Local Law 126 Parapet Inspections

Local Law 126 of 2021 in New York City requires building owners to have an annual observation of the parapets on their buildings. Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of this law:

What is a parapet?

A parapet is any portion of a wall extending above a roof. These can deteriorate over time and pose a hazard to pedestrians below.

What are the inspection requirements?

• Frequency: Annual inspections are required starting January 1, 2024.
• Who can inspect: A "qualified person" competent to inspect parapets, including but not limited to:
  • Architects or engineers
  • Building superintendents or handymen
  • Bricklayers, masons, or similar construction-related tradespeople
  • Inspectors working for a New York State-authorized insurance company or building inspector
  • Anyone else capable of identifying hazards on the parapet
• What to inspect: The observation must include a close-up inspection of the entire parapet, including:
  • Plumbness: Determine if the parapet is plumb (vertically straight) within one-eighth of its cross-sectional thickness.
  • Deterioration: Look for any signs of excessive deterioration, such as:
    • Displacement
    • Horizontal or diagonal cracks
    • Missing or loose bricks or coping stones
    • Deteriorated mortar joints
    • Spalling (flaking or chipping of the brick)
    • Rot
  • Appurtenances: Check that things attached to the parapet (like telecommunications equipment, railings, signs, etc.) are installed and maintained in a stable condition.
• Report: The qualified person must prepare a report of the inspection findings, including:
  • The date of the observation
  • The name and address of the building
  • The name and signature of the qualified person who performed the observation
  • A description of the condition of the parapet, including any unsafe conditions
  • Photographs or other supporting documentation as needed
• Record Keeping: Owners must keep inspection reports for at least 6 years and make them available to the Department of Buildings (DOB) upon request.

What are the penalties for non-compliance?

Failure to comply with Local Law 126 can result in violations and fines. The specific amount of the fine can vary depending on the severity of the violation.

What buildings are subject to this law?

The law applies to most buildings with parapets facing a public right-of-way, regardless of height.

Exceptions:

• Detached one- or two-family homes
• Buildings with a fence or other barrier preventing access to the exterior wall