Question 1

What is Local Law 11 in NYC?

Accepted Answer

Local Law 11 in NYC is a building code requirement that mandates buildings over six stories to undergo facade inspections every five years. The law requires a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) to examine the building's exterior walls and appurtenances to ensure public safety and identify any unsafe conditions that could pose a hazard to pedestrians.

Question 2

Which buildings need to comply with Local Law 11 in NYC?

Accepted Answer

Buildings taller than six stories in New York City must comply with Local Law 11. This includes residential, commercial, and mixed-use buildings. The inspection covers all exterior walls, balconies, railings, parapets, and other facade components that could present a safety risk if they deteriorate.

Question 3

How often do you need Local Law 11 inspections in NYC?

Accepted Answer

Local Law 11 inspections must be conducted every five years in NYC. The inspection cycle is based on the last digit of the building's block number, ensuring inspections are staggered throughout the city. The current cycle is Cycle 10, running from 2025 to 2029.

Question 4

What happens if you don't comply with Local Law 11 NYC?

Accepted Answer

Failure to comply with Local Law 11 in NYC can result in significant penalties including daily fines starting at $1,000 per month, violation notices from the Department of Buildings, and potential legal liability if facade conditions cause injury. Buildings with unsafe conditions may have sidewalk sheds installed at the owner's expense.

Question 5

Who can perform Local Law 11 inspections in New York City?

Accepted Answer

Local Law 11 inspections must be performed by a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI), which includes licensed Professional Engineers (PE) or Registered Architects (RA) with specific experience in facade inspection. Blue Rock NYC works with licensed contractors and qualified inspectors to ensure full compliance.

Question 6

How much does a Local Law 11 inspection cost in NYC?

Accepted Answer

Local Law 11 inspection costs in NYC typically range from $5,000 to $25,000 depending on building size, height, and accessibility requirements. Repair costs are separate and vary based on the extent of facade damage found during the inspection.

Question 7

What happens if my building fails a Local Law 11 inspection?

Accepted Answer

If your building receives an UNSAFE designation, you must immediately install a sidewalk shed and begin repairs. A SWARMP designation requires specified repairs within the current five-year cycle. Blue Rock handles the full remediation process including scaffold installation, facade repairs, and DOB filing.

Question 8

Do I need a Local Law 11 inspection for a 5-story building?

Accepted Answer

No. Local Law 11 only applies to buildings taller than six stories in New York City. Buildings six stories or fewer are not subject to FISP inspection requirements, though general building maintenance obligations still apply.

Question 9

What is the penalty for not complying with Local Law 11?

Accepted Answer

Penalties for non-compliance start at $1,000 per month for late filings and increase with continued violations. The NYC Department of Buildings can also install a sidewalk shed at the owner's expense and pursue legal action for unsafe conditions that endanger the public.

Question 10

How long does a Local Law 11 inspection take to complete?

Accepted Answer

The inspection itself typically takes one to three days depending on building size and access requirements. If scaffolding or a swing stage is needed for close-up inspection, setup adds additional time. The full process from inspection to DOB filing typically takes four to eight weeks.

Question 11

What is the difference between Local Law 11 and FISP?

Accepted Answer

They are the same program. Local Law 11 is the common name used by building owners and contractors, while FISP (Facade Inspection Safety Program) is the official name used by the NYC Department of Buildings. The program was established by Local Law 11 of 1998.

Question 12

When is my building's Local Law 11 inspection cycle due?

Accepted Answer

Your inspection cycle is determined by the last digit of your building's block number. Cycle 10 deadlines: Sub-cycle A (block numbers ending in 4, 5, 6) closes February 21, 2026. Sub-cycle B (ending in 7, 8, 9) closes February 21, 2027. Sub-cycle C (ending in 0, 1, 2, 3) closes February 21, 2028.

Question 13

What is the difference between SAFE, SWARMP, and UNSAFE designations?

Accepted Answer

These are the three possible outcomes of a Local Law 11 inspection. SAFE means no immediate action required beyond normal maintenance. SWARMP (Safe With A Repair and Maintenance Program) means repairs must be completed within the current inspection cycle. UNSAFE means immediate action is required — pedestrian protection must be installed and repairs begun right away.

Sub-Cycle	Block Number Ends In	Filing Deadline	Status
A	4, 5, 6	February 21, 2026	Urgent
B	7, 8, 9	February 21, 2027	Upcoming
C	0, 1, 2, 3	February 21, 2028	Upcoming

What Is Local Law 11 NYC?

Local Law 11 NYC — Complete Guide for Building Owners

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