Inspections and Testing

The Fire Department of New York (FDNY) inspects buildings and other places in New York City. They do this to make sure that code, laws, rules or regulations are being enforced to keep the public safe.

They make sure fire systems work well. Some inspections can be scheduled ahead of time on FDNY Business. These include:

• Permits
• Tests that need an FDNY witness
• Re-inspections of open violations

Other inspections may happen without warning.

The owner must:

• Keep the building and all structures safe.
• Follow the Fire Code.
• Make needed repairs.

• To ask for an inspection, go to the Apply Online page to log in to FDNY Business. You will need to enter:

  • The type of inspection or test you want
  • The unit you want to inspect
  • The date(s) you are free for the inspection
  • A short description and any papers related to the inspection
  • Contact information of any people at the location
  • After you send your request, you will get a request number.

• Follow the steps on the FDNY Business Inspections page for the type of inspection you need.

• The Inspection unit will get your request: They will look at it and may ask for more details.
• They will set up your inspection once they have all the details: You will get a notice with the date and time. If a contractor sets it up, they must tell the owner about the inspection