The low, protective barriers known as parapet walls, which are frequently seen at roof edges, are crucial to the structural soundness and safety of buildings in New York City. Due to recent modifications to local building codes, property owners are now subject to more stringent inspection and accountability for ensuring the safety of the parapet. It is now crucial for compliance and public safety to comprehend the nuances of parapet wall inspection in NYC and the requirements of Local Law 126 parapet inspection.
With Local Law 126, New York City has strengthened its safety rules in response to previous incidents involving falling masonry. Most property owners must now follow a new yearly inspection schedule starting in 2024. The most crucial aspects of the regulation are outlined in this guide, including which buildings are impacted, what the inspection comprises, significant deadlines, and the main exemptions that property owners should be aware of.
1. What Buildings in NYC Are Affected?
Every structure in New York City that has a parapet wall facing a public street, sidewalk, alley, or right-of-way is required to have an annual inspection under Local Law 126. This broadens the scope of the previous regulations, which were mainly applicable to tall buildings under the Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), to encompass a large number of previously exempt low- and mid-rise buildings.
There are some significant exceptions:
- The inspection rule does not apply to detached single-family and two-family homes.
- Structures with a continuous fence or barrier at least half as tall as the parapet itself that entirely isolates the parapet from the general public are likewise exempt.
It’s best to presume that the regulation is in effect if your property doesn’t obviously fall under one of these exemptions.
2. Conditions of Local Law 126 Inspection of the Parapet
NYC requires an annual parapet wall inspection to be carried out by a “competent person.” In contrast to FISP, this does not strictly call for a certified engineer or architect; competent masons, building inspectors, or seasoned superintendents may also be eligible, provided that they are able to recognize problems like tilting, cracking, or displacement.
Examining whether parapets deviate from plumb by more than 1/8 of the wall’s thickness is part of the inspection’s scope.
- Checking for damaged mortar joints, coping stones, or loose, missing, or cracked masonry.
- Checking for rust, decay, or instability in railing or guard systems; evaluating the stability of associated fixtures (antennas, signage).
- Taking pictures of the results and noting the time, place, flaws found, and suggested fixes.
3. What Must Be Recorded?
A written Parapet Inspection Report must be kept on file by property owners for a minimum of six years.
- The name and qualifications of the inspector should be included in the report.
- The inspection date.
- Photographic proof and findings.
- Specific suggestions for repairs, if any are required.
These parapet reports are not submitted to the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) until specifically requested, in contrast to FISP facade reports. Nonetheless, there may be fines for neglecting to submit a report during a DOB audit.
4. The Cycle of Compliance and Deadlines
On January 1, 2024, the Local Law 126 inspection cycle was underway. The first examination of all covered buildings must be finished by December 31, 2024, and then by December 31 of each year after that. Since missing the deadline may result in fines or compliance actions, property owners should avoid delaying scheduling.
The owner is required to install safety precautions (such as sidewalk sheds or barriers), contact the DOB right away (using 311 and a specific parapet email), and finish repairs within ninety days if an inspector discovers an unsafe condition.
5. Repercussions for Non-Compliance
DOB infractions and fines may result from missing deadlines, failing to provide documentation, or breaking the parapet inspection regulations. If dangerous issues are not fixed, there will be more fines and emergency repairs required by the city.
NYC Parapet Inspections: Peace of Mind, Safety, and Accountability
The parapet wall inspection in NYC are the efforts to improve urban safety and proactively avoid accidents, are reflected in Local Law 126 regulations. To stay in compliance with the law, property owners must be aware of the requirements, look for any exemptions, maintain thorough records, and meet inspection dates.
Everyone will be safer on the sidewalks and in the skyline of New York City if strict adherence is maintained.
