New Rules for Parapet Wall Inspections_ What Every Property Owner Should Know

1. New Rules for Parapet Wall Inspections: What Every Property Owner Should Know

2. Parapet walls are essential components that sit atop buildings, providing protection, aesthetic appeal, and most importantly, safety. These low walls are essential barriers on rooftops, balconies, and terraces in New York City, but if left unattended, they can eventually become dangerous. Stricter and more frequent inspections of parapet walls are now required under new laws, which prioritize building safety. Property owners must be aware of these regulations in order to maintain compliance and safeguard public safety.

3. The adoption of Local Law 126 necessitates annual parapet wall inspection in NYC for most buildings. This law seeks to prevent hazardous situations like collapse or falling debris by identifying structural problems early. Property owners in the city are now required to schedule parapet inspections by certified experts who evaluate the walls’ overall condition and make sure any essential repairs are completed as soon as possible. 1. Overview of NYC Requirements for Parapet Wall Inspection

4. Enacted in 2021 and going into effect on January 1, 2024, Local Law 126 mandates an annual inspection of all NYC buildings that have parapets facing a public right-of-way. With the exception of detached one- or two-family residences and structures protected by obstacles that limit access to the parapet, the regulation is applicable regardless of the height of the building. By mandating that building owners periodically inspect their parapets for indications of instability or degradation, the law aims to improve public safety. This yearly examination aids in preventing mishaps involving loose or falling parapet elements that can endanger pedestrians or cause damage to adjacent property.

5. 2. What Are the Components of a Local Law 126 Parapet Inspection? When performing a Local Law 126 parapet inspection, an expert looks at the parapet’s condition more thoroughly than just visually. Examining the parapet’s plumbness—making sure the wall never leans more than 1/8 inch from perpendicular—is one of the main areas of attention. • Evaluating material issues such as fractures, displacement, loose or missing bricks or coping stones, spalling, and deteriorating mortar joints. • Examining the structural soundness of attached components such as railings, antennae, flashing, coping stones, and signage. • Compiling a thorough report for the building owner by recording all findings with written notes and photos.

6. Depending on accessibility, roof access, scaffolding, or drone technology may be used for in-depth parapet inspections. 3. Procedures for Reporting and Compliance Property owners receive a thorough report after the examination that classifies the parapet as follows: • SAFE — No pressing issues • SAFE WITH MAINTENANCE REQUIRED — Minor concerns needing care • UNSAFE— Serious risks that need to be fixed right away

7. Owners are not required to submit these reports to the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB), unlike other façade inspections, but they must keep them on site for a minimum of six years and provide them to the DOB upon request. When harmful situations are discovered, immediate safety measures are required, such as sidewalk sheds or barricades. 4. Dealing with Dangerous Situations and Law Enforcement Unsafe parapet conditions need to be fixed right away. Building owners are in charge of hiring certified contractors to carry out repairs in accordance with local building codes and DOB safety standards. In order to protect the public until repairs are finished, temporary safety measures must be implemented.

8. Penalties for violations of Local Law 126 inspection requirements or improper paperwork maintenance can reach $10,000 per infraction. To stop dangerous parapet failures, the DOB vigorously enforces these regulations. 5. The Value of Frequent Inspections of the Parapet In addition to being required by law, annual parapet inspections are crucial for maintaining property value and public safety. Early diagnosis of structural deterioration allows building owners to budget repairs proactively, avoiding costly emergency solutions and liability problems.

9. In order to provide precise assessments and unambiguous maintenance plans, qualified inspectors—such as licensed engineers or architects—are essential. Keeping thorough inspection records also makes it easier to comply with continuing DOB audits. The Significance of Adherence to Local Law 126

10. To safeguard buildings, property owners, and pedestrians, the new parapet wall inspection regulations require careful upkeep and evaluation. Property owners in New York City protect their assets and maintain essential safety standards by adhering to Local Law 126’s parapet inspection requirements. A safer urban environment and a lower chance of accidents caused by improperly maintained parapets are achieved by proactive inspections and prompt repairs. Building owners should seek advice from qualified experts who can carry out in-depth assessments and direct successful rehabilitation plans in order to remain compliant. This is an essential step for the long-term safety and value of buildings in New York City.

11. RZ Construction Group Inc is one of the best fully inclusive general contractors in NYC. From initial design to final clean up, our results speak for themselves. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded to provide both commercial and residential construction services to customers in Astoria and the surrounding area. We also offer apartment renovation in Queens NY. Proud to serve New York State for 25 years. No job is too small nor too big. If you are looking for masonry contractors in Queens, NY or want to know more about our wide range of professional but affordable construction and repair services, reach out to us at (718) 938-9887.