Local Law 11 / FISP

What is Local Law 11 / FISP?

Local Law 11, officially known as the Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), is a critical regulation in New York City aimed at maintaining the safety and integrity of building exteriors. It applies to all buildings over six stories tall and requires property owners to conduct regular inspections of facades and exterior walls every five years. The goal of the law is to identify and address potential hazards, such as loose masonry, cracks, or other signs of deterioration, that could endanger public safety.

Failure to comply with Local Law 11 can result in fines, legal liabilities, and more importantly, risks to public safety. Building owners must submit comprehensive inspection reports to the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB), detailing the condition of their facades and outlining required repairs or maintenance.

An overview of the FISP Cycle 10

FISP Cycle 10, part of the NYC Department of Buildings’ Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), began on February 21, 2025. The program is essential for maintaining the safety of building facades and applies to structures taller than six stories.

• Sub-Cycles: Cycle 10 is divided into three Sub-Cycles: 10A, 10B, and 10C.

• Sub-Cycle Assignment: A building’s Sub-Cycle is determined by the last digit of its block number.

• Deadlines: Each Sub-Cycle has specific due dates for submitting FISP reports. Building owners must adhere to these deadlines to remain in compliance.

This inspection cycle focuses on identifying and addressing facade maintenance and safety concerns to protect pedestrians and occupants.

FISP Cycle 10 Dates

The deadlines for each Sub-Cycle are as follows:

• Sub-Cycle 10A: Buildings with block numbers ending in 4, 5, 6, or 9.

  • Filing Period: February 21, 2025 – February 21, 2026.

• Sub-Cycle 10B: Buildings with block numbers ending in 0, 7, or 8.

  • Filing Period: February 21, 2026 – February 21, 2027.

• Sub-Cycle 10C: Buildings with block numbers ending in 1, 2, or 3.

  • Filing Period: February 21, 2027 – February 21, 2028.

Building owners must file reports within these timelines to comply with NYC DOB regulations.

The Classifications for Local Law 11

Under Local Law 11, building facade conditions are categorized as Safe, SWARMP, or Unsafe:

1. Safe Conditions

   • The facade is in good condition with no issues requiring repair or maintenance.

   • No immediate or potential risks to public safety.

2. SWARMP (Safe With a Repair and Maintenance Program)

   • Minor issues or defects not immediately hazardous but that may become unsafe if left unaddressed.

   • Repairs must be completed within the recommended timeline (often 1–5 years).

3. Unsafe Conditions

   • Serious defects or damage that pose an immediate threat to public safety (e.g., loose masonry, cracked walls, unstable structures).

   • Requires immediate protective measures (sidewalk sheds, scaffolding) followed by urgent repairs.

The General Steps for Compliance with Local Law 11 (FISP)

• Determine Applicability: Confirm if your building is over six stories and subject to Local Law 11.

• Hire a Qualified Inspector: Engage a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI), such as a licensed architect or engineer.

• Inspection: QEWI conducts a hands-on exam of the facade, focusing on vulnerable areas like balconies, parapets, and masonry.

• Filing the FISP Report: Submit the inspection report to the NYC DOB, classifying the facade as Safe, SWARMP, or Unsafe.

• Address Unsafe Conditions: Install protective measures and complete repairs promptly, verified by the QEWI.

• Perform SWARMP Repairs: Complete required repairs within the timeline stated in the FISP report.

Typical Penalties for Non-Compliance with Local Law 11

Failure to comply can result in:

• Initial Fine: $1,000 for not filing the required inspection report.

• Monthly Penalty: $250 for each month the report remains unfiled.

• Daily Fine for Unsafe Conditions: Up to $1,000 per day if unsafe conditions are not repaired within the specified timeframe.

Over the years, Post & Lintel has supported projects involving:

• Facade condition documentation

• Close-range exterior observations

• FISP process coordination

• Documentation support for reporting

• Coordination of licensed professionals

• Facade repair coordination

• Masonry and waterproofing coordination

• Construction and repair management

• Compliance-related scheduling support

• Preventive maintenance planning