Deteriorating building exteriors in New York City every year are a great threat to the pedestrians and property. Local Law 10 and Local Law 11 guarantee that the exteriors of structures, including brick, stone, parapets, balconies, fire escapes, railings, and facade elements, are examined and maintained to minimize the danger of falling debris and structural degradation.
Facade inspections are not optional under this approach. They are required after every five years with specific filing due dates determined by the DOB-assigned sub-cycle of your building.
How the FISP Cycle Works
The Facade Inspection and Safety Program splits compliance into inspection rounds. Every cycle lasts five years and is split into sub-cycles depending on the block number of a building. Owners of buildings higher than six stories must arrange inspections, compile reports, and forward them in DOB NOW: Safety within the allotted filing period.
A QEWI assesses the facade critically during an inspection and assigns one of three condition categories:
- Safe: No major repair will be required for the next five years.
- Safe with a Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP): Conditions must be fixed before the following next cycle
- Unsafe: Direct danger exists and needs quick repair.
Failure to satisfy Local Law 10/11 deadlines or repair orders might lead to DOB violations, fines, and required protective actions like sidewalk sheds and fencing.
