DOB is taking a closer look at how QEWIs inspect facades, document conditions, and justify repair strategies in Cycle 10. Reports involving decorative materials like terra cotta and stone are receiving especially detailed review, making it important for owners and managers to understand DOB’s focus and prepare stronger filings.

New York City’s new Get Sheds Down study is recommending major updates to the Facade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP), from a longer inspection cycle to more targeted sidewalk shed use, tailored rules for lower-risk buildings, and expanded drone inspections. Learn what DOB is considering for Cycle 11, and what boards and managers should focus on now under the current Cycle 10 rules.

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.

  At RAND, giving back is woven into everyday life, from office fundraisers and volunteer days to donation drives that support our neighbors across New York City. Through our RAND Gives Back program, staff come together throughout the year to...

With 2025 winding down, it's time to start planning for 2026 New York City local law compliance. Our 2026 NYC Building Compliance Calendar highlights early-year milestones (PIPS Cycle 1C opening January 1 and FISP Cycle 10B window opening February 21), mid-year filings (LL84 Benchmarking and LL97 Carbon Emissions on May 1), and the year-end cluster (boilers, elevators, parapets, LL97, LL152, LL87, PIPS checklist, and more).

FISP and Sidewalk Shed Myths That Can Cost You Time and Money
Think you know the rules? These five common misunderstandings about NYC’s Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) and sidewalk shed requirements can lead to costly violations, project delays, and missed opportunities—especially with Cycle 10 inspections underway and Local Law 47 now in effect.

In this article, we break down the top myths, explain what’s actually required by DOB, and share tips to help building owners and managers stay ahead of fines, avoid unnecessary work, and make smarter decisions for their property.

New to FISP? Learn how to determine if your NYC building is required to file its first Facade Inspection Safety Program (FISP) report in Cycle 10 (2025–2029). Includes eligibility rules, TCO/CO guidance, sub-cycle filing windows, and inspection requirements.

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.