Posted on September 15th, 2025.

 

New York City’s skyline is more than a collection of buildings—it’s a shared space where safety, design, and history intersect. Behind the architectural beauty lies a regulatory system designed to protect both the structures themselves and the people who live and work around them. The Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) is central to this system, requiring regular inspections and maintenance for buildings over six stories.

 

These regulations didn’t appear overnight. They developed after incidents involving falling façade materials caused injuries and fatalities. What began as Local Law 10 in 1980 evolved into Local Law 11 in 1998, creating the FISP framework that still governs inspections today. The law shifted building management from occasional checks to structured oversight, recognizing the risks of aging facades in a dense urban environment.

 

For property owners and managers, compliance is not only about avoiding penalties but also about preserving property value and contributing to public safety. Understanding the program’s requirements, timelines, and documentation demands is critical. Compliance is an ongoing responsibility that requires planning, partnerships with professionals, and a proactive approach to building maintenance.

 

NYC Facade Inspection & Safety Program

The Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) originated as Local Law 10, a response to concerns about deteriorating building exteriors. Local Law 11 strengthened the requirements, mandating more frequent and detailed inspections for buildings over six stories. This evolution reflects New York City’s commitment to reducing risks for residents and pedestrians.

 

Under the program, owners must engage a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) to assess the building envelope. The inspector evaluates all exterior walls, balconies, cornices, and appurtenances before classifying the façade as Safe, Safe With a Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP), or Unsafe. These classifications trigger specific obligations, ranging from continued monitoring to immediate repair.

 

Each inspection occurs on a five-year cycle. Reports are filed with the Department of Buildings (DOB), along with applicable fees. Failing to comply can result in fines, violations, and, in cases of Unsafe conditions, emergency measures such as sidewalk sheds. The process underscores that façade safety is not optional; it is a continuous part of responsible ownership.

 

The law emphasizes preventive action rather than reactive repairs. By requiring recurring inspections, the city ensures issues are identified before they escalate. This proactive framework has reduced the risk of façade-related incidents and instilled a culture of accountability in property management.

 

Ultimately, the program’s design balances architectural preservation with modern safety needs. By integrating compliance into regular operations, building owners help ensure New York’s skyline remains safe, resilient, and enduring.

 

Demystifying NYC FISP Requirements for Property Owners

Compliance begins with selecting a qualified QEWI. Only licensed engineers and registered architects with specialized credentials can perform inspections under FISP. Their expertise ensures that assessments capture both obvious damage and hidden risks. Choosing the right professional lays the groundwork for accurate reporting and effective maintenance planning.

 

Once an inspection is complete, the QEWI categorizes the façade’s condition. A Safe classification allows the building to continue without immediate work, while a SWARMP designation requires repairs before the next cycle ends. An Unsafe finding demands immediate corrective action, often alongside temporary protections like scaffolding. Each category comes with documentation and repair schedules that must be met.

 

Owners are responsible for submitting the QEWI’s report to the DOB within the required timeline. Reports must include photographs, detailed notes, and supporting documentation of the façade’s condition. Incomplete or late filings can lead to violations and fines, adding unnecessary costs to ownership. Organized recordkeeping—tracking inspections, repairs, and follow-up actions—is essential for long-term compliance.

 

Beyond filing, property owners must ensure repairs are executed correctly and on time. Contractors experienced with façade work under NYC standards are critical partners in this process. Documentation of completed work, signed by contractors, provides additional assurance if questions arise during future cycles.

 

Although the program is regulatory in nature, it also supports good property stewardship. Proactive compliance enhances building safety, preserves structural integrity, and safeguards property value. For owners, the investment in inspections and maintenance is ultimately less costly than emergency repairs or litigation resulting from noncompliance.

 

Practical Steps to Navigate NYC FISP Inspections

The first step is scheduling a comprehensive inspection early in the five-year cycle. Waiting until the deadline risks rushed work and higher costs. An early inspection also leaves time for any required repairs to be planned and executed without pressure.

 

During the inspection, the QEWI examines all exterior surfaces, including balconies, parapets, and decorative features. Photographs and notes are compiled into the final report, which forms the foundation for the filing. Clear communication with the inspector ensures that owners understand the findings and can budget accordingly.

 

If the report identifies conditions classified as SWARMP or Unsafe, prompt action is required. Repairs should be prioritized, with contractors selected based on their familiarity with façade safety protocols. Maintaining an open line of communication between the QEWI, contractors, and building management helps prevent missteps or delays.

 

Documentation is central to the process. Owners should keep records of all inspections, repair contracts, invoices, and confirmations of completed work. This paper trail not only satisfies compliance requirements but also serves as a valuable resource in future cycles.

 

Filing the final report with the DOB is the culmination of the cycle. Ensuring accuracy, paying fees on time, and monitoring the DOB’s response helps avoid penalties. A culture of compliance emerges when these steps become part of regular property management routines.

 

The program ultimately supports both safety and asset value. By treating inspections as opportunities rather than burdens, owners create a proactive maintenance strategy that benefits tenants, investors, and the public alike.

 

Related: Proper Facade Maintenance: Why Regular Inspections Are Key

 

Building Safer Futures Through Compliance

NYC’s FISP requirements were designed with public safety at their core. Compliance ensures that buildings remain structurally sound and that risks to pedestrians and tenants are minimized. While the process requires investment, it pays dividends in stability, reputation, and property value.

 

Each cycle provides insight into the health of a building’s exterior. Addressing issues promptly prevents deterioration and preserves architectural features. For many properties, this ongoing care reduces the likelihood of unexpected costs while reinforcing trust among residents and neighbors.

 

Moreover, this program encourages you to embrace technological solutions that streamline inspections and reports, ensuring a seamless flow of information necessary for decision-making. These initiatives demonstrate a modern approach to property management that aligns with regulatory expectations and enhances operational efficiency.

 

Looking beyond compliance, consider the program as a springboard for adopting sustainable practices that align with your long-term vision for the property. Green building technologies can be integrated into these maintenance protocols, creating synergies between compliance and sustainability, ultimately supporting the city’s environmental goals.

 

By understanding the requirements detailed in the FISP guidelines, you can curate a building management strategy that prioritizes safety, performance, and sustainability, securing the structural—and reputational—integrity of your property. Every inspection cycle secures your building against unforeseen structural failures, reducing liabilities and ensuring peace of mind. With this approach, you embrace an ongoing commitment to the vibrancy and legacy of New York City's urban fabric.

 

Keep in mind the considerable benefits of forming partnerships with expert facade professionals, ensuring operational excellence and safety. As a crucial partner, AMA Architects, PC offers unparalleled expertise in navigating FISP regulations and implementing measures that enhance both compliance and safety.

 

With a team of seasoned professionals at your disposal, you receive guidance that is indispensable for aligning with regulatory demands and optimizing your building’s performance. By choosing the best, you're securing a future-proof approach to property management that values safety, performance, and beauty.

 

Take a step towards safeguarding your investment by scheduling a FISP inspection today. Ensure Your Building’s Safety Today!

 

Don't wait until the last minute—contact us at [email protected] or (212) 931-1042 and stay compliant with NYC regulations. Together, let’s build a safe, reliable, and enduring architectural legacy.