Top 3 Local Law 11 Violations and How to Avoid Them
New York City’s Local Law 11, generally referred to as the Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), mandates that building exteriors be inspected on a regular basis ini order to maintain public safety. This is because costly infractions, penalties, and even dangerous situations may result from noncompliance. The three most frequent infractions of this Local Law are listed here, along with tips for avoiding them.
1. Non-Timely Submission of the FISP Report
Building owners are required to turn in their facade inspection report within the allotted compliance period. If the issue is not remedied, missing the deadline might lead to an automatic fine of $5,000 a year.
How to Avoid it ?
Keep track of the submission dates and the inspection cycle for your building. Moreover, to guarantee a prompt inspection, hire a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) as soon as possible. Finally, to avoid fines and problems with compliance, submit the FISP report prior to the due date.
2. Dangerous Facade Situations
A building may be deemed “Unsafe” if an inspector discovers cracks, loose bricks, spalling concrete, or other structural risks. This results in required repairs and possible infractions, such as the need for scaffolding or sidewalk sheds while the problems are fixed.
How to Avoid it ?
Maintain your facade on a regular basis to fix small problems before they get worse.
Additionally, conduct preventive inspection in between official FISP cycles. Finally, collaborate with a licensed contractor like 4ever construction to make sure all repairs adhere to compliance standards.
3. Failure to Maintain or Remove Sidewalk Sheds Violation
In order to safeguard pedestrians, buildings that are judged dangerous must install sidewalk sheds. However, there may be infractions if these sheds are not maintained or are left up for long periods of time without authorised repairs.
How to Avoid it ?
Repair facades as soon as possible to reduce the length of time sidewalk sheds are needed.
Moreover, sidewalk sheds should be properly maintained to prevent further safety infractions.
Preventing Local Law 11 Violations: Other Essential Steps for Compliance
Preparing for a FISP inspection doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. By taking proactive measures, you can ensure your building remains in excellent condition before a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) arrives. Here’s how to do it:
- Document Your Building’s History
Keep records of the building’s age, modifications, and structural changes.
- Maintain Detailed Repair Logs
Store records of past exterior repairs and associated permits, including drawings or photos when available.
- Ensure Full Accessibility
Make sure all facade areas are reachable for inspection.
- Clear Roofs, Terraces, and Fire Escapes
Remove debris, personal items, and anything obstructing the inspector’s view.
- Declutter Inspection Zones
Keep access and egress areas free of random objects to facilitate photographic documentation.
- Secure Building Hardware
Confirm that all exterior fixtures, fasteners, and hardware are intact and properly installed.
- Verify Window A/C Units
Ensure they are installed with a secure exterior bracket or an interior angle for stability.
- Work with a Reliable Property Manager
A professional management team can oversee compliance, inspections, and repairs to keep your building in top shape.
By following these steps, you can avoid costly fines and ensure a smooth 11th Local Law inspection process.
