Guide to FISP (Local Law 11) Inspections and how Top Team can help
Understanding local law 11 inspections
New York City’s Local Law 11, officially known as the Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), is a critical regulation designed to keep buildings safe for residents, workers, and pedestrians. If your building is taller than six stories, regular facade inspections aren’t just recommended, they’re required. The law ensures that exterior walls, balconies, ledges, and other structural elements remain secure and well-maintained.
Skipping these inspections? That could mean serious fines from the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) and even greater safety risks down the line. That’s why building owners turn to experts: not just for inspections, but for crucial maintenance like professional window and facade cleaning. A clean exterior helps inspectors get a clear view of the building’s condition, making the process smoother and more efficient.
For official details, visit the NYC DOB - FISP page.
Breaking down the inspection cycles
Local Law 11 inspections follow a set schedule, with the current cycle, Cycle 10, running from February 21, 2025, through February 21, 2030. Buildings are categorized into three sub-cycles based on their block number:
Sub-cycle 10A: February 21, 2025 – February 21, 2027 (buildings with block numbers ending in 4, 5, 6, or 9)
Sub-cycle 10B: February 21, 2026 – February 21, 2028 (buildings with block numbers ending in 0, 7, or 8)
Sub-cycle 10C: February 21, 2027 – February 21, 2029 (buildings with block numbers ending in 1, 2, or 3)
Knowing your building’s sub-cycle is essential to avoid last-minute rushes, unexpected penalties, or compliance issues. You can check your block number through the NYC Department of Buildings website.
Getting your building inspection-ready
A smooth Local Law 11 inspection starts with proper preparation. Here’s what building owners can do to get ahead:
- Hire a qualified inspector: Only a DOB-approved Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) can conduct the inspection.
- Check for visible damage: Cracks, loose materials, and water stains could signal bigger structural problems.
- Schedule necessary repairs: Addressing minor issues now can prevent costly violations later.
- Keep windows and facades clean: Dirt buildup can hide critical damage, making it harder for inspectors to assess the building properly. Professional facade cleaning ensures a thorough inspection.
- Maintain detailed records: Keeping a history of past inspections and repairs streamlines the compliance process.
At Top Team window cleaning, we work closely with property managers to keep building exteriors in top conditions, guaranteeing no detail is missed during inspections.
The risks of non-compliance
Ignoring Local Law 11 requirements doesn’t just put your building at risk, it can hit your finances too. Here’s what happens when property owners fail to comply:
Fines: Late or missing reports can lead to penalties starting at $1,000 per month until compliance is met.
Violation notices: Unsafe conditions result in Class 1 violations, which require immediate repairs.
Rising repair costs: The longer issues go unaddressed, the more expensive the fixes become.
Safety concerns: A neglected facade poses risks to pedestrians and tenants, potentially leading to lawsuits.
DOB enforcement: The city may require sidewalk sheds, stop-work orders, or additional compliance measures.
Learn more about DOB penalties here.
How Top Team helps keep your building inspection-ready
Staying compliant with Local Law 11 starts with a well-maintained facade. Building owners trust us for their FISP inspection needs due to our commitment to excellence across several key areas. Our team comprises experienced professionals adept at conducting thorough critical examinations, from complex high-rise facades to intricate architectural details. We adhere rigorously to top-tier safety standards, ensuring full compliance with all NYC regulations at every stage of our operations. Finally, our reliable service is designed to work seamlessly with your schedule, minimizing any disruption to tenants and ongoing business activities.
Working with us provides several key benefits, including comprehensive inspections, ensuring thorough examinations with cavity wall probing and detailed close-up inspections; NYDOB expertise, guaranteeing full compliance with the latest FISP regulations; Detailed reporting, providing clear, concise reports with actionable recommendations; a seamless process, managing all aspects of the inspection and filing process to minimize your stress; Proactive solutions, identifying potential issues early to prevent costly repairs and violations; and a safety-first approach, prioritizing safety in all our inspection procedures.
What is the process
Our inspection process is designed to be efficient and thorough. It begins with an initial consultation to discuss your building's history and specific needs. We then proceed with access planning to determine the optimal access methods, such as scaffolding, lifts, or rope access. next, our QEWI's conduct a critical examination, including visual and close-up examinations. We meticulously document all findings with written descriptions and photographic evidence. If applicable, we perform cavity wall probing to assess wall tie conditions. We then compile a comprehensive FISP report, classifying the building's condition. Finally, we handle the seamless filing of your FISP report with the NYDOB and provide clear and actionable repair recommendations.
Stay compliant – get your consultation with us
Local Law 11 compliance doesn’t have to be stressful. A well-maintained facade makes inspections easier and keeps your building looking its best. Don’t wait until the last minute – schedule a consultation with Top Team window cleaning today. Contact us to learn more about how we can help keep your property safe, compliant, and looking great year-round.
For additional resources, visit:
Facade Safety Program Overview
