Philadelphia Façade Inspection Ordinance

Overview

The Façade Inspection Ordinance in Philadelphia mandates that all buildings six stories or taller undergo regular inspections to ensure the safety and integrity of their exterior façades. This ordinance, implemented in response to incidents of falling debris from aging buildings, requires property owners to have their façades inspected by a licensed professional every five years. The primary goal is to identify and address potential hazards, such as loose bricks, deteriorated mortar or other structural issues, before they pose a risk to public safety. If any dangerous conditions are found, the property owner is obligated to make the necessary repairs promptly.

Section PM-315 Periodic Inspection Of Exterior Walls And Appurtenances Of Buildings

Philadelphia's ordinance is part of a broader trend among cities with significant numbers of high-rise buildings, aiming to prevent accidents and ensure public safety in densely populated urban areas. The inspections must be documented in a report submitted to the city's Department of Licenses and Inspections, detailing the current condition of the façade and any required maintenance or repairs. Failure to comply with the ordinance can result in penalties, including fines and legal action. This proactive approach emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance and vigilance in the upkeep of the city's architectural landscape.

Inspection Report

In addition to the visual inspection, a written report must be administered by the registered professional. The inspection report and an affidavit from the building owner must be submitted to the City of Philadelphia. Based on the findings from the inspection, the report classifies a building's façade into one of three categories:

Safe

• No visible damage or only minor to moderate defects or deterioration observed, but no overstressing observed.
• Structural and/or exterior wall elements may show very minor deterioration, but no overstressing observed.
• No repairs are required.

Safe With Repair & Maintenance Program

• All primary structural and/or exterior wall elements are sound, but minor to moderate defects or deterioration observed.
• Areas of moderate to advanced deterioration may be present, but do not significantly reduce the capacity of the structure.
• Repairs are recommended and may need to be carried out within the time frame designated by the professional or by such time necessary to prevent a condition from becoming an unsafe condition, whichever is sooner.
• Required repairs must be described in an engineer’s report and uploaded with this certification.
• Upon completion of the repairs, the professional shall complete a post-repair inspection and submit new inspection form.

Unsafe/Imminent Danger

• A condition of which any part thereof is dangerous to persons or property and in need of prompt remedial action. The engineer’s report shall be submitted when this level of assessment rating is selected.
• The Department of Licenses and Inspections Emergency Services Unit shall be notified by phone (215.686.2480) within 12 hours of discovery and a report containing details of the condition and recommended temporary safety measures shall be uploaded with this summary inspection report.

Filing Deadline

Thornton Tomasetti ensures that periodic façade inspections are conducted for all buildings that are six or more stories tall. For these buildings, the required façade inspections and report filings must adhere to a specific schedule, which may vary based on the previous report submission for each individual building.

How We Can Help

Thornton Tomasetti’s Restoration & Renewal team provides property owners and managers with solutions to a wide range of structural and façade needs for properties of every use, age and construction type. We have tremendous expertise in performing structural and façade assessments in cities throughout the U.S., including experience with the Philadelphia Façade Ordinance.

Our local team of engineering and architectural experts is ready to help with all your needs and any required follow-on measures – including preparing and filing repair documents, assisting with contractor bidding and performing construction-phase services. In addition to completing the inspections and reports required by the City of Philadelphia, we can also assist with façade maintenance programs and/or repair programs to meet the specific needs of each building and each owner.

Contact Us To Get Started

Contact us directly using the form below and we'll respond as soon as possible. If you'd prefer to speak directly to a firm representative, please call our Philadelphia office at +1.267.238.4000.