FISP Façade Inspections (Local Law 11)
The Façade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP), also known as Local Law 11, requires NYC buildings over 6 stories to undergo periodic façade inspections. Learn about requirements, cycles, and compliance.
What Is FISP?
The Façade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP) — commonly referred to as Local Law 11 — is a NYC Department of Buildings program that mandates periodic inspections of the exterior walls and appurtenances of buildings taller than six stories. The program was established to protect public safety after incidents involving falling façade debris.
Building owners are required to hire a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) — a licensed professional engineer or registered architect with specific façade inspection credentials — to conduct a critical examination of the building's exterior every five years.
FISP Cycle 10 Schedule
Cycle 10 began on February 21, 2025. Filing windows are determined by the last digit of the building's tax block number:
| Block Number Ending In | Sub-Cycle | Filing Window |
|---|---|---|
| 4, 5, 6, 9 | A | Feb 21, 2025 – Feb 21, 2027 |
| 0, 7, 8 | B | Feb 21, 2026 – Feb 21, 2028 |
| 1, 2, 3 | C | Feb 21, 2027 – Feb 21, 2029 |
Inspection Classifications
Safe
The façade is in good condition with no issues requiring repair. No follow-up action needed until the next cycle.
Safe With a Repair & Maintenance Program (SWARMP)
Minor conditions were found that require repair within a specified timeframe. The building is safe for now, but corrective work must be completed and documented.
Unsafe
Conditions were found that pose an immediate risk to public safety. The owner must install protective measures (sidewalk sheds/scaffolding) immediately and begin repairs.
What Gets Inspected?
A FISP inspection covers all exterior elements of the building, including:
- Exterior walls — Brick, stone, precast concrete, curtain walls, EIFS, and stucco surfaces
- Balconies and terraces — Structural integrity, railings, and waterproofing
- Cornices and parapets — Stability and attachment to the building structure
- Window sills and lintels — Cracking, displacement, and deterioration
- Fire escapes — Structural soundness and anchoring
- Signs, flagpoles, and other appurtenances — Secure attachment and condition
Penalties for Non-Compliance
No Report Filed (NRF)
Buildings that fail to file a FISP report face ongoing civil penalties that accumulate monthly. These fines can reach tens of thousands of dollars over a cycle.
Late Filing Penalties
Reports filed after the deadline may still incur penalties for each month of non-compliance prior to filing.
Cycle 10 Early Filing
New for Cycle 10: buildings with NRF status from Cycle 9 that are filing as Safe or SWARMP can file early in Sub-Cycle A to stop accumulating penalties.
The Connection to Scaffolding
FISP is the primary reason for the extensive scaffolding and sidewalk sheds seen throughout NYC. When a building receives an "Unsafe" classification, the owner must immediately install protective scaffolding — and it remains until repairs are completed and a new inspection classifies the façade as Safe or SWARMP.
How BVS Helps with FISP Compliance
FISP compliance involves coordination between property owners, QEWIs, contractors, and the DOB. At BVS, we manage the process end-to-end:
- Determine your building's filing sub-cycle and deadline
- Coordinate with qualified inspectors to conduct the examination
- File FISP reports through DOB NOW: Safety
- Manage SWARMP repair timelines and documentation
- Resolve any violations issued for non-compliance
- Coordinate sidewalk shed permits for Unsafe classifications
Need Help with FISP Compliance?
Whether your building needs its first FISP report or you're dealing with an Unsafe classification, BVS ensures you meet every deadline and requirement.
Contact BVS