Quick Summary

Local Law 126 requires annual parapet inspections for all buildings with parapets fronting public right-of-way in NYC. This comprehensive guide covers everything from inspection requirements to compliance deadlines.

What is Local Law 126?

Local Law 126, enacted in 2021, added Section 28-301.1.1 to the NYC Administrative Code. This critical safety regulation became effective on November 7, 2022, and requires annual observation of building parapets to prevent facade-related accidents and ensure public safety.

The inspection requirements began applying from January 1, 2024, with the first parapet observation reports due by December 31, 2024. Unlike previous facade inspection laws, Local Law 126 requires annual inspections rather than periodic multi-year cycles.

Key Requirements

Who Must Comply

All buildings in NYC with parapets that front a public right-of-way
No height restrictions - applies regardless of building height
All building types (residential, commercial, mixed-use)
Exceptions: Detached one- or two-family homes, or buildings with physical barriers blocking access to exterior walls

Inspection Frequency

Inspections must be conducted annually, with reports due every year:

Annual Inspection Schedule

First Report Due: December 31, 2024

Subsequent Reports: Annually thereafter

Record Retention: Minimum 6 years, available to DOB upon request

Who Can Perform Inspections

The inspection must be performed by a "competent person" capable of identifying hazards. This includes:

Licensed Professional Engineers
Registered Architects
Experienced bricklayers and masons
Qualified handymen and superintendents
Other experienced inspection professionals

The Inspection Process

Required Inspection Scope

The inspection must include close-up observations of the entire parapet system, including:

Assessment for plumb alignment and structural integrity
Evaluation of deterioration and weathering
Identification of cracked or loose masonry
Detection of spalling and surface defects
Examination of rusted anchors and connections
Assessment of unstable appurtenances

Access Methods

Inspections must use appropriate access methods for close-up observation, including fire escapes, roofs, scaffolding, or accessible observation platforms.

Classification of Conditions

SAFE

No unsafe conditions found that require immediate attention.

SWARMP (Safe With a Repair and Maintenance Program)

Conditions that require monitoring and maintenance but are not immediately unsafe.

UNSAFE

Conditions that pose an immediate threat to public safety.

Report Requirements

A detailed written parapet observation report must include:

Required Report Elements

• Property address and owner's contact details
• Name and credentials of the person conducting the inspection
• Observation date(s) and plan showing parapet locations
• Parapet construction details (material, thickness, height)
• Condition description (Safe, SWARMP, or Unsafe)
• Actions taken and repairs since prior inspection
• Dated photographs of parapet conditions

Unsafe Conditions Protocol

⚠️ Immediate Action Required

Immediate DOB Notification: Call 311 and email parapets@buildings.nyc.gov

Public Protection: Install sidewalk sheds, safety netting, fences, or other barriers immediately

Correction Timeline: Unsafe conditions must be corrected within 90 days

Protection Maintenance: Protective measures must remain until hazard is remediated

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with Local Law 126 can result in significant penalties:

Penalty Structure

Late Filing: $1,000 per month
Uncorrected Unsafe Conditions: $1,000 per month until resolved
Record Keeping: Reports must be retained for minimum 6 years and made available to DOB upon request

How VetraCheck Ensures Compliance

At VetraCheck, we specialize in Local Law 126 annual compliance and make the process seamless for building owners. Our qualified professionals provide:

Annual parapet inspections using drone-based and hands-on methods
Reports structured following 1 RCNY §103-15 guidelines
Immediate DOB notification and protective measure coordination for unsafe conditions
Secure 6-year record retention and compliance tracking
Ongoing support throughout the annual compliance process

Need Your Annual Parapet Inspection?

Don't wait until the deadline. Schedule your annual inspection today and ensure your building stays compliant with Local Law 126.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does an annual parapet inspection cost?

Inspection costs vary based on building size, parapet complexity, and access requirements. Contact VetraCheck for a personalized quote based on your specific building.

Can building maintenance staff perform the inspection?

Yes, if they qualify as "competent persons" capable of identifying parapet hazards. This includes experienced superintendents, handymen, masons, or other qualified maintenance professionals.

What happens if my building receives an UNSAFE designation?

UNSAFE conditions must be reported to the DOB immediately via 311 and parapets@buildings.nyc.gov. Public protection measures must be installed immediately, and conditions must be corrected within 90 days.

Do I need to file anything with the DOB?

While annual reports must be prepared and retained for 6 years, they are not routinely filed with the DOB unless requested. However, unsafe conditions require immediate DOB notification.

Conclusion

Local Law 126 represents a significant shift to annual parapet inspection requirements, emphasizing ongoing safety monitoring rather than periodic assessments. By understanding the requirements and working with qualified professionals like VetraCheck, building owners can ensure compliance while maintaining their property's safety and value.

Don't wait until the last minute to schedule your annual inspection. Contact VetraCheck today to discuss your Local Law 126 compliance needs and establish a reliable annual inspection schedule.

Local Law 126: Complete Annual Parapet Inspection Guide 2024