Parapet Wall Inspections
NYC Local Law 126
Stay compliant and protect your building. Local Law 126 requires regular parapet wall inspections for many NYC properties.
What Is a Parapet?
A parapet is the part of a wall that extends above the roofline, terrace, or balcony—often forming a low barrier at the edge of a roof. Parapets are common on both old and new NYC buildings for safety, aesthetics, and fire protection.
What is Local Law 126?
Effective November 7, 2021, Local Law 126 requires annual visual inspections of parapet walls on most buildings throughout New York City. The law was introduced in response to several incidents involving falling masonry and is designed to ensure public safety and proactive building maintenance.
Does My Parapet Need Inspection?
- Applies to all buildings (other than detached 1- or 2-family homes) with any parapet wall facing a public street, sidewalk, alley, or right-of-way.
- Covers both residential and commercial properties. Landlords, property managers, co-op/condo boards, and institutional owners are all responsible for compliance.
Why Is the Inspection Required?
- To identify unsafe conditions or loose masonry before they pose a danger to pedestrians or occupants.
- To comply with NYC law, avoid violations, and ensure your building’s safety.
- To maintain insurance coverage and reduce liability risks for property owners.
When Is It Due?
- The required parapet wall inspection must be completed **annually**—by December 31st of each calendar year for covered buildings.
- If unsafe conditions are found, repairs and a follow-up inspection should be completed as soon as possible, ideally before the deadline.
- Inspections must be documented each year and records retained for at least 6 years.
- We recommend scheduling inspections early to avoid last-minute rushes and possible fines for missing the deadline.
Inspection Requirements & How It Works
- Annual visual inspections of all parapet walls along public rights-of-way.
- Must be performed by a qualified professional: a registered architect, professional engineer, or experienced inspector.
- A written parapet wall checklist (as prescribed by NYC DOB) and photo documentation are required, with reports kept for at least 6 years.
- Any unsafe or hazardous conditions must be corrected immediately and a follow-up inspection performed.
- We provide reminders, complete inspection reports, and can handle any necessary repairs to help you maintain compliance year after year.
Common Parapet Wall Hazards
- Loose or missing bricks or stones
- Cracks or bulges in the parapet
- Leaning or leaning outward sections
- Damaged or deteriorated coping stones
- Spalling masonry or rusted steel supports
- Vegetation growing from the parapet
Penalty for Non-Compliance
- Failure to perform or document the required parapet inspection may result in violations and fines from NYC DOB and ECB.
- Building owners are responsible for any injuries or damages caused by falling masonry or parapet failure.
- Insurance coverage may be jeopardized if you do not comply with Local Law 126.
- Unresolved violations can prevent sales, refinancing, and may increase insurance costs or result in coverage denial.
Why Choose Metropolitan Heat & Power?
- Professional, licensed, and insured inspectors
- Complete parapet inspection reports, checklists, and documentation
- Prompt repair recommendations and follow-up
- 75+ years of experience serving NYC property owners
- Clear, competitive rates and convenient scheduling
- Annual compliance tracking and reminders available
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to file my parapet inspection report with the city?
- No, you do not need to file the inspection report annually, but you must keep it on file for at least 6 years and present it to the NYC DOB upon request or in the event of a complaint or accident.
- Who can perform a parapet inspection?
- Inspections must be conducted by a qualified professional with experience in exterior wall and masonry systems. We provide fully qualified, documented inspections.
- How often do I need to have my parapet inspected?
- Annually, by December 31st each year, for buildings covered under Local Law 126.
- What happens if my parapet fails the inspection?
- You’ll receive a report with required repairs. We can complete all needed work and provide documentation for DOB compliance.
- What buildings are exempt from Local Law 126?
- Detached 1-2 family homes and certain low-rise residential buildings may be exempt. Contact us to confirm your building’s status.
- What if I miss the inspection deadline?
- Fines may be assessed by NYC DOB, and insurance coverage or mortgage requirements may be affected. We recommend scheduling your annual inspection early.
- What is included in your parapet inspection service?
- We provide a thorough visual inspection, checklist, photo documentation, professional report, repair recommendations, and compliance reminders for future years.
- Do you serve all boroughs?
- Yes—Metropolitan Heat & Power provides parapet inspection services throughout Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.