Manhattan elevators require annual DOB Category 1 inspections, 5-year Category 5 tests, and continuous licensed maintenance under NYC Admin Code Title 28.
New York County high-rise buildings rely on elevators for habitability and safety. NYC Administrative Code Title 28 Chapter 3 and the NYC Building Code Chapter 30 require all elevators and escalators to be maintained by a licensed elevator agency director under continuous Maintenance, Control, and Safety Programs (MCP). Annual Category 1 (CAT1) periodic inspections and tests are required by licensed private inspection agencies with independent witness. Category 5 (CAT5) comprehensive tests occur every five years. Results are filed with the NYC Department of Buildings through the Elevator Information System (EIS). Unsatisfactory reports trigger a 120-day window to correct defects; continued failure results in shutdown and violations. Local Law 10 of 1981 and subsequent legislation also require door monitoring and roller guide safety devices on older elevators. Building owners, managing agents, and elevator maintenance companies share liability.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how New York County's elevator maintenance rules stack up against other locations.
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