Local Law 126 - Parking Structures Inspections

Local Law 126 of 2021 is a 2-part inspection, consisting of an initial observation, followed up by the Periodic Inspection of Parking Structures (PIPS).  

 Local Law 126 of 2021 mandates periodic structural inspections of parking garages and structures throughout New York City to ensure public safety. Under this law, property owners must have their parking structures inspected every six years by a Qualified Parking Structure Inspector (QPSI) and submit a condition assessment report to the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB). The inspections help identify structural issues, ensuring timely repairs and preventing potential hazards. Non-compliance can result in violations and fines. At Building Envelope Inspections, we provide thorough, DOB-compliant inspections to keep your property safe and up to code. 

Under Local Law 126 of 2021, New York City mandates periodic structural inspections of parking structures to ensure public safety. The inspection and filing requirements are organized into cycles based on the location of the parking structure:

• Cycle 1: Manhattan Community Districts 1 through 7
  • Filing Period: January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2023

• Cycle 2: Manhattan Community Districts 8 through 12 and all Brooklyn Community Districts
  • Filing Period: January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2025

• Cycle 3: All Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island Community Districts
  • Filing Period: January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2027

Each parking structure must be inspected by a Qualified Parking Structure Inspector (QPSI) within its designated filing period. Additionally, all parking structures are required to undergo a one-time initial observation by August 1, 2024. This initial observation must be performed by a QPSI and filed with the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB). Failure to comply with these deadlines may result in violations and financial penalties.

To determine your building’s specific requirements and ensure compliance, consult with Building Envelope Inspections, LLC. We’ll confirm your inspection cycle and provide expert guidance for timely inspections and filings.

The Parking Structure Inspection Program (PIPS) requires parking structures to be classified based on their condition after an inspection by a Qualified Parking Structure Inspector (QPSI). The classifications are as follows:

1. Safe – The parking structure has no significant structural issues, and no repairs are needed until the next inspection cycle.
2. Safe with Repair and/or Monitoring (SREM) – The structure is generally safe but has defects that require repairs or monitoring before the next scheduled inspection cycle. The owner must complete necessary maintenance within a timeframe specified by the QPSI.
3. Unsafe – The structure has severe defects that pose an immediate risk to public safety. The owner must take corrective action immediately, which may include closing off hazardous areas and conducting emergency repairs.

Failure to comply with the required repairs or filing deadlines can result in DOB violations and financial penalties.

 At Building Envelope Inspections, LLC, we help property owners navigate these classifications by conducting thorough inspections, providing detailed reports, and guiding you through the repair process to achieve compliance. 

Once Building Envelope Inspections (BEI) has completed your Local Law 126 filing for your parking structure, here’s what you should do next:

• Submit the Report to the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB):
• Ensure that your inspection report and condition assessment are properly submitted to the NYC Department of Buildings. This should include the structural condition findings, classified as Safe, Safe with Repair and/or Monitoring (SREM), or Unsafe.

• Address Repair Recommendations (if applicable):
• If your inspection report classifies your parking structure as Safe with Repair and/or Monitoring (SREM) or Unsafe, you’ll need to take immediate action to complete necessary repairs. Consult with contractors to perform the required work and get any documentation that may be needed to show compliance.

• Monitor Deadlines for Compliance:
• Be aware of any deadlines for repairs or further filings. The NYC DOB will have specific timeframes for you to address issues, and failing to comply could result in penalties or violations. Make sure all required actions are completed within the designated timeframe.

• Prepare for Future Cycles:
• The inspection cycles for Local Law 126 occur every six years. After completing your filing and repairs, start preparing for the next cycle to ensure continued compliance.

• Keep Records Up to Date:
  • Maintain all records, reports, and receipts for any repairs made. These could be needed in future inspections or audits from the DOB.