Fire Escape Inspection and Design
Securing the safety of New York City’s fire escapes
Fire escapes, beloved by moviemakers, have crisscrossed New York City’s historic streetscapes since the 1860s, but years of exposure to the elements can turn these lifesaving structures into hazards. Corrosion, loose bolts, and structural weaknesses can all be potential dangers, often hidden below layers of paint.
Building owners and property managers are responsible for maintaining their fire escapes, also known as exterior egress systems. They might be iconic, but they also need to be safe, functional, and compliant with local regulations.
CANY’s Fire Escape Assessment and Design Service identifies problems before they escalate, protecting occupants and pedestrians below. For landmarked buildings, any repair, modification, or replacement must also comply with Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) guidelines to preserve architectural character. ****Our rigorous survey safeguards your fire escape and aids compliance, in line with the Façade Inspection and Safety Program (FISP) and the Department of Buildings (DOB) five-year inspection requirements, and the LPC if required.
Protect your building’s safety and historic value.
Why Fire Escape Assessment and Design Matters
For many older buildings, fire escapes serve as both critical emergency exits and iconic architectural elements. However, without routine inspections and maintenance, they can become unsafe, putting occupants, pedestrians and the building’s compliance status at risk.
Common challenges:
Corrosion and rust – years of exposure to the elements weaken metal structures, making them unsafe
Hidden structural issues – decades of paint can conceal deterioration, delaying necessary repairs.
Loose or damaged bolts – compromised supports can lead to structural failure.
Code compliance - fire escapes must meet FISP, DOB and, where applicable LPC regulations.
Preservation Requirements – Landmarked buildings must adhere to all LPC guidelines for modifications or restorations
Regular inspections ensure that fire escapes remain reliable, prevent costly emergency repairs, and protect both people and property.
CANY’s Involvement
With almost 30 years of experience in fire escape assessment, CANY’s approach to fire escape safety is proactive, minimizing liability and maintaining historical integrity. We follow a structured process to achieve safety, longevity and compliance.
Initial Assessment & Consultation – site visit to evaluate the fire escape’s condition, identify potential risks, and determine LPC requirements (if applicable).
Detailed Analysis & Planning – structural review, testing for corrosion, joint integrity, and compliance with safety and preservation codes.
Execution & Implementation –repair or restoration recommendations, coordination with property owners, engineers and contractors
Ongoing Support & Compliance – Guidance on maintenance, LPC filings, regulatory updates, and future inspections to keep structures safe and compliant.
Key Benefits
Proactive Safety Measures – Identify and fix risks before they become hazards.
FISP & LPC Compliance – Meet NYC’s Department of Buildings' (DOB) and Landmark Preservation Commission (LPC) requirements.
Cost-Effective Solutions – Avoid emergency repairs with scheduled inspections and maintenance.
Preserving Architectural Integrity – Maintain the historic and visual value of landmarked buildings.
Expert-Led Inspections – Conducted by experienced engineers specializing in fire escape assessments and preservation.
Investing in regular inspections helps property owners safeguard their buildings, protect occupants, and ensure long-term compliance.
FAQ
How often should a fire escape be inspected?
In New York City, fire escapes must be inspected every five years as part of the Façade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP). However, regular visual checks and maintenance between official inspections are recommended to ensure safety.
What are the most common fire escape issues found during an inspection?
Frequent issues include loose or missing bolts, rust or corrosion, deteriorated welds, cracked or unstable platforms, and excessive layers of paint hiding structural defects. Our experts assess the condition and recommend cost-effective solutions to restore compliance.
What happens if my fire escape fails an inspection?
If issues are found, you’ll receive a report outlining necessary repairs. Depending on the severity, you may need to take immediate action to restore safety and compliance. CANY can guide you through the repair process and ensure all work meets city regulations.
Why did NYC ban fire escapes?
As buildings grew taller and the use of fire detectors became more common, these exterior escape routes fell out of favor. In fact, in 1968 building code banned their construction in new buildings, with some exceptions.
Does CANY handle fire escape assessments outside of NYC?
Yes. While we specialize in NYC compliance (DOB, FISP, LPC), we also assist clients nationwide with historic fire escape analysis, restoration design, and code consulting.
