What to inspect and verify when evaluating any NYC building.
Check facade condition for cracks, spalling, loose masonry, and water damage. Verify FISP (facade inspection) compliance for buildings over 6 stories. Look for scaffolding or sidewalk sheds indicating known issues.
Inspect roof surface, flashing, drainage, parapet walls, and bulkhead. Check for ponding water, membrane damage, and roof penetrations. Verify roof age and remaining useful life.
Examine foundation walls, floor joists, beams, columns, and load-bearing walls. Look for settlement cracks, deflection, water infiltration, and deterioration. Hire a structural engineer for buildings with signs of distress.
Check water supply lines (copper, galvanized, lead), drain/waste/vent systems, water heaters, and fixtures. Verify water pressure and drainage. For older buildings, assess whether re-piping is needed.
Inspect electrical panels, wiring type (copper, aluminum, knob-and-tube), outlets, and grounding. Verify amperage is adequate for current use. Check for code violations and outdated wiring.
Check heating system (boiler, furnace, radiators), cooling systems, and ventilation. Verify age, condition, and efficiency. For boilers, check DOB boiler registration and inspection records.
Verify fire alarm, sprinkler, and standpipe systems. Check for current FDNY inspection certificates. Test fire escapes and egress paths. Verify smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in all required locations.
For buildings with elevators, check DOB inspection records, violation history, and maintenance contracts. Verify annual inspections are current. Check for ADA compliance requirements.
Test for lead paint (in buildings built before 1978), asbestos (in insulation, tiles, pipe wrapping), mold (especially in basements and bathrooms), and radon. Environmental remediation can be very costly.
Compare current conditions to DOB records, C of O, and approved plans. Identify any unpermitted work, unauthorized conversions, or code violations. Use RegWatch to cross-reference building records.
A thorough building inspection goes beyond the physical structure to include regulatory compliance, system conditions, and environmental hazards. This checklist is designed for NYC-specific conditions and requirements.
Before scheduling a physical inspection, use RegWatch to research the building history: violation records, permit history, complaints, and ownership changes. This background research helps inspectors focus on areas of concern and provides context for physical findings.
RegWatch automates many of these checks by aggregating data from DOB, HPD, ACRIS, and other NYC agencies. Save hours on every property.
sign up free