What to Know About Cornice Inspections! 🏢🛠️
14 AUGUST 2024
You’re likely familiar with the required parapet inspections, but what if your building has a cornice? Cornices attached directly to the front wall or roof without a parapet behind them do not require inspection. However, cornices attached to parapet walls are considered appurtenances and must undergo annual inspections. In such cases, creating a comprehensive report is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance with New York’s local regulations. These reports document the condition of architectural elements like cornices, which, though often overlooked, can pose significant public safety risks.
Why is this type of report crucial?
● Risk Prevention: Poorly maintained cornices can endanger pedestrians and vehicles. This report provides a thorough visual assessment of the cornice’s current condition, helping identify potential issues and plan necessary repairs before they become critical.
● Regulatory Compliance: Under New York City’s Local Law 126 of 2021, maintaining updated records of parapet and cornice conditions visible from the public right-of-way for up to six years is mandatory. Even if your building is exempt from cornice or parapet inspections, keeping detailed records is essential for audits by the Department of Buildings (DOB) and to ensure your building remains safe and compliant.
● Maintenance Planning: Reports may recommend specific repairs, such as addressing damaged upper sheathing within a year. This information helps property owners plan and budget for necessary interventions, preventing unexpected costs.
Key Points to Include in a Report:
● Overall Condition of the Cornice: Assess whether the cornice is in good condition, noting any signs of deterioration such as displacement, horizontal cracks, or loose bricks.
● Recommendations and Timeline for Repairs: Detail the recommended repairs and the timeframe for addressing them.
● Visual Inspection Details: Describe how the inspection was conducted (e.g., from roof and street levels using high-resolution binoculars).
● Importance of Record Keeping: Note NYC requirements for annual inspections and the maintenance of records for six years.
These reports serve not only as a safety measure but also as a valuable reference for architectural conservation planning. The safety of our buildings begins with prevention and thorough documentation!
BuildingInspection ArchitecturalSafety CorniceMaintenance MaytaSebastian NYCArchitecture BuildingConservation RiskPrevention buildingownwer propertymanagers womeninconstruction
