Posted on October 14th, 2025.

Walking through Manhattan’s mix of historic and modern structures, it’s easy to see how every building reflects both its past and the care of those who maintain it. For property owners, keeping that legacy intact means going beyond simple upkeep—it means meeting safety standards under the Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) Cycle 10B.

These regulations don’t just exist for compliance; they protect residents, pedestrians, and the city’s architectural fabric. By investing time and attention into facade care, you’re not just checking a box—you’re strengthening your building’s value, reputation, and resilience.

The cornerstone of compliance lies in understanding the Cycle 10B timeline and preparing before deadlines arrive. Early planning allows you to handle documentation, schedule inspections, and make repairs without last-minute pressure. Every report must be accurate, thorough, and prepared by licensed professionals.

Getting ahead means fewer disruptions, clearer communication with the Department of Buildings (DOB), and smoother approval. Compliance, when approached proactively, becomes an ongoing strategy that safeguards both your investment and the public.

Understanding FISP Cycle 10B Requirements

To comply successfully with FISP Cycle 10B, building owners must first understand what the program requires and why it matters. The DOB enforces FISP as a recurring safety measure, ensuring every building higher than six stories undergoes a professional facade inspection every five years. For Cycle 10B, property owners must work within specific submission windows based on their building’s block number. Missing those windows can result in penalties or unsafe facade classifications.

The first step toward compliance is hiring a Licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect to conduct a full facade evaluation. This inspection results in a detailed report categorizing your facade as Safe, Safe with a Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP), or Unsafe. Reports must include photos, notes on defects, and recommended corrective actions. Unsafe conditions require immediate attention, followed by a subsequent report verifying repairs have been completed within the DOB’s mandated timeframe.

Documentation accuracy is crucial. The DOB expects reports that demonstrate not only the building’s current condition but also evidence of previous maintenance. Missing or incomplete data can delay approvals and lead to fines. Having organized maintenance records and repair documentation ready helps your QEWI (Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector) streamline the submission process. A thorough, transparent report reflects diligence and responsibility.

Non-compliance can have steep consequences, from daily fines to public safety violations. Beyond the financial burden, these issues can damage your property’s reputation and limit future investments. By contrast, consistent compliance enhances your standing with tenants, buyers, and city agencies. It positions your building as a trusted, well-maintained property that values public safety.

Embracing FISP as a management tool rather than a hurdle ensures a smoother inspection cycle. It allows property owners to plan budgets, coordinate repairs efficiently, and reinforce a culture of safety and accountability. Cycle 10B is your opportunity to demonstrate both compliance and commitment to New York City’s long-standing architectural standards.

Navigating Common Facade Inspection Challenges

Facade inspections often uncover recurring issues that can compromise both safety and compliance if left unaddressed. Among the most common problems are cracks, loose masonry, and water infiltration—all of which can escalate into costly structural failures. Cracks may begin as small hairline fractures from temperature changes or material aging, but over time, they can allow moisture to penetrate deeper layers, weakening your building’s integrity.

Water intrusion is a frequent concern, especially in older masonry or stone facades. Signs like staining, efflorescence, or bulging materials indicate trapped moisture. Addressing these issues requires regular inspections of joints, flashing, and sealants. Partnering with a QEWI ensures that you detect and repair early signs of water damage, preserving both safety and aesthetics. Proactive waterproofing measures, such as replacing deteriorated sealants or installing better drainage systems, can significantly reduce risk.

Another major issue lies with failing anchors and attachments. These metal components hold facade elements securely in place. Corrosion or detachment can pose serious hazards to pedestrians and occupants. Regular anchor inspections and timely replacements prevent potential emergencies and reinforce compliance during Cycle 10B. Maintaining these systems demonstrates your commitment to structural safety and public welfare.

