Parapet | Parapet Inspection in NYC

Parapet Inspection in NYC: What Property Owners Need to Know 

Parapet Inspection in NYC: What Property Owners Need to Know 

When you are a New York City property owner, it’s not just a maintenance issue to keep your parapet walls safe and code-compliant – it’s a legal requirement. NYC Parapet Inspection has performed numerous parapet inspections in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx for hundreds of NYC building owners. Here’s what you need to know about this crucial safety.

A Parapet and the Importance of Inspection

A parapet is a small wall or barrier that extends over a building’s roofline. It is intended to ensure safety by preventing falls and protecting the façade from harsh weather. Over time, New York’s winters, storms and winds can sever parapets, making them structurally unsafe.

Parapet inspection isn’t just a smart move but a legal obligation under NYC’s Façade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP), or Local Law 11. Inspections can identify clefts, missing bricks, or cracking mortar before they become hazardous.

The Parapet Inspection Process in NYC 

Here is what to expect from a parapet inspection in New York City:

Hire a Professional Engineer or Architect 

Only New York State-licensed engineers (PEs) or architects (RAs) are allowed to inspect facades and parapets, as defined in Local Law 11. The certified professionals ensure that the construction follows the city’s code and provides accurate inspections. 

Visual Inspection 

The process begins by examining the parapet walls for cracks, peeling or sagging. Inspectors can check six story and higher buildings with scaffolding, drones or binoculars.

Close-Up Inspection 

If there is evidence of damage, inspectors perform a hands-on inspection using scaffolding or lifts. They check for loose masonry, flaking concrete, and water damage. 

Report Submission 

Upon inspection, the engineer or architect provides an elaborate report which classifies the parapet as:

  • Safe: Does not require immediate replacement.
  • Safe with a Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP): Repairs in a certain time frame.
  • Unsafe: Immediate hazards needing urgent fixes. 

For all buildings over six stories, this report must be submitted to the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB).

Documentation Required for Parapet Inspections 

Property owners should be ready with the following documents in order to expedite the process:

  • Certificate of Occupancy 
  • Building permits 
  • Previous inspection reports 
  • Maintenance and repair history for the building facade and parapets 

Having these documents readily available can help inspectors get a comprehensive understanding of the building’s history and conditions. 

Choosing the Right Parapet Inspection Professionals 

Hiring certified, skilled inspection specialists is key to ensuring compliance and high-quality work. How to hire the right team in NYC: 

Check Licensing: Ensure the engineer or architect is registered with New York State. 

Look for Local Expertise: Choose contractors that understand the challenges of NYC buildings, especially in Manhattan and Brooklyn, where the infrastructure is often old. 

Read Reviews: Opt for a company with great reviews and a proven track record for parapet inspections.

Request Comprehensive Services: Enlist a firm that provides both inspection and repair services to avoid working with multiple companies to maintain your parapet.

Protect Your Property With NYC Parapet Inspection

Parapet inspections are essential for the safety, compliance, and structural integrity of your NYC building. NYC Parapet Inspection specializes in comprehensive inspections, detailed reports, and tailored repairs based on Local Law 11 specifications. With decades of experience in all five boroughs, our trained team is dedicated to ensuring your building stays safe and secure. Don’t leave safety to chance—ensure your property is in expert hands. 

Feel free to call us at 718-550-2779 to schedule your parapet inspection and safeguard your building’s future.

 

NYC Inspection Services | Inspection Mistakes

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid During NYC Parapet Inspections 

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid During NYC Parapet Inspections 

Regular parapet inspections are necessary to stay compliant with NYC safety regulations. These small walls or railings at the top of buildings help keep structures stable and ensure public safety. If you are Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens and Manhattan property owners, understand that missing inspections can lead to costly problems. 

What are the most typical pitfalls and what can you do to avoid them? Check out 5 most common parapet inspection mistakes and their solutions.

1. Ignoring New York City’s Local Law 11 Requirements 

NYC’s Local Law 11 requires a façade inspection every five years for buildings above six stories. This includes inspecting parapets for cracks, leaning or loose materials. Many property owners ignore this requirement believing that their building is “in good shape.” However, you could end up paying steep fines, a lawsuit, or even an unsafe building designation if you don’t conduct inspections.

Solution: Stay on top of things. Keep Local Law 11 compliance deadlines in mind, and enlist the help of experienced inspection experts to ensure your parapet is up to code.

2. Waiting Until Problems Escalate 

A tiny crack or chip in the parapet may appear harmless, but quickly become a major structural issue. Water damage is among the top culprits, especially during NYC’s icy winters, where freeze-thaw cycles can amplify even the tiniest flaws.

Solution: Perform regular inspections, even when you are not legally required to. This way, you can catch small problems before they escalate, saving you large repair bills down the line. 

3. Choosing Unqualified Inspectors 

Not all inspectors are created equal. Enlisting an inexperienced or unlicensed inspector could lead to missed repairs or incomplete reports. This is particularly risky given NYC’s rigorous building codes and enforcement. 

Solution: Choose an inspection company, such as NYC Parapet Inspection with experience performing NYC parapet inspections. The trained specialists know the city codes and will inspect all aspects of your parapet carefully.

4. Overlooking Proper Documentation 

Once inspected, property owners must submit a FISP (Façade Inspection Safety Program) report to the NYC Department of Buildings. Most owners either forget this step or submit inaccurate reports, which can result in penalties.

Solution: Documentation is essential. Keep your inspection results properly recorded and filed in compliance with city regulations. Working with an experienced contractor will make this much easier.

5. Neglecting Repairs After an Inspection 

A parapet inspection is only the beginning. If your parapet is flagged with issues, delaying repairs can make your parapet worse, which in turn will increase the cost of repair and can also put residents and visitors at risk.

Solution: If your parapet needs repairs, act fast. NYC Parapet Inspection specializes in parapet restorations and can get the job done quickly and efficiently while keeping your building compliant. 

Protect Your Building with NYC Parapet Inspection

When parapet inspections are handled properly, you keep not just your building, but everyone surrounding it, safe. At NYC Parapet Inspection, we strive to ensure property owners across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and beyond meet NYC’s strict safety standards with confidence. Whether you need an inspection, repair, or restoration, we will guide you every step of the way. 

Don’t leave compliance up to chance—choose NYC’s trusted parapet inspection partner. Get in touch with NYC Parapet Inspection today for a free estimate and keep your building in excellent condition. Call 718-550-2779.