Understanding the NYC Facade Inspection & Safety Program

In New York City, the towering buildings that shape the skyline require more than just aesthetic appeal—they demand safety and structural integrity. With its dense urban environment, the risk posed by deteriorating facades is significant, and maintaining the exterior of buildings is critical for the safety of pedestrians, residents, and workers alike. This is where the NYC Facade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP), also known as Local Law 11, comes into play. As one of the most rigorous facade inspection programs in the country, FISP mandates that owners of large buildings undergo regular facade inspections to ensure their structures are safe and compliant with the city’s building codes. For property owners, navigating the complexities of FISP can be challenging, but understanding the program and its requirements is key to avoiding violations and costly repairs.

The Purpose and Scope of FISP

The primary goal of the Facade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP) is to ensure that building facades in New York City are properly maintained and do not pose a safety risk to the public. The program was first introduced in 1980 after a series of accidents caused by crumbling facades and falling debris, leading the city to take action. The law has since been updated, with Local Law 11 of 1998 expanding its scope to require more frequent and detailed inspections.

FISP applies to all buildings in New York City that are six stories or higher. Under the program, building owners must hire a licensed architect or engineer, known as a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI), to conduct inspections of the building’s facade every five years. These inspections are designed to assess the safety and condition of exterior walls, including the structural integrity of balconies, railings, and other exterior elements. Any potential hazards must be identified and addressed promptly to prevent accidents and ensure the building remains in good standing with the Department of Buildings (DOB).

The FISP Inspection Process

The FISP inspection process is comprehensive and involves several key steps. First, the building’s owner must hire a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) to perform both a visual and close-up inspection of the entire building facade. The visual inspection is typically conducted from the ground or nearby buildings, while the close-up inspection often involves the use of scaffolding, suspended platforms, or drones to examine hard-to-reach areas.

During the inspection, the QEWI evaluates the facade for signs of wear, deterioration, or structural damage. Common issues include cracks in the masonry, loose bricks or stones, rusting metal components, and water infiltration, all of which can weaken the facade over time. Inspectors also check the condition of balconies, terraces, and fire escapes, as these elements are crucial to the overall safety of the building’s exterior.

Once the inspection is complete, the QEWI classifies the facade’s condition into one of three categories:

• Safe: The facade is in good condition and requires no immediate repairs.
• Safe with a Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP): The facade has some issues that need repair, but they do not pose an immediate safety risk. However, these issues must be addressed within a specific timeframe (typically one to five years).
• Unsafe: The facade presents a significant risk to public safety, and immediate repairs are required. If a building is classified as unsafe, the owner must take immediate action, which often includes installing protective measures like sidewalk sheds to prevent falling debris from causing harm.

After the inspection, the QEWI submits a Facade Inspection Report to the DOB, detailing the findings and recommended actions. This report is critical for ensuring compliance with FISP regulations and avoiding violations or penalties.

Addressing Violations and Repair Requirements

If the facade is classified as SWARMP or Unsafe, building owners must act quickly to resolve the issues and bring the building into compliance. Failing to address the necessary repairs can result in significant fines and penalties, not to mention potential safety hazards for pedestrians and building occupants. In the case of an Unsafe classification, the building owner is required to install immediate protective measures, such as sidewalk sheds, to mitigate the risk while repairs are underway.

The repair process often involves restoring or replacing deteriorating facade components, addressing water infiltration issues, or reinforcing the structural integrity of balconies and exterior walls. Depending on the severity of the issue, these repairs can be extensive and time-consuming, requiring coordination between the building owner, contractors, and the DOB. Throughout the process, it’s essential to keep the DOB informed of the progress, as failure to meet repair deadlines can result in additional fines or even a Stop Work Order.

At Building Violation Solutions (BVS), we specialize in guiding building owners through the complexities of FISP compliance, from coordinating inspections with Qualified Exterior Wall Inspectors to managing the repair and filing processes. By staying proactive and addressing facade issues early, we help property owners avoid the risks and costs associated with unsafe conditions and violations.

Preventing Violations Through Regular Maintenance

One of the best ways to avoid violations under FISP is through proactive maintenance. Building facades, especially in New York City’s harsh climate, are subject to constant wear and tear from weather, temperature fluctuations, and pollution. Regularly inspecting and maintaining your building’s exterior can help catch minor issues before they escalate into major repairs or safety hazards.

Creating a long-term maintenance plan that includes annual facade inspections, cleaning, and repairs can reduce the likelihood of an Unsafe or SWARMP designation. By addressing minor cracks, loose materials, or water damage early, property owners can extend the life of their facades and avoid costly, last-minute repairs when FISP deadlines approach.

Additionally, ensuring that the building’s drainage systems are functioning properly can prevent water infiltration, one of the leading causes of facade deterioration. Keeping balconies, terraces, and fire escapes well-maintained also contributes to the overall safety and stability of the building’s exterior.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failing to comply with FISP can lead to significant penalties. Buildings that do not file a timely facade inspection report with the DOB are subject to fines of up to $1,000 per month until the report is submitted. For buildings classified as unsafe, fines of up to $1,000 per day may be imposed if repairs are not completed in a timely manner.

In addition to financial penalties, non-compliance puts the safety of building occupants and pedestrians at risk. The collapse of a facade or falling debris can result in serious injuries or even fatalities, which can lead to lawsuits and further liabilities for the building owner. Maintaining compliance with FISP not only protects the public but also safeguards the owner from legal and financial repercussions.

Conclusion

The NYC Facade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP) plays a crucial role in maintaining the safety and structural integrity of the city’s buildings. By understanding the requirements of FISP and staying proactive in addressing facade issues, property owners can avoid violations, protect their tenants, and ensure the longevity of their buildings. At BVS, we help guide building owners through every step of the FISP process, from inspections to repairs, ensuring that compliance is maintained and costly delays or fines are avoided.

By making facade maintenance a priority, building owners can not only meet FISP requirements but also contribute to the safety and beauty of New York City’s ever-evolving skyline.