Material deterioration also poses challenges. Brick spalling, stone flaking, and mortar joint failures occur naturally over time but worsen under New York’s freeze-thaw conditions. Regular repointing and surface restoration are essential to prolong material life. Applying breathable coatings or protective membranes can add years to your facade while maintaining visual appeal. These steps ensure your structure’s beauty aligns with its safety performance.

Finally, lintel deterioration—a result of moisture exposure and temperature fluctuations—can weaken support points above windows or doors. Corroded or rusted lintels can compromise entire sections of a wall. Replacing or reinforcing them before major degradation occurs saves time and money. The key to overcoming these challenges is consistency: scheduling inspections and maintenance year-round rather than reacting to emergencies.

Addressing these issues early not only simplifies compliance but also enhances your building’s long-term stability. Regular collaboration with experienced facade professionals minimizes inspection stress, improves property value, and ensures success through every FISP cycle.

Hiring the Right Professionals for FISP Compliance

Selecting the right professionals for your FISP Cycle 10B inspection is one of the most important steps in maintaining compliance. Your primary expert will be a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI)—a Licensed Professional Engineer or Registered Architect authorized by the DOB to assess facade safety. Their experience and approach can determine the accuracy, timeliness, and overall success of your compliance efforts.

When choosing a QEWI, look beyond credentials and consider experience with buildings similar to yours in age, materials, and design. A professional familiar with historic masonry or complex curtain wall systems will anticipate potential issues early. During interviews, ask about their previous Cycle 10 reports, communication process, and project management style. A transparent, detail-oriented QEWI will make your compliance journey smoother and more predictable.

Cost is another consideration. FISP inspections and potential facade repairs vary greatly depending on your building’s condition and materials. While it may be tempting to choose the lowest bid, prioritizing value over price often leads to better outcomes. A thorough inspection today can prevent costly fines or emergency repairs later. Request detailed proposals outlining scope, inspection frequency, and repair recommendations before making your choice.

In addition to the QEWI, you may need structural engineers, contractors, or waterproofing specialists to handle specific repair tasks. Collaboration between these professionals is vital. The best compliance projects are those where the team communicates clearly, documents thoroughly, and keeps the property owner informed at every step. Proper coordination ensures that repairs align with both DOB requirements and the building’s long-term maintenance goals.

Working with trusted experts also builds confidence with city regulators. Experienced professionals understand filing procedures, paperwork requirements, and communication channels with DOB officials. Their expertise reduces delays and helps resolve questions efficiently. More importantly, they protect your interests while ensuring all safety standards are met.

Ultimately, hiring the right professionals turns FISP compliance into a strategic advantage. With skilled inspectors and repair teams, your property will not only meet regulatory demands but exceed them—maintaining both safety and the architectural integrity that defines New York City’s skyline.

Related: How to Ensure Compliance with NYC FISP Regulations?

Partnering with AMA Architects PC for Lasting Compliance

At AMA Architects PC, we recognize that FISP compliance is more than paperwork—it’s an expression of care for your property, tenants, and community. Our team of Qualified Exterior Wall Inspectors (QEWI) brings decades of combined experience managing NYC facade inspections, repairs, and maintenance programs. We take a proactive approach, guiding property owners through each stage of FISP Cycle 10B with precision, transparency, and expertise.

Our process begins with a comprehensive assessment tailored to your building’s structure, materials, and history. We identify immediate concerns, recommend preventative strategies, and ensure that every step aligns with DOB standards. From filing inspection reports to overseeing corrective work, we handle the details so you can focus on daily operations. Our goal is simple: to help you maintain a safe, compliant, and visually stunning property that stands the test of time.

Don't Wait for DOB Penalties. Secure Your FISP Compliance Today. Schedule a no-obligation consultation with us to assess your building's needs and create a proactive compliance plan.

If you have questions, want advice, or need a detailed assessment, we encourage you to reach out to us directly at [email protected] or call us at (212) 931-1042. Remember, a well-maintained facade not only safeguards against violations but also upholds your property’s value and appeal.