This requirement applies to all buildings with parapets fronting the public right-of-way, regardless of height. EXCEPT: Detached 1- or 2-family homes or buildings with a fence or other barrier preventing access to the exterior wall.

A person competent to inspect parapets can perform the observation. This includes, but is not limited to, a bricklayer, building superintendent, handyman, mason or a person in a similar construction-related trade, a NYS-licensed architect or engineer, a NYS-authorized building inspector or an inspector working for a NYS-authorized insurance company, or any other individual capable of identifying hazards on the parapet.

The observation must include close-up inspections of the entire parapet, which may be conducted from a fire escape or roof. The observation must include, but not be limited to: A determination that the parapet is plumb by a horizontal distance within one-eighth of its cross-sectional thickness in any location A determination of whether there is excessive deterioration, including displacement, horizontal or diagonal cracks, missing or loose bricks or coping stones, deteriorated mortar joints, spalling, or rot A determination that appurtenances such as telecommunications equipment, railings, roof access rails, gooseneck ladders and handrail attachments for fire escapes, and signs, have been installed and maintained in a stable condition

If hazardous or unsafe conditions are identified during the observation: The person performing the observation must immediately notify DOB by calling 311 and emailing parapets@buildings.nyc.gov The owner must immediately install public protection, such as erecting sidewalk sheds, fences, and safety netting to secure the safety of the public The public protection must remain in place until the unsafe condition is remedied The unsafe conditions must be corrected within ninety (90) days from the notification to DOB

Owners must maintain the observation reports for at least 6 years and make the reports available to DOB upon request. While filing these reports is not currently mandatory, building owners are strongly encouraged to keep detailed records to ensure they meet DOB safety standards and remain compliant with Local Law 126 of 2021.

In years when a building undergoes FISP inspection, the FISP report may serve as the observation report for the parapet, provided it contains all necessary information required under 1 RCNY §103-15. If the FISP report does not contain all necessary information, a separate observation report must still be prepared.

Cornices attached directly to the front wall or roof without a parapet behind them are exempt from the inspection requirement. However, cornices attached to parapet walls are not exempt and must undergo an annual inspection as part of the parapet safety requirements.

Parapet: The part of any wall entirely above the roof line. Fronting: Running parallel or near parallel to a public right-of-way. Public right-of-way: A public street, avenue, sidewalk, roadway or any other public place or public way.