New York City’s Façade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP), commonly known as Local Law 11, was enacted to ensure the safety of building façades across the city. Originating in 1980 as Local Law 10 after a tragic façade accident, the program was expanded in 1998 (Local Law 11) to require more comprehensive inspections.
Today, all buildings taller than six stories must have their exterior walls and appurtenances (balconies, cornices, fire escapes, etc.) inspected by a Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI) every five years. Owners must then file a report with the NYC Department of Buildings classifying their façades as either Safe, Safe with a Repair & Maintenance Program (SWARMP), or Unsafe.
If unsafe conditions are found, building owners are required to perform immediate repairs and install protective measures, such as sidewalk sheds, until the hazards are corrected.
The goal of FISP is to protect public safety while preserving the city’s buildings stock, ensuring that structures—from historic pre-war façades to modern curtain wall towers—remain safe, secure, and well maintained.
