Fort Lee’s new ordinance sets a recurring inspection requirement for covered parking structures, with classifications (Safe, SREM, Unsafe) that can trigger defined repair and close-out timelines. Existing structures have an initial deadline of December 31, 2026, so early planning can help avoid scheduling bottlenecks and reduce operational disruption.
The 10th Cycle of the NYC Facade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP) is now officially underway. Building owners, property managers, and boards must stay up to date on new rules and penalties as they plan their inspections and repair programs. Here are the latest updates for 2026.
In response to the growing presence of long-standing sidewalk sheds across New York City, the City launched the “Get Sheds Down” initiative in July 2023. Building on that momentum, the City Council passed a series of new local laws in 2025 that overhaul sidewalk shed regulations and revise elements of the Facade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP). These legislative changes aim to expedite facade repairs, improve sidewalk shed design and safety, and potentially extend the timeline between mandated facade inspections.
For the 14th time, RAND Engineering & Architecture, DPC has been recognized by Crain’s New York Business as one of the Best Places to Work in NYC. Learn how our culture of mentorship, flexibility, and employee ownership continues to set us apart.
As we head into the final quarter of 2025, several key Local Law deadlines are fast approaching — and some have shifted since the start of the year. New York City has clarified how extensions for Local Law 97 affect related reporting under LL88 and LL84, and enforcement is now in effect for newer requirements like lead paint inspections, annual parapet reports, and the PIPS annual checklist for parking structures.
Download the updated checklist, subscribe to our compliance calendar, and get the details you need to stay on track through year-end.
Local Law 47 of 2025 brings big changes to how sidewalk sheds are designed and installed in New York City. From increased height and lighting requirements to a new 40-foot exception for certain facade projects, the law aims to improve pedestrian experience and reduce unnecessary sidewalk disruption. In this article, we break down what’s changing, who it affects, and what building owners and property managers should consider when planning upcoming work.
New York’s newly passed access bill (Senate Bill S.3799) updates Section 881 of the Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law, transforming how building owners, managers, and developers approach gaining access to neighboring properties for construction, FISP work, and critical repairs. With clearer definitions, new insurance and compensation requirements, and consequences for non-response, the law promises fewer delays and stronger legal footing, but only for those who are prepared. RAND breaks down what the changes mean and how to get ahead of them.
The NYC DOB has extended the 2025 LL97 compliance deadline to December 31, but only if you file an extension by August 29. Our latest article breaks down what this means for LL97, LL88, and LL84 reporting, who qualifies for the extension, and how to avoid penalties.
RAND Engineering & Architecture, DPC is pleased to announce the promotion of Eugene Gurevich, PE, AIA, LEED AP BD+C, and Code & Zoning Compliance Team Leader Paul R. Grissett to Partner. With their elevation to partnership, RAND’s senior leadership team…
In response to the growing presence of long-standing sidewalk sheds across New York City, the City launched the “Get Sheds Down” initiative in July 2023. Building on that momentum, the City Council passed a series of new local laws in 2025 that overhaul sidewalk shed regulations and revise elements of the Facade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP). These legislative changes aim to expedite facade repairs, improve sidewalk shed design and safety, and potentially extend the timeline between mandated facade inspections.
The 10th Cycle of the NYC Facade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP) is now officially underway. Building owners, property managers, and boards must stay up to date on new rules and penalties as they plan their inspections and repair programs. Here are the latest updates for 2025.
Our team read 328 books and filled 357 Bingo squares in this year’s Reading Bingo Challenge, raising $3,000 through RAND Gives Back to support My Own Books, a nonprofit helping NYC students build their own home libraries.
The restoration of Harlem River Houses, New York City's first purpose-built public housing development, was recently honored with a 2025 Lucy G. Moses Preservation Award. RAND Engineering & Architecture, DPC provided facade and roofing consulting services for this landmark project, helping preserve its historic character while enhancing long-term performance and resilience.
NYC DOB Now Allows Early FISP Filing for NRF Buildings If your New York City building failed to submit a required Cycle 9 Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) report, you’re likely accruing monthly DOB penalties. Fortunately, the Department of Buildings…
With the first Local Law 97 (LL97) compliance deadline approaching, building owners now have extra time to submit their reports, thanks to a recent NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) Service Notice. A 60-day grace period extends the deadline from May…
New York, NY – RAND Engineering & Architecture, DPC is proud to announce it is now an approved NYC Accelerator Service Provider. The program, an initiative of the NYC Mayor’s Office of Climate & Environmental Justice, connects building owners and…
As Cycle 10 of the Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) begins, it’s important to remember why this law exists. It wasn’t created as a bureaucratic requirement or an administrative burden — it was established to prevent tragedies that occur when…
RAND Building News & Insights, January 2025 Staying on top of NYC’s building compliance deadlines is more important than ever. This year is a critical one for compliance, with major Local Law 97 and 88 deadlines driving significant changes in…
As the summer of 2024 comes to a close, we’d like to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to the incredible interns who spent the past few months with us. Their energy, curiosity, and enthusiasm have truly enriched…
Congratulations to RAND Project Engineer Jefferson Zamora, PE, CEM, LEED Green Associate on earning his professional license! This outstanding achievement reflects his exceptional qualifications, expertise, and knowledge in the field of engineering, and is a testament to his dedication to…
New Parapet Inspection Requirement Starting January 1, 2024, annual parapet inspections are now required by building owners in New York City. Reports must be kept on file for at least six years. The first compliance deadline is December 31, 2024.…
As state and city regulations continually adapt to maintain the safety and integrity of our buildings, residents, and the public at large, staying up to date with upcoming deadlines and the latest periodic safety inspection requirements can seem like a…
The insightful case summary of 432 Park Avenue Condominium’s recent litigation, authored by Thomas P. Higgins, Partner at Higgins & Trippett and originally published in Habitat Magazine, underscores the significance of comprehensive building condition surveys for new construction projects. These assessments play a critical role in verifying that the unit owner or shareholder received what was purchased and also safeguarding the comfort and safety of residents.
In an exciting development, New York City Mayor Eric Adams has introduced new rules that expand the permitted uses of drones for various services, including building inspections and infrastructure assessments. These changes represent a significant step forward in enhancing building…