Local Law 11 - Facades
According to Section 28-323.5.1 of the NYC Administrative Codes, a building's exterior walls and appurtenances shall be maintained in a safe condition. Every building in the New York City area with more than six stories above ground is required to participate in the Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) as stipulated by both the mentioned Administrative Code and RCNY §103-04. These documents mandate regular inspections of a building’s facades to ensure they are safe and comply with city standards. The inspections must be conducted by or under the supervision of, a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI). By meticulously inspecting the exterior walls and preparing the necessary report, the QEWI can assess the building's condition and recommend any needed repairs. The QEWI is also required to categorize the condition of the facade as either safe, unsafe, or Safe with a Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP), which will help determine what actions are needed in the future. If your building is deemed unsafe, the conditions must be corrected within ninety (90) days from the submission of the critical examination report. A SWARMP condition indicates that there are recommended repairs for the future, but there are no immediate safety concerns. FISP ensures that the building's exterior facades are safe for both residents and pedestrians. These inspections are vital in preventing potentially deadly accidents and failing to conduct them within the required timeframe results in substantial fines. The Facade Inspection Safety Program operates on a 5-year cycle divided into three sub-cycles: A, B, and C. Building owners must complete their facade inspection during the designated timeframe of the sub-cycle applicable to their property. After completing the three sub-cycles (A, B, and C) within the 5-year FISP cycle, there is additional time remaining before the next cycle begins. This gap period allows for any necessary follow-up inspections or repairs based on the findings from the sub-cycles.
These inspections are extremely complex and the rules are constantly changing which is why it’s important to hire experts. Pantec Engineering will ensure that the inspection is done correctly and promptly. Our team stays up-to-date with the latest regulations and industry standards to provide our clients with the most accurate and reliable assessments. Trust Pantec Engineering to keep your building compliant and safe.