
Local Law 11, officially known as the Façade Inspection and Safety Program (FISP), mandates that all buildings in New York City greater than six stories undergo regular façade inspections to ensure public safety. These inspections are divided into cycles, with Cycle 10 scheduled to begin in February 2025.
Key Details about Local Law 11/FISP Cycle 10:
Program Overview:
- Who Is Affected? All buildings six stories or taller within the five boroughs of NYC must comply with Local Law 11 requirements. This includes residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties.
- Purpose: The law ensures that building façades are regularly inspected and maintained, helping prevent accidents caused by deteriorating materials or structural issues.
Inspection Requirements:
- Qualified Professionals: Inspections must be conducted by a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI), such as a licensed professional engineer or registered architect.
- Scope of Inspection: QEWI professionals inspect the building façade, including all visible masonry, windows, balconies, railings, and other exterior components, to identify signs of deterioration or unsafe conditions.
- Access Requirements: Inspections must include physical examinations every 60ft. along facades facing public right of way.
Filing and Compliance:
- Filing Schedule: Each building is assigned to a specific sub-cycle based on its block number. Property owners must file their façade reports within their designated window during the cycle.
- Classification Categories:
- Safe: No repairs required.
- Safe with a Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP): Conditions are safe but require repairs within the filing cycle to prevent further deterioration.
- Unsafe: Conditions pose an immediate danger and must be repaired immediately.

Building Information Search: https://a810-bisweb.nyc.gov/bisweb/bispi00.jsp
Penalties for Non-Compliance:
Failure to comply with Local Law 11 requirements, including missed deadlines or unresolved unsafe conditions, can result in:
- Fines starting at $1,000 per month for late filing.
- $5000 per year for failure to file report.
- Additional penalties of $1000 per month for failure to correct unsafe conditions. Penalties after initial year significantly greater.
- Failure to complete SWARMP condition within filing cycle $2,000.
- Legal liabilities for accidents or injuries caused by non-compliance.
New Additions and Focus Areas for Cycle 10:
- Heightened Scrutiny on Balcony Enclosures: Building owners must now provide detailed documentation for enclosed balconies, which are subject to increased inspection due to potential water infiltration and structural deterioration.
- Energy Efficiency Tie-ins: While the primary focus is on safety, FISP inspections may overlap with compliance requirements for Local Law 97, which addresses building energy efficiency.
- Increased Penalties: Cycle 10 includes more stringent enforcement measures, and the Department of Buildings (DOB) is emphasizing proactive compliance to avoid penalties.
Preparation for Property Owners and Managers:
- Hire a QEWI Early: Engaging a qualified professional before the filing window opens ensures timely inspections and allows adequate time for any necessary repairs.
- Budget for Repairs: Building owners should prepare financially for potential repair costs, as even SWARMP conditions must be addressed by the next cycle.
- Stay Organized: Maintain records of prior inspections, repairs, and any changes made to the building façade since Cycle 9.
Contact us today to schedule your façade inspection or learn more about how Falcon can help you stay compliant and avoid penalties.