top of page
FISP FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Understanding Exterior Wall Requirements
The Facade Inspection Safety Program requires periodic exterior wall inspections for buildings taller than six stories in New York City. While the filing requirements are standardized, the practical implications vary depending on building condition, access, and prior repair history.
The following questions address common concerns from building owners, property managers, and facility teams navigating FISP requirements.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
What is FISP?
NYC law requiring periodic inspection of exterior walls and appurtenances on buildings taller than six stories to prevent falling debris hazards.
Which buildings must comply?
All NYC buildings over 6 stories, including rear and lot-line facades.
How often are inspections required?
Every 5 years within an assigned filing sub-cycle.
Who performs the inspection?
A QEWI — a qualified NY-licensed architect or professional engineer.
What does the inspection include?
Visual survey, close-up inspections where required, and DOB filing.
Why does FISP exist?
To protect the public from falling facade material.
⸻
FILING & CLASSIFICATIONS
What are the possible inspection results?
SAFE — No repair required this cycle
SWARMP — Repair required before next cycle
UNSAFE — Hazard requiring immediate action
What happens if a building is classified as Unsafe?
Public protection must be installed immediately and repairs started. An amended report is filed after correction.
What happens if SWARMP conditions are not repaired?
They become UNSAFE in the next cycle and may trigger violations and penalties.
What is a filing window?
The assigned timeframe when the report must be submitted to DOB.
Are there penalties for late filing?
Yes. Monthly civil penalties until filed.
Is FISP the same as Local Law 11?
Yes. FISP is the current program name.
⸻
REPAIRS & RESPONSIBILITIES
Who is responsible for compliance?
The building owner.
Do repairs have to be done immediately after inspection?
SAFE — No
SWARMP — Before next cycle
UNSAFE — Immediately
Do all facades need inspections?
Yes. All elevations, not just street-facing.
What are appurtenances?
Attached exterior elements such as parapets, railings, balconies, copings, and ornamental features.
Can repairs wait until the next cycle?
Only SWARMP conditions, and they must be corrected before the next filing.
Does painting count as repair?
No. Cosmetic work does not correct deterioration or instability.
⸻
PRACTICAL SITUATIONS
Can tenants refuse access?
Owners must obtain access; legal procedures may be required if denied.
Do sidewalk sheds mean a building is unsafe?
Not necessarily. They are often precautionary during repairs.
Can contractors perform the inspection?
No. Only a QEWI can inspect and file.
What records should owners keep?
Prior reports, repair records, permits, and amended filings.
How can owners reduce costs?
Preventative maintenance and early repair of SWARMP conditions.
Why do facade problems worsen quickly?
Water infiltration accelerates deterioration and increases repair scope.
bottom of page