

  • The Rialto Apartments building was evacuated on March 19, 2026 after residents reported hearing a loud 'popping' noise and found some doors jammed shut.
  • The preliminary engineering findings letter is dated April 1, 2026.

The players

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger

The engineering firm investigating the structural damage at the Rialto Apartments.

Orange County Division of Building Safety

The local government agency overseeing the investigation and repair process for the Rialto Apartments.

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What’s next

The investigating engineer has ordered temporary shoring work to be done, and the county has asked for a detailed list of required emergency repairs. Once that work is complete, the investigation and structural analysis will continue, which may take over 60 days. After the investigation is complete, engineered repair plans will still need to be submitted as part of a permit application before the county can inspect the repairs and reinstate occupancy.

The takeaway

This incident at the Rialto Apartments highlights the critical importance of thorough structural inspections and maintenance to identify and address any underlying issues before they lead to catastrophic failures. It also underscores the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety of residents in multi-unit buildings.