Window Cleaning FAQ - FISP (LL11) Inspection

FISP, formerly Local Law 11, is a New York City regulation that mandates periodic inspections of the exterior walls and appurtenances of buildings taller than six stories. Its primary purpose is to ensure public safety by identifying and addressing potentially hazardous façade conditions. Over time, building facades can deteriorate due to weather, age, and other factors, posing risks to pedestrians and surrounding properties. FISP aims to prevent façade failures and maintain the structural integrity of buildings.

FISP inspections are required every five years. The city divides buildings into sub-cycles (A, B, and C) based on their block number, which staggers the inspection deadlines. This ensures a consistent flow of inspections throughout the city. You must check the current cycle and your building's assigned sub-cycle to determine your specific deadline.

Only a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI), who is a registered architect or professional engineer certified by the NYC Department of Buildings (NYCDOB), can perform a FISP inspection. These professionals have specialized knowledge and experience in façade inspection and restoration, ensuring they can accurately assess building conditions and identify potential hazards.

If your building is deemed "unsafe," you must immediately notify the NYCDOB. You are also required to install public protection measures, such as sidewalk sheds, to safeguard pedestrians. Necessary repairs must be performed within a specified timeframe to address the hazardous conditions and bring the building into compliance. Failure to take prompt action can result in significant penalties.

The FISP inspection process includes a "critical examination" of the building's exterior walls and appurtenances. This involves visual inspections from various vantage points, close-up examinations using access methods like scaffolding, boom lifts, or rope access, and detailed documentation of findings. For buildings with cavity walls, probes are used to assess the condition of wall ties. The QEWI then prepares a report classifying the building's condition as SAFE, SWARMP (Safe With a Repair and Maintenance Program), or UNSAFE, and files it with the NYCDOB.

Failure to comply with FISP regulations can result in violations and penalties from the NYCDOB. This can include fines, orders to perform immediate repairs, and even legal action. Non-compliance can also pose significant safety risks to the public and damage a building's reputation.

A "SAFE" classification indicates that no hazardous conditions were found during the inspection. A "SWARMP" (Safe With a Repair and Maintenance Program) classification means that certain conditions requiring repairs or maintenance were identified, but they do not pose an immediate safety risk. The building owner must address these conditions within a specified timeframe to maintain compliance.

To prepare for a FISP inspection, gather any relevant building records, including past inspection reports, repair records, and permits. Ensure that access to all exterior walls and appurtenances is clear. Consider hiring a QEWI well in advance of the deadline to allow ample time for the inspection and any necessary repairs. It is also good to check that all fire escapes, and balconies are free from obstructions.