Tag Archive: RAND

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.

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.

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.

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.