From high-rise facade inspections to complex MEP evaluations, see what it’s really like to intern at RAND. Our 2026 cohort shares their firsthand experience trading classroom theory for active New York City job sites.
At 41 Eastern Parkway in Brooklyn, a coordinated FISP repair, roof replacement, and water tank tower structural program grew as concealed conditions were uncovered. RAND’s work addressed the facade, chronic leakage, roofing, penthouse structure, and water tank tower.
RAND announces the promotion of Peter Scallion, Joanna Kuther, and Jason Damiano to Associate Principal, recognizing their leadership, expertise, and continued contributions to the firm.
As FISP Cycle 10 advances, QEWI availability, access coordination, contractor scheduling, and repair support can become harder to manage. Learn why buildings should schedule inspections before the filing rush.
Congratulations to Peter Varsalona, PE, RA, CEM, CBCP, Principal and Vice President at RAND Engineering & Architecture, DPC, on being named a 2026 Crain’s New York Notable Leader in Architecture, Engineering & Construction. Now in his 34th year at RAND, he leads the firm’s Building Design Group, integrating Architecture, MEP, and Energy Services to support complex building work across New York City.
A FISP inspection is more than a required filing. The consultant’s experience, documentation process, access planning, and understanding of facade restoration can affect how exterior wall conditions are evaluated, classified, and addressed. This article outlines five questions building owners and managers should ask before hiring a FISP consultant in New York City.
Join RAND at the Cooperator Expo for sessions on FISP and parking structures, and connect with our team about compliance, parapets, and Local Law 97.
RAND Engineering & Architecture announces Merrie Sesskin as Business Development Director, bringing 20+ years of AEC experience in growth strategy, client relationships, and market expansion.
Find the FISP Cycle 10 guidance you need, from filing deadlines and inspection requirements to choosing a consultant, planning access, and preparing for repairs.
DOB has confirmed the 2026 sustainability compliance timeline for covered NYC buildings. Key dates include March 31 and May 1 filings, the LL97 June 30/Aug 29 window, and what comes next for LL33 labels and LL87 energy audits, along with practical preparation steps.
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.
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.
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.
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…