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by Restaurants
- January 5, 2025
When it comes to maintaining building safety, you have to pay critical attention to the parapet in New York City. It is an extension of the building, right above the roofline, and based on the new regulations, annual maintenance has become mandatory. Thus, get to know whether a permit is required to inspect the parapet if you want to hire professional help.
- What is a Parapet Wall?
The exterior wall of the building that extends above the roofline is called the parapet wall. They have considerable advantages in safeguarding the building from adverse weather conditions or acting as a fire barrier. The parapet also enhances the property’s value by maintaining its aesthetic appearance. However, they are susceptible to deterioration over time as they are exposed to environmental elements. So, NYC inspections and repairs are required. Otherwise, it can create safety hazards for the residents, passersby, and adjacent property.
- New Inspection Requirements
If your building’s parapet faces a public right-of-way, including streets or sideways it has become mandatory to undergo an annual inspection. This applies to buildings of all heights; even single—or two-family homes are included in the rule. However, you have to hire qualified and certified professionals who can identify parapet hazards and have experience with the building codes. You can employ architects, engineers, or even individuals associated with the construction trade.
- Inspection Process and Reporting
Based on the annual parapet observation, one has to go through a close-up inspection of the parapet structure of the building. It can be performed from any accessible point, or specialized tools and equipment can be implemented. The inspector has to assess the condition of the parapet, and the checklist includes misalignment, cracks, missing masonry, loose bricks, or any instability of the railings attached to the parapet. However, you do not need to submit the Inspection Report right away to the DOB; instead, you have to retain the documentation, as if the DOB requests it in the future, you have to present it. Thus, keeping these documents for at least six years is mandatory.
- Permit Requirements for Parapet Repairs
If the assessment reports that the parapet has to be repaired, you must get the permit for work. The Department of Buildings in NYC requires a work permit that affects the structural integrity of the building or if the building needs a significant alteration. Moreover, if scaffolding is required, it can affect the public space; any structural change can become unsafe for the passerby, so a permit is required. It is always recommended to consult with licensed professionals from nycparapetsinspection.com who can help navigate the situation and guide you about the specific permit requirement based on the intensity of parapet repair.
Conclusion
If a parapet inspector identifies hazardous conditions in their report after parapet observation, they must immediately notify the DOB. The property owner must also implement public safety measures immediately, including installing sidewalks or safety netting to protect pedestrians and building occupants in Bronx, Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and Staten Island, NY. Moreover, the owner is required to rectify the unsafe conditions within 90 days to ensure public safety.
