As part of New York City’s commitment to building safety, Local Law 126 of 2021 introduced mandatory parapet inspections for certain buildings. Parapets—low protective walls along the roofline—are highly exposed to weathering, water infiltration, and structural movement, making them prone to deterioration and posing potential hazards to pedestrians below. Under LL126, building owners must:
- Inspect all street facing parapets annually.
- Owners must keep written documentation of each inspection, including the condition of the parapet, any observed defects (cracks, displacement, loose materials), and required repairs.
- If unsafe conditions are identified, the owner must take immediate action—such as installing protective measures and performing necessary repairs to eliminate hazards.
By enforcing regular parapet inspections, Local Law 126 aims to prevent accidents, extend the service life of buildings, and ensure compliance with city safety standards.