The DOB often implements new inspection requirements to keep our properties and residents safe. Below you will find details on some of these critical laws and requirements, so you can stay up-to-date and informed on what’s required at your property.
As a result of the collapse of a retaining wall onto the Henry Hudson Parkway in 2005, the DOB now requires the inspection, maintenance and repair of retaining walls that are are 10 feet high or greater and face a public right-of-way. This new requirement is known as Local Law 37 of 2008.
Filing Deadlines: The retaining wall inspection and submission must be performed by a Qualified Retaining Wall Inspector (QRWI) every five years. The law established one year filing windows for each of the five boroughs of New York City, as follows:
| For retaining walls in the Bronx: | Jan 1, 2014 – Dec 31, 2014 |
| For retaining walls in Manhattan: | Jan 1, 2015 – Dec 31, 2016 |
| For retaining walls in Staten Island: | Jan 1, 2016 – Dec 31, 2017 |
| For retaining walls in Queens: | Jan 1, 2017 – Dec 31, 2018 |
| For retaining walls in Brooklyn: | Jan 1, 2018 – Dec 31, 2019 |
Retaining Wall Classifications: The qualified professional will determine if the conditions are “Safe”, “Safe with Minor Repairs or Maintenance”, “Safe with Repairs and/or Engineering Monitoring”, or “Unsafe.” A retaining wall or any part thereof that may pose a potential danger to persons or property, but does not require immediate action, may be rated “Safe with Repairs and/or Engineering Monitoring.” Partially collapsed walls are classified as “Unsafe” and must be addressed immediately.
What do Buildings Owners and Property Managers have to do? The first step is to retain a QRWI, typically a registered design professional (P.E. or R.A.), to conduct a hands-on, non-destructive inspection to determine the existing conditions of the retaining wall and identify potential safety hazards. Once the initial inspection is completed, the QRWI will prepare and file a written report with the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) that details any necessary repair strategies.
To read more about the required Retaining Wall Inspections, click here.
The NYC Department of Buildings recently adopted a new rule requiring that all buildings, regardless of height, must have an annual inspection of their public right-of-way facing parapets.
For more information, continue reading here.
Do you have a building i
n Florida rapidly approaching 40?
If your building is approaching or is currently 40 years old, it is time to file your 40-Year Recertification. The main purpose of the required inspection and report is to confirm that the building or structure is safe for continued use under the present occupancy.
What does the 40 Year Certification entail? The Certification is a combination of both the structural integrity and the electrical safety of the building.
How Merritt Can Help! Our FL team has performed hundreds of inspections to confirm safe building conditions and fulfill all re-certification requirements.
Additional Information/Helpful Links 40 Year Recertification Inspections for Miami-Dade
40 Year Recertification Inspections for Broward
If you would like to request a proposal, please contact the Florida team at (954) 961-0009.