Under a new section of Local Law 126, all buildings with parapets are required to have their public-facing parapets undergo close-up inspections yearly, regardless of height.

A detailed report must also be prepared and retained by the building owner.

• * Detached 1- or 2- family homes or buildings with a fence or other barrier preventing access to the exterior wall are exempt from this requirement *

HAWA Engineering can not only conduct these inspections and develop detailed reports but also design for all repairs and ensure restoration work is completed promptly.

Observations must include:

• A determination that the parapet is plumb by a horizontal distance within one-eighth of its cross-sectional thickness in any location

• A determination of whether there is excessive deterioration, including, but not limited to, displacement, horizontal or diagonal cracks, missing or loose bricks or coping stones, deteriorated mortar joints, spalling, or rot

• A determination that appurtenances such as telecommunications equipment, railings, roof access rails, gooseneck ladders and handrail attachments for fire escapes, and signs, have been installed and maintained in a stable condition.