Local Law 126 - Annual Parapet Inspection

Local Law 126 is an enactment released in 2023 by the NYC Department of Buildings requiring nearly all buildings that are equipped with parapet walls at the roof level to undergo an analysis of its structural integrity and overall conditions, along with its attached appurtenances. 

Any building regardless of height that has a parapet wall at the roof level is required to have the parapet inspected on an annual basis. Exemptions include any 1 or 2 family homes.

The deadline for each Annual Parapet Inspection is at the end of the year, on December 31st.

Once the inspection is completed, A report is generated along with any detailed photographs that are relevant to document the current conditions of the parapets.

As of 2024, the reports do not have to be submitted directly to the DOB. The reports are issued to the client directly and upon request by NYC DOB, must be issued directly by the client

There are currently 3 different classes of filings in regards to the parapet inspections:

• SAFE - No deficiencies or questionable observations are discovered on the initial inspection. 
• Structurally Sound, But Requires Maintenance - This class is reserved for parapets found to have minor deficiencies and often require minor repair work. 
• UNSAFE - Any parapet walls found to be deflected, bowing, and/or with major work required is considered as UNSAFE.

Any UNSAFE filing can be challenging. At Building Envelope Inspections, we are here to guide you step by step on the appropriate actions to take in order to remedy the issues.