What Is NYC’s Local Law 11, and Why Is It Important?

Local law 11 of New York City, also known as the Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), requires that any building having more than six stories requires façade inspection every 5 years to be conducted by a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEW). These inspectors must be licensed architects or engineers and should qualify as approved by the NYC Department of Buildings. The inspection report divides the building into three groups,

• Safe,
• Safe With A Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARP), and
• Unsafe.

If any deficits are noticed sometimes, they must be corrected within a particular period. Where repairs are made, the QEWI prepares and releases an updated report showing the changes made. Following Local Law 11 acts beneficially for safeguarding the buildings against any mishap and preserving Uniquely, New York’s skyline.

Requirements of NYC’s Local Law 11 (Façade Inspection Safety Program)

NYC’s Local Law 11 sets out prerequisites that must be followed to maintain the integrity of building facades across New York City. These include:

Inspections

Qualified professionals such as licensed architects or engineers must conduct an exterior inspection every five years. This inspection involves a hands-on review of the facade, including elements such as windows, balconies, fire escapes, and parapets, to assess its condition and safety.

Classification

After the inspection, buildings are classified into one of three categories:

• Safe: The facade is in good condition, posing no risk to safety.
• Safe with a Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP): The building is mostly safe but requires minor repairs and an ongoing maintenance plan.
• Unsafe: The building’s facade is in poor condition, presenting a serious safety hazard that requires immediate repairs.

Repairs

If the building is classified as “Unsafe” or “SWARMP,” the owner must complete the necessary repairs within a specified time frame. “Unsafe” buildings require prompt action to address the risks.

Reports

A detailed report, including inspection results, classification, and any recommended repairs, must be filed with the NYC Department of Buildings. This report should be submitted within a designated time frame, usually within 30 days of the inspection.

Fines and Penalties

Failing to comply with the provisions of Local Law 11 can result in fines and legal consequences. Penalties may be issued for missed inspections, failure to file reports, or neglecting necessary repairs.

Are You in Compliance with NYC’s Local Law 11?

Building owners in New York City must have their building facades and exterior walls inspected every five years under Local Law 11, also known as the Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP). Compliance with this law is critical to ensure building safety and avoid potential fines, legal liabilities, and safety risks to occupants. This law applies across all five boroughs—Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, and Staten Island (Westchester for nearby suburbs)—and enforcement varies by area.

NYC Construction Pro: Your Partner in Building Safety and Compliance

During Building Safety Month, NYC Construction Pro offers expert services to ensure your building is compliant with Local Law 11. We specialize in facade inspections, repairs, and general maintenance across Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, and Westchester, helping building owners meet the requirements of the law and maintain a safe environment.

Key Services for Local Law 11 Compliance

Our range of services is designed to help building owners comply with Local Law 11 and ensure their exteriors remain safe and structurally sound. We offer:

• Facade Restoration & Repointing: Repairing and restoring masonry, brick, and stone facades.
• Brickwork Repair & Replacement: Ensuring the stability of exterior walls.
• Window Replacement: Replacing damaged or outdated windows to maintain safety standards.
• Lintel & Sill Repairs or Replacement: Repairing vital structural components of the building’s facade.
• EIFS & Stucco Repairs: Maintaining modern exterior finishes in compliance with safety codes.
• Stone Repairs & Replacement: Repairing and replacing damaged stonework.
• Metal Panel Replacement: Updating deteriorated or damaged metal panels.
• Waterproofing: Preventing water intrusion that can lead to facade damage.

Enforcement of Local Law 11 Across Boroughs

Manhattan and Brooklyn are especially stringent with Local Law 11 enforcement due to the density of older and historic buildings. In these areas, building inspections are frequent, and necessary repairs must be completed promptly to avoid substantial penalties.

Queens and The Bronx also have strict inspection protocols, with repairs often needed after inspection findings. Building owners in these areas should act quickly to ensure the safety of their properties and avoid fines.

In Westchester, while it is a more suburban area, Local Law 11 still applies to larger buildings, and the same repair and inspection standards are enforced to ensure public safety.

Comprehensive Repair Services

At NYC Construction Pro, we offer an array of services to ensure that your building’s exterior remains safe, compliant, and well-maintained, including:

• Masonry & Concrete Work
• Waterproofing
• Brick and Stone Repair
• Facade Restoration
• Window Replacement
• Lintel & Sill Replacement

Additionally, we manage all permitting and approvals necessary for your repair projects, saving you the time and effort of navigating the bureaucratic process.

Schedule Your Consultation

Ensuring compliance with Local Law 11 is a top priority for building owners across NYC and surrounding areas. At NYC Construction Pro, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions to keep your building safe, modern, and compliant.

Contact us today at our WhatsApp (+1) 917-355-8556 to schedule a consultation and learn more about our services. Let us help you maintain your property’s stability, safety, and compliance.