Experts In NYC’s Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP)

We are an architectural firm that specializes in NYC’s Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) formerly known as Local Law 11/98. The Department of Buildings (DOB) requires Owners of buildings with more than 6 stories above grade (or 6 stories with a basement where at least one façade is higher than 6 stories) must have the exterior walls and appurtenances inspected every 5 years as per NYC’s building code and new façade rules in effect. If not, the property will accrue façade civil penalties (FCP’s) and building violations for nonconformance.

NYC also requires that a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI), approved by the DOB, is conducting/supervising/witnessing the facade inspection.

As a Registered Architect and QEWI, we help Owners and Property Managers stay in compliance with FISP, which includes inspecting their buildings and preparing the required Technical Report (TR6). It states the compliance status of the building, which is either Safe, Safe with a Repair and Maintenance (SWARMP), or Unsafe.

More About Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP)

HOW ARE CONDITIONS CLASSIFIED?

After initial inspection(s), the building is given one of three safety ratings:

SAFE - No issues that affect the public safety were found.

Safe With A Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP) - Minor issues exist and are not immediately dangerous, but could possibly turn unsafe before the next cycle and MUST be repaired within a set timeframe.

UNSAFE - Conditions that pose a risk to the safety of the public. Immediate action is required, and protective measure have to be installed to protect the public (e.g. Sidewalk Sheds and Construction Fencing).

Typical items that could be reported as SWARMP or UNSAFE:

Loose/cracked bricks, mortar, or concrete
Damaged window sills
Damaged lintels

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FISP CYCLE 10 FILING DEADLINES

Buildings are grouped according to the last digit of their block number. For the current Cycle (Cycle 10), buildings will have overlapping two-year windows for fillings.

SUB-CYCLE A:

Block numbers ending in 4, 5, 6, or 9
Reports must be filled between February 21, 2025 and February 21, 2027.

SUB-CYCLE B:

Block numbers ending in 0,7, or 8
Reports must be filed between February 21, 2026 and February 21, 2028.

SUB-CYCLE C:

Block numbers ending in 1, 2, or 3
Reports must be filed between February 21, 2027 and February 21, 2029.

The QEWI or engineer/architect will file an Amended Report with the DOB once all unsafe conditions have been repaired, which would then change the status of the building from UNSAFE to SWARMP or SAFE.