What is a Parapet Inspection for Local Law 126 compliance?
Parapet inspections are the newest addition to New York City’s extensive building safety regulations, aimed at ensuring the structural integrity and safety of buildings across the city. Starting in 2024, building owners are required to have an observation of their parapets in accordance with requirements. This is a yearly requirement, due by December 31.
When is it Due and Who is Required to File?
The new mandate kicks in starting January 1, 2024. All property owners with buildings featuring parapets are required to conduct these inspections and file a report with the city. Exceptions to this law are detached 1- or 2- family homes, or buildings with a fence or other barrier preventing access to the exterior wall.
When is the parapet observation due?
Inspections of parapets must be carried out and a report of the observations must be maintained on record by the end of each year, December 31.
What is a parapet?
A parapet is the extension of a wall at the edge of a roof, terrace, balcony, or other structure, which can be prone to deterioration over time due to weather, environmental factors, and wear and tear. This inspection focuses on evaluating the condition of these structures, identifying potential risks, and ensuring that they are properly maintained to prevent accidents and enhance the safety of all New Yorkers.
Owners of parapets fronting the public right-of-way, regardless of height, are required to complete this inspection.
Who is exempt from the LL126 parapet requirement?
Detached 1- or 2-family homes, and buildings with a fence or other barrier preventing access to the exterior wall are not required to comply with the LL126 annual parapet observation.
What is the new NYC parapet inspection requirement?
Starting January 1, 2024, building owners in New York City are required to conduct annual inspections of parapets on buildings facing the public right-of-way. This rule, established under Local Law 126 is designed to enhance safety and ensure the structural integrity of parapets that are accessible or visible to the public.
Who is Affected?
This rule is applicable to all buildings located within New York City, regardless of their height, as long as they have parapets that are visible from the public right-of-way. However, detached 1- or 2-family homes and buildings equipped with barriers that prevent public access to the exterior wall are exempt from this requirement.
What constitutes a “public right-of-way”?
A building’s exterior wall is considered part of the public right-of-way if the general public can approach and access the facade, even if the wall is located on private property. Additionally, if a building has barriers positioned within a certain distance of the exterior wall, it may still require inspection under this regulation.
Who can perform parapet inspections?
Inspections must be carried out by qualified professionals capable of identifying hazards. These professionals can include bricklayers, masons, building superintendents, handymen, architects, engineers, or inspectors authorized by New York State. Individuals with relevant expertise in building safety may also be eligible to conduct the inspections.
What does the parapet inspection involve?
Inspections must be thorough and cover the entire parapet. This includes visual assessments using scaffolds, boom trucks, or roof access. Inspectors check for signs of structural damage such as cracks, displacement, missing bricks, deteriorated mortar joints, or loose materials. The stability of attached elements, such as telecommunications equipment and handrails, is also reviewed to ensure safety.
What if my building has a fence, wall, or other barrier?
Buildings that have a continuous barrier positioned within a distance equal to or less than half the height of the exterior wall are still subject to the inspection. However, if the barrier extends beyond that distance, the building may not need to be inspected.
Are cornices included in parapet inspections?
Cornices attached directly to parapet walls must be inspected, as they are considered part of the parapet structure. However, if a cornice is attached to a building’s front wall or roof without a parapet behind it, it is exempt from the annual inspection requirement.
What steps should be taken if hazardous conditions are identified?
If an inspection reveals hazardous conditions, the inspector must immediately notify the New York City Department of Buildings by calling 311 and sending an email to parapets@buildings.nyc.gov. The building owner is required to take immediate action by installing public safety measures such as sidewalk sheds or fencing. Repairs must be completed within 90 days, and protective measures must remain in place until the issues are fully resolved.
What are the reporting requirements for parapet inspections?
Building owners must prepare detailed reports following each parapet inspection. These reports should include the building address, the inspector’s details, a description of the parapet’s condition, and photos documenting the inspection. Any repairs or actions taken must also be noted. If the building is part of the Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), the FISP report can be used to satisfy the parapet inspection requirement.
When is the deadline for conducting the annual inspection?
Parapet inspections must be completed, and reports prepared, by December 31 of each year.
How long should inspection records be kept?
Owners are required to maintain inspection reports for a minimum of six years and must provide them to the Department of Buildings upon request.
What happens if you find unsafe conditions?
The individual conducting the inspection is required to alert the Department of Buildings without delay. The property owner is obligated to swiftly implement measures to protect the public. This may include the installation of sidewalk sheds, fences, and safety netting or other necessary precautions to ensure public safety. Furthermore, the owner must address and rectify the identified unsafe condition. All hazardous conditions identified during the inspection must be corrected within a 90-day period following the initial notification to the Department. Measures taken to protect the public must remain in effect until the unsafe conditions have been fully resolved.