Local law 11, what is it?
Local Law 11, also known as the Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), is a New York City law that requires the inspection of the facades of buildings over six stories tall every five years. The law was enacted in response to a tragic incident in 1979 when a piece of masonry fell from a building and killed a pedestrian.
Why is Local Law 11 Important?
Local Law 11 is important for several reasons. Firstly, it helps ensure the safety of pedestrians and occupants of buildings. By requiring regular inspections of building facades, the law aims to identify and address any potential hazards before they become a danger to public safety.
Secondly, Local Law 11 can also help prevent costly damage to buildings. By identifying and addressing issues with building facades early on, building owners can avoid more expensive repairs in the future.
What is a Qualified Wall Inspector?
A Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) is an architect or engineer who has been trained to conduct inspections in accordance with Local Law 11. QEWIs are responsible for evaluating the condition of a building's facade and identifying any necessary repairs or maintenance.
The Role of QEWI
A QEWI plays a critical role in ensuring that buildings comply with Local Law 11. They are responsible for conducting a thorough inspection of the building facade and identifying any potential hazards or areas in need of repair.
During the inspection, the QEWI will evaluate the condition of the facade by looking for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or bulges. They will also check for signs of water damage or corrosion and evaluate the condition of the building's windows and doors.
Once the inspection is complete, the QEWI will prepare a report outlining their findings and recommendations for any necessary repairs or maintenance. The report must be submitted to the Department of Buildings (DOB) within 60 days of the inspection.
how to choose a qewi?
Choosing a QEWI is an important decision for building owners. It's essential to choose a qualified and experienced professional to conduct the inspection. When selecting a QEWI, consider the following:
Credentials: The QEWI should have the necessary credentials, such as a Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) license.
Experience: Look for a QEWI with experience conducting Local Law 11 inspections.
Reputation: Check the QEWI's reputation by reading online reviews and asking for references from past clients.
Cost: While cost shouldn't be the only factor in choosing a QEWI, it's important to compare prices to ensure you're getting a fair deal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Local Law 11 is an essential law that helps ensure the safety of buildings and pedestrians in New York City. QEWIs play a critical role in enforcing the law by conducting inspections and identifying necessary repairs or maintenance. Choosing a qualified and experienced QEWI is important for building owners looking to comply with Local Law 11 and avoid costly repairs in the future. We hope this article has provided valuable insights into Local Law 11 and the role of a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector. If you have any questions or need assistance with complying with Local Law 11, feel free to contact us for professional guidance.Local Law 11 is a New York City regulation that requires building owners to inspect and maintain the facades of their buildings to ensure public safety. From an architect's point of view, Local Law 11 is significant because it imposes certain obligations on building owners, including conducting periodic inspections of the facade and submitting reports on the condition of the facade to the New York City Department of Buildings.
