Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP)
"Owners of buildings higher than six (6) stories must have exterior walls and appurtenances inspected every five (5) years and a technical façade report must be electronically filed with the Department through DOB NOW: Safety."
At AMA Architects, we help clients on all aspects of the FISP process. A dedicated Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) will work with you to help you achieve and maintain compliance with the NYCDOB façade safety requirements.
A non-compliance façade not only constitutes a hazard risk to the public, but it's also extremely costly.
Façade Fees & Penalties
Filing Fees
Unsafe conditions must be corrected within 90 days of filing a report with an Unsafe status. An amended report must then be filed within two weeks of completing the repairs.
Initial Report: $425.00
Amended/Subsequent Report: $425.00
Extension Request: $305.0
Penalties
- Penalties apply after the filing period ends.
- Late Filing (initial report) $1,000 per month
- Failure to File (initial report) $5,000 per year
- Failure to correct unsafe conditions will result in $1,000 fine per month in the first year, plus $10, $20, $30, and $40 per linear-foot of façade of additional penalty in Y2, Y3, Y4, and Y5, respectively.
- Failure to correct SWARMP conditions $2,000.
Connect with AMA Architects now for immediate assistance.
FAQs
What is NYC FISP?
NYC FISP or Façade Inspection & Safety Program is a law (Local Law 11/98) by New York City Council that refers all buildings higher than six stories must perform a periodic Façade Inspection by a qualified professional every five years, and a technical façade report must be filed with the Department of Building (DOB). This report includes the condition of NYC's buildings as safe, safe with repair, or unsafe.
What does FISP mean in construction?
FISP means Façade Inspection & Safety Program, a set of regulations focusing on the state of the building's exterior walls and their appurtenances in New York. With this program, each building over six stories must be inspected every five years and file a report with the DOB. FISP aims to ensure that the façade of buildings is maintained regularly to reduce the risk of falling-debris hazards.
What is Façade safety?
Façade safety means the safety or protective effect on the outer layer of a structure. The purpose of the façade is to ensure longevity. A façade system is resistant to water, heat, wind, pressure, and abrasion. A well-coated façade can make the structure healthier.
What is a Façade of a building?
The façade is the front or uttermost part of a building that faces the people. It's the physical exterior portion of a building, giving the structure a personality and character. Not only aesthetics, but the façade is also admired for its resistance to temperature, weathering, and corrosion.
NYC FISP & Local Law 11 Facade Inspection Services
Navigating New York City's Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), also known as Local Law 11/98, is a critical requirement for owners of buildings taller than six stories. Failing to comply with the mandated 5-year exterior wall and facade inspection within your designated cycle can lead to significant DOB penalties and create public safety risks.
At AMA Architects, our dedicated team of Qualified Exterior Wall Inspectors (QEWIs) provides comprehensive FISP services across NYC. We manage the entire process, from the initial building facade inspection to preparing and filing the technical report, ensuring you meet every deadline and maintain full facade compliance.
Understanding FISP Cycle 10 Deadlines (2022-2026)
The Department of Buildings has structured Cycle 10 with three sub-cycles to help owners manage inspections and repairs. Your building's specific deadline is determined by the last digit of its block number.
It is the building owner’s responsibility to identify their property's filing requirements. AMA Architects can help you verify your block number and ensure you file on time.
- Sub-cycle A: Block number ending in 4, 5, 6, or 9 Filing Window: February 21, 2022 – February 21, 2024 (Now Closed)
- Sub-cycle B: Block number ending in 0, 7, or 8 Filing Window: February 21, 2023 – February 21, 2025 (Now Closed)
- Sub-cycle C: Block number ending in 1, 2, or 3 Filing Window: February 21, 2024 – February 21, 2026 (Active)
The deadline for Sub-cycle C is approaching. Contact our team today to schedule your inspection and avoid late penalties.
Our Comprehensive FISP Compliance Services
A dedicated QEWI from our team will work with you on all aspects of the FISP process to ensure your building meets all NYCDOB façade safety requirements. Our services include:
- Detailed Exterior Wall Inspections: We conduct thorough inspections of your building's facade to identify any unsafe conditions or areas requiring repair (SWARMP).
- Technical Report Filing: We handle the electronic filing of your technical façade report through DOB NOW: Safety, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
- Amended & Subsequent Reports: If repairs are needed, we assist in filing the necessary amended reports to clear violations and confirm compliance.
- Filing Extension Assistance: If you need more time to complete necessary repairs, we can help you file for an extension to avoid penalties.
FISP Fees & Penalties
A non-compliant façade is not only a hazard but also a significant financial liability. Staying ahead of your sub-cycle deadline is key to avoiding these costly fines.
DOB Filing Fees
- Initial Report Filing: $425.00
- Amended/Subsequent Report: $425.00
- Filing Extension Request: $305.00
Common Penalties
- Late Filing (Initial Report): $1,000 per month
- Failure to File (Annual): $5,000 per year
- Failure to Correct Unsafe Conditions: $1,000 per month, plus escalating penalties per linear foot.
- Failure to Correct SWARMP: $2,000 fine.
- Connect with AMA Architects now for immediate assistance with your Cycle 10 filing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FISP FAQs)
What is NYC FISP?
NYC FISP, or the Façade Inspection & Safety Program (governed by Local Law 11/98), is a New York City regulation. It requires buildings over six stories to undergo a periodic façade inspection by a qualified professional every five years and file a technical report with the Department of Buildings (DOB).
What does FISP mean in construction?
In construction, FISP refers to the complete set of regulations for inspecting and maintaining a building's exterior walls and attachments in NYC. The program's goal is to ensure facades are regularly maintained to reduce the risk of falling debris and protect the public.
What is façade safety?
Façade safety refers to the structural integrity and protective qualities of a building's exterior. A safe façade, properly maintained, resists water, wind, and temperature changes, ensuring the building's longevity and protecting its occupants.
What is a façade of a building?
A façade is the exterior front or face of a building. Beyond aesthetics, the façade is a critical component of the building envelope, providing structural support and resistance against weather and corrosion.