New Updates to Local Law 11: What NYC Property Owners Must Know in 2025
Local Law 11, officially known as the Façade Inspection Safety Program (FISP), ensures the safety of New York City buildings over six stories tall by requiring regular façade inspections. As we enter 2025, the start of FISP Cycle 10 brings important updates that property owners must understand to remain compliant and avoid penalties.
Key Updates in FISP Cycle 10
Introduction of Sub-Cycles for Filing
FISP Cycle 10, beginning February 21, 2025, introduces three filing sub-cycles—10A, 10B, and 10C—designed to distribute inspection deadlines more evenly and reduce delays. Buildings are assigned to sub-cycles based on the last digit of their block number:
- 10A (2025–2027): Block numbers ending in 4, 5, 6, or 9.
- 10B (2026–2028): Block numbers ending in 0, 7, or 8.
- 10C (2027–2029): Block numbers ending in 1, 2, or 3.
This segmentation helps owners plan inspections and file reports without the congestion caused by a single deadline.
Enhanced Inspection and Documentation Standards
Recent updates to Local Law 11 emphasize stricter inspection requirements:
- Condition Mapping: Detailed mapping of façade issues is now mandatory to track defects effectively.
- Photo Documentation: High-resolution photographs must accompany reports to provide visual evidence of conditions.
- Timelines for Repairs: Inspectors must estimate when conditions could worsen, ensuring timely repairs to prevent hazards.
These measures aim to improve the quality of inspections and ensure better accountability for building maintenance.
Consequences of Non-Compliance in 2025
Increased Fines and Penalties
The NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) has revised its penalty structure to impose higher fines on property owners who fail to meet inspection and repair deadlines under Local Law 11. These fines now accumulate more quickly, making non-compliance a significant financial burden.
Legal and Safety Risks
Non-compliance with Local Law 11 exposes property owners to legal liabilities, especially if structural failures result in accidents or injuries. In severe cases, criminal charges may be brought against owners for negligence, as seen in past incidents involving falling debris.
Difficulty in Securing Financing and Insurance
Buildings with outstanding violations or Unsafe classifications may face challenges in obtaining loans, refinancing, or renewing insurance policies. Lenders and insurers are increasingly scrutinizing compliance records to mitigate risks, further emphasizing the importance of staying on top of Local Law 11 requirements.
Property owners are urged to prioritize compliance in 2025 to avoid these consequences and ensure the safety and integrity of their buildings.