Local Law 11 / FISP inspection support in NYC
Navigate facade inspection compliance without panic - we help coordinate SWARMP filing, repairs, and DOB deadlines so you don’t miss Cycle 9
Scaffolding-Free Access fast, cost-effective close-up access using SPRAT rope access and operated boom lifts — without expensive sidewalk sheds
Hands-On QEWI Support we assist your QEWI with close-up photography, masonry sounding, and physical probes
Unsafe Condition Response immediate removal or netting of loose, spalling brick and terra-cotta to help prevent DOB violations and protect pedestrians
$11M Coverage DOB-compliant safety procedures and strong liability coverage
The mechanics of
FISP non-compliance
Missed FISP deadlines can trigger penalties, violations, repair pressure, and liability exposure — turning a routine inspection cycle into a management problem.
HOW LOCAL LAW 11 CATCHES UNPREPARED OWNERS
The law doesn’t just require an inspection — it requires a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) to perform close-up facade inspections, classify conditions as “safe,” “safe with a repair and maintenance program” (SWARMP), or “unsafe,” and file reports with the NYC Department of Buildings.
THE HIDDEN COSTS OF WAITING:
Compounding Penalties & DOB Violations:
A building that misses its February 2025 deadline can pay $12,000 in penalties by February 2026, even if it eventually files. Buildings with “unsafe” conditions that are not remediated within 90 days can face additional violations with $5,000–$25,000 fines.
Emergency Repair Premium:
Emergency facade work can cost 40–60% more than planned projects because contractors know you’re under deadline pressure. Scaffold rentals become non-negotiable. Architect inspection fees can double for expedited reviews.
Insurance & Liability Exposure:
If loose masonry falls and injures a pedestrian after you’ve been notified of the defect through a FISP inspection, your liability defense weakens substantially. Some insurers require proof of Local Law 11 compliance for coverage renewal.
THE BIG APPLE FISP protocol
We coordinate the Local Law 11 cycle from architect selection through final DOB filing, helping you meet deadlines without becoming an expert in NYC facade regulations.
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Inspection scheduling & QEWI coordination
We coordinate with NYC-licensed QEWIs specializing in Local Law 11 facade inspections — professionals who understand DOB filing requirements, identify compliant and non-compliant conditions, and prepare documentation for DOB review.
Comprehensive facade assessment
We provide close-up access — SPRAT-certified rope access technicians and aerial lift operators who give your QEWI direct access to cornices, parapets, setbacks, and facade details. For high-rise buildings requiring extended access, we coordinate scaffold installation.
SWARMP filing & repair coordination
We coordinate required repairs — providing cost estimates, scheduling facade work within DOB timelines, and completing repairs with our own SPRAT-certified crews.Big Apple Window Company at work
More than 2 decades of experience in property maintenance.
Cycle 9 compliance under pressure
See the difference. A Tribeca co-op discovered it had missed its filing deadline by 11 months — we coordinated an emergency inspection, identified critical repairs, and achieved full compliance in 73 days.
BEFORE
AFTER
Engineering specifications & guarantees
Clear specs. Straight answers. Here’s what Local Law 11 / FISP support looks like when done correctly — compare our access and mitigation process against any facade inspection support company in NYC.
FISP support process
We coordinate close-up access, inspection support, unsafe condition response, documentation, and repair scheduling so your QEWI has what they need for Local Law 11 / FISP compliance.
Access & safety technology
SPRAT Level 2/3 rope access. IPAF-certified aerial lift operators. Operated boom-lift access up to 300 ft. Fall protection per OSHA 1926.502. NYC DOB-approved rigging plans.
Repair & restoration capabilities
SPRAT-certified facade repair crews. OSHA-compliant access methods. Emergency response for unsafe conditions within 48 hours. All work is documented for DOB review.
Risk management
$11 Million Umbrella Coverage for inspection access and facade repair work. Full NY Labor Law §240/241 coverage. No Action Over exclusions. COIs provided to boards and property managers.
EXPERIENCE THE NEW STANDARD
Join 200+ landmark buildings that trust us with their Local Law 11 compliance - year after year, cycle after cycle.
While we’re on-site
Our facade specialists are trained to identify issues that often come up during Local Law 11 / FISP inspection support.
Useful information
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What is Local Law 11?
Local Law 11/98 is NYC’s Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) requiring buildings over six stories to undergo comprehensive facade inspections every five years by a licensed architect or engineer.
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What does FISP stand for?
FISP stands for Facade Inspection Safety Program. It’s NYC’s mandatory inspection cycle for commercial and residential buildings, enforced by the Department of Buildings to prevent falling debris injuries.
Our team coordinates complete FISP compliance – from architect scheduling through final DOB filing.
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How often are Local Law 11 inspections required?
Every five years. Your building’s specific deadline depends on the last digit of your block number. We’re currently in Cycle 9 (2020-2025).
Missing deadlines triggers $1,000/month penalties. We send advance reminders and handle scheduling to keep you compliant.
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What buildings does Local Law 11 apply to?
All buildings over six stories in NYC – approximately 14,000 properties including co-ops, condos, commercial towers, and mixed-use buildings. Single-family homes and buildings under six stories are exempt.
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What are SWARMP conditions?
SWARMP means “Safe with Repair and Maintenance Program.” It’s a facade condition classification requiring documented repair timelines and ongoing maintenance to address defects that aren’t immediately unsafe but need attention.
We coordinate both the inspection and the actual facade repairs, ensuring your SWARMP filing meets DOB requirements.
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How long does Local Law 11 take?
Inspection takes 1-3 days depending on building size. Filing preparation requires 2-4 weeks. If repairs are needed, add 30-90 days.
Total timeline: 6-16 weeks from start to final DOB approval. We manage every step to prevent deadline violations.
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What is a facade violation?
A DOB-issued citation for missing FISP deadlines, incomplete filings, or unsafe facade conditions discovered during inspection. Penalties range from $1,000/month for late filings to $5,000-$25,000 for unaddressed unsafe conditions.
