What to Know

Effective January 1, 2024, The New York City Department of Buildings (NYC DOB) now requires building parapet inspections under Local Law 126 of 2021. Building owners must have their parapets inspected annually by a competent inspector to identify any hazardous conditions. 

Inspection Period & Applicability

This applies to any building with parapets fronting the public right of way, except 1-2 family homes and buildings with a fence preventing access to the exterior wall.  A parapet is a low protective wall or barrier at the edges of a roof, which is an essential feature of a building. Over time, their structural integrity can be compromised, posing risks to both occupants and pedestrians.

Inspection Procedure

This inspection primarily consists of a visual-based observation, and may require measuring the plumbness, assessing its current condition, and reviewing equipment attached to the parapet to ensure soundness of its connection to the parapet. 

Report Requirement

The inspection report is not required to be submitted to the DOB but should be kept on site for record and made available for DOB inspection upon request. Report format and content may be similar to a structural visual inspection. The report must be prepared by the inspector or the owner in consultation with the inspector.

Working with AMAA

AMAA has decades of experience inspecting parapet repairs. Our qualified team is available to help your structure meet the required life safety regulations: 

Based on your parapets design and needs, we will develop checklists and report templates for your building’s future annual inspections. Our inspectors will perform the required inspections and generate a detailed report for your building's records, noting associated repairs as needed. If elected, AMAA will develop an annual parapet inspection compliance program to simplify the process.
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