Local Law 11, also known as the Façade Inspection and Safety Program (FISP), is a regulation in New York City aimed at ensuring the safety and structural integrity of building exteriors. If you are a potential purchaser of a property in NYC, it’s crucial to be aware of this law, as it can impact both the safety of the building and the costs associated with ownership. Here are the key points you need to keep in mind:
- Applicability: Local Law 11 applies to buildings that are six stories or higher, located in New York City. As a potential purchaser, you should check if the building falls under the purview of this law.
- Inspection cycle: The law mandates that building owners must have their building’s exterior walls and appurtenances inspected by a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) every five years. The city is divided into different cycles, and each cycle has a specific time frame for inspection and filing.
- Inspection reports: After the inspection, the QEWI must submit a report to the Department of Buildings (DOB) with one of the following classifications:
- Safe: No issues found.
- Safe With a Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP): Minor issues that need to be addressed within a specified time frame.
- Unsafe: Significant problems that pose a threat to public safety and require immediate attention.
- Repair work and deadlines: If the inspection report indicates that repair work is needed (SWARMP or Unsafe), the building owner is responsible for addressing the issues and submitting proof of completed repairs to the DOB. Failure to comply may result in fines and penalties.
- Costs: As a potential purchaser, you should be aware that the inspection, repair, and maintenance costs associated with Local Law 11 compliance can be significant. These costs will depend on the building’s size, age, and condition. It is essential to factor in these expenses when considering the purchase of a property subject to Local Law 11.
In summary, Local Law 11 is an essential regulation to ensure the safety of building exteriors in New York City. As a potential purchaser, you should be aware of the inspection and repair requirements, as well as the associated costs, to make an informed decision about your property investment.
