Philadelphia, PA Building Safety: Elevator Maintenance (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing Authority
- PA Dept of Labor & Industry
- Inspection
- Annual required
- Code
- 34 Pa. Code Ch. 405 & 7
- Certificate
- Must be posted in cab
Summary
Pennsylvania requires annual elevator inspections under 34 Pa. Code Chapter 405. The Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry has sole jurisdiction over elevator safety statewide, including all elevators in Philadelphia.
§ 405.1. Scope. (a) Application of chapter. This chapter constitutes the Uniform Construction Code technical requirements for elevators and other lifting devices. This chapter applies to the construction, alteration, addition, repair, movement, equipment, removal, maintenance, use and change in use of every elevator and lifting device after April 9, 2004. (b) Exceptions. The Uniform Construction Code does not apply to: (3) Elevators and lifting devices solely in residential buildings used by the occupants of a dwelling unit except where the lifting device is used or accessible by the occupants of more than 1 dwelling unit.
Full Breakdown
Under Pennsylvania's Uniform Construction Code, the Department of Labor and Industry (L&I: the state agency, not the city department) has sole jurisdiction over elevator and escalator safety throughout the state, including Philadelphia (34 Pa. Code Chapter 405 and Chapter 7). All elevators, escalators, dumbwaiters, and moving walks must be inspected annually by a state-certified inspector. Building owners must register equipment with the state and maintain current certificates of operation displayed in each elevator cab. Inspections verify safety devices, door operations, emergency communications, pit conditions, machine room safety, fire service operations, and structural integrity. After major repairs or alterations, a state inspection is required before returning equipment to service. Residential elevators in single-family homes are subject to less stringent requirements but must meet installation codes. The state L&I maintains a database of registered elevators and their inspection status.
Violations & Fines
Operating without a current certificate: fines per state schedule. Failure to correct deficiencies within the reinspection period: escalating penalties. The state may order equipment removed from service for imminent hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sources & Official References
Other rules in Philadelphia
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