Facade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP – Local Law 11)
📘 Catalog Course Description:
The Façade Inspection and Safety Program (FISP) is one of New York City's most significant building safety regulations, requiring the periodic inspection and evaluation of exterior walls and appurtenances on buildings exceeding a specified height. Proper implementation of FISP is essential for protecting public safety, maintaining building integrity, and ensuring compliance with the requirements of the New York City Department of Buildings (NYC DOB).
This course provides a comprehensive study of façade inspection principles, building envelope systems, regulatory requirements, and professional inspection practices under New York City's Façade Inspection and Safety Program (FISP – Local Law 11). Students will examine the legal framework governing façade inspections, the responsibilities of Qualified Exterior Wall Inspectors (QEWIs), inspection methodologies, condition assessment, defect classification, reporting requirements, and repair recommendations.
Topics include exterior wall systems, masonry façades, curtain walls, precast concrete panels, architectural terra cotta, balconies, parapets, anchors, sealants, moisture intrusion, corrosion, deterioration mechanisms, close-up inspection procedures, field documentation, Unsafe, Safe With Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP), and Safe classifications, filing requirements, repair programs, and applicable provisions of the NYC Construction Codes and Department of Buildings regulations.
Through engineering principles, real-world case studies, and industry-based inspection practices, students will develop the technical knowledge required to evaluate exterior building envelopes, identify façade deficiencies, interpret regulatory requirements, prepare professional inspection documentation, and support the long-term safety, serviceability, and regulatory compliance of existing buildings.
🎯 Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs):
Upon successful completion of this course, learners will be able to:
1. Explain the purpose, scope, and regulatory framework of the New York City Façade Inspection and Safety Program (FISP).
2. Describe the roles and responsibilities of building owners, Qualified Exterior Wall Inspectors (QEWIs), and the New York City Department of Buildings in façade safety compliance.
3. Identify the principal components of building envelope systems and common façade construction materials used in existing buildings.
4. Apply systematic inspection methodologies to evaluate exterior wall conditions and appurtenant structures.
5. Recognize common deterioration mechanisms affecting masonry, concrete, curtain walls, terra cotta, sealants, anchors, and façade support systems.
6. Differentiate between Safe, Safe With Repair and Maintenance Program (SWARMP), and Unsafe façade conditions in accordance with FISP requirements.
7.Interpret close-up inspection findings and evaluate their implications for structural integrity, public safety, and building performance.
8. Prepare clear, accurate, and technically sound inspection documentation, including photographic records, field observations, condition assessments, and repair recommendations.
9. Explain the filing procedures, reporting requirements, repair obligations, and compliance timelines established by the NYC Department of Buildings.
10. Evaluate façade defects and recommend appropriate maintenance, repair, stabilization, or monitoring strategies using engineering principles and accepted industry practices.
11. Discuss the influence of applicable building codes, engineering standards, and professional ethics on façade inspection practice and public safety.
12. Analyze façade inspection case studies to support sound engineering judgment, risk assessment, and informed decision-making in the management of existing building envelopes.