Facade inspections in New York City are no longer a routine compliance task. With stricter enforcement, aging buildings, and new requirements like annual parapet observations, property owners need to stay ahead to avoid costly violations and delays.
Definition: What is FISP in NYC?
The Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) requires buildings taller than six stories in New York City to have their exterior walls and appurtenances inspected by a qualified professional every five years to ensure public safety.
At a Glance
- FISP inspections are required every 5 years for buildings over six stories
- Annual parapet inspections are now required for buildings with parapets fronting public rights-of-way (effective 2024)
- Facade issues are treated as public safety concerns, not cosmetic problems — enforcement is active
- Always start with a licensed engineer or architect before engaging a contractor
- Missed deadlines trigger escalating fines with little advance warning under automated enforcement
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FISP vs. Annual Parapet Inspection — What’s Required
| Requirement | Applies To | Frequency | Qualified Inspector |
|---|---|---|---|
| FISP (Facade Inspection Safety Program) | Buildings taller than 6 stories | Every 5 years | Licensed architect or engineer (QEWI) |
| Annual Parapet Inspection | Buildings with parapets fronting a public right-of-way (effective 2024) | Every year | Qualified professional per DOB guidelines |
FISP Inspection Outcomes — What Each Status Means
| Status | What It Means | Next Step Required |
|---|---|---|
| Safe | Facade is in good condition; no repairs required | File the report; schedule next cycle |
| Safe with a Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP) | Facade is safe now but conditions exist that must be repaired before the next cycle | Complete repairs within the FISP cycle deadline |
| Unsafe | Facade poses an immediate risk to public safety | Immediate remediation required; sidewalk shed or other protective measures while work is completed |
Elements Covered in a FISP Inspection
| Facade Element | Separate Assessment Needed? | Common Issues |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior masonry / brick | Included in FISP | Spalling, cracking, failed mortar joints |
| Parapets | FISP + annual inspection (effective 2024) | Deterioration, instability, missing cap stones |
| Cornices and decorative elements | Included in FISP | Loose sections, water infiltration, structural failure |
| Balconies and terraces | May require separate structural evaluation | Structural deterioration, connection failures |
| Windows and lintels | Included in FISP where applicable | Failed seals, loose lintels, water infiltration |
Consequences of Missing FISP Deadlines
| Consequence | Detail |
|---|---|
| Violation issued by DOB | Missing a FISP filing deadline triggers an automatic violation on the property record |
| Escalating fines | DOB’s automated systems issue penalties that compound — delays cost significantly more than timely compliance |
| Sidewalk shed requirements | “Unsafe” designations require protective measures immediately — shed installation and maintenance is a significant ongoing cost |
| Impact on financing | Open FISP violations appear in due diligence and can affect refinancing or sales |
| Legal liability | If a facade failure causes injury, an open FISP violation significantly increases owner liability exposure |
Always start with the engineer, not the contractor. The most common and costly mistake in FISP compliance is engaging a contractor before a licensed engineer or architect assesses the building. The engineer determines what work is required and how it must be documented. Starting with a contractor — even a good one — often results in work that can’t be properly filed, incomplete reports, and filings that need to be redone. Engineer first, always.
Need Help with FISP Compliance?
All Boro Expediter helps property owners navigate FISP filings, parapet inspections, and facade violation resolution across all five boroughs. Contact All Boro Expediter to get your facade compliance reviewed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often are facade inspections required in NYC under FISP?
Buildings taller than six stories must be inspected every five years under the Facade Inspection Safety Program. The city assigns each building to a filing cycle — missing the deadline for your cycle triggers a DOB violation.
What is the new annual parapet inspection rule in NYC?
Effective 2024, buildings with parapets fronting a public right-of-way must undergo annual parapet observations by a qualified professional. This is a separate requirement from the five-year FISP inspection and applies to a much broader category of buildings, including those under six stories.
Do balconies require a separate inspection from FISP?
In many cases, yes. Balconies and terraces may require separate structural assessment depending on their design, age, and condition. Your qualified inspector should evaluate whether the balcony scope falls within the FISP filing or requires independent documentation.
What happens if my building is designated “Unsafe” under FISP?
An “Unsafe” designation requires immediate remediation. The building must erect a sidewalk shed or other protective measures to protect the public while repairs are completed. The DOB is notified and the status remains on the public record until repairs are completed and a follow-up inspection confirms compliance.
Should I hire a contractor or engineer first for facade repairs?
Always start with a licensed engineer or architect. They assess the building, identify the scope of required repairs, and determine how work must be documented for the FISP filing. Starting with a contractor before an engineer results in work that often can’t be properly documented for the filing — wasting time and money.
