Parking Structure Inspections

What are Parking Structure Inspection Services?

Parking structure inspection services involve assessing the condition, safety, and structural integrity of parking facilities through visual inspections, load testing, and non-destructive evaluation techniques. They help identify issues such as cracks, corrosion, or drainage problems, ensuring the structure remains safe for use and compliant with regulations. Regular inspections are important to prevent accidents, reduce long-term repair costs, and extend the facility’s lifespan.

Overview of Parking Structure Inspections

In New York City, parking structure inspections are required under Local Law 126 of 2021 to ensure the safety, structural integrity, and compliance of parking facilities. These inspections are critical for identifying potential hazards and maintaining public safety in aging structures.

Key Requirements

Mandatory Inspections

• All parking structures, including stand-alone garages and parking areas within buildings, must undergo inspections every six years.

• Inspections must be conducted by a Qualified Parking Structure Inspector (QPSI).

Inspection Scope

• Visual assessments for cracks, spalling, corrosion, and other structural issues.

• Evaluation of load-bearing capacity and overall stability.

• Checks for proper waterproofing and drainage to prevent long-term damage.

Reporting and Filing

• A detailed condition assessment report must be filed with the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) by the QPSI.

• Reports must include photographic evidence, descriptions of issues, and recommended actions.

Parking Structure Inspection Dates in NYC

Local Law 126 of 2021 mandates periodic inspections of NYC parking structures every six years to ensure structural integrity and safety.

Sub-Cycles

• 1A: Manhattan Districts 1–7 → Jan 1, 2022 – Dec 31, 2023

• 1B: Manhattan Districts 8–12 + all Brooklyn Districts → Jan 1, 2024 – Dec 31, 2025

• 1C: All Bronx, Queens, Staten Island Districts → Jan 1, 2026 – Dec 31, 2027

As of January 2025, Sub-cycle 1B is currently active, requiring reports by December 31, 2025.

Initial Observations Report for Parking Structures (NYC)

The Initial Observations Report is required under Local Law 126. It provides a preliminary assessment of a parking structure’s condition before the full report is filed.

Key Points

• Purpose: Identify visible hazards early.

• Timing: Must be submitted to DOB within the specified cycle.

• Content: Includes property details, defects like cracks/spalling, and photos.

Safety Classification for Parking Structures

• Safe: No visible issues, fully safe for continued use.

• Safe with Repairs/Engineering Monitoring (SREM): Minor defects, requires monitoring/repairs in a specified timeframe.

• Unsafe: Significant structural defects, immediate risk to public safety; urgent measures required.

Steps for Compliance with Parking Structure Inspections (NYC Local Law 126)

1. Determine Applicability: Confirm if your property qualifies under Local Law 126.

2. Hire a Qualified Professional Engineer (PE).

3. Conduct Initial Assessment: Identify cracks, corrosion, or water infiltration.

4. File the Initial Report: Submit to DOB, categorizing structure as Safe, SREM, or Unsafe.

5. Address Unsafe Conditions Immediately.

6. Implement SWRM Repairs (if applicable).

7. Maintain Records.

8. Schedule Periodic Inspections every 6 years.

Fines and Penalties for Non-Compliance

• Failure to File Inspection Report: Up to $3,000 annually per missed report.

• Failure to Address Unsafe Conditions: Significant fines, often combined with required emergency repairs.

At Post & Lintel, Our Parking Structure Inspection Services Include:

• Visual Assessments (cracks, spalling, corrosion, water damage).

• Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) (radar/ultrasonic scanning).

• Structural Load Analysis.

• Waterproofing & Drainage Inspections.

• Code Compliance Checks (including ADA).

• Repair & Maintenance Recommendations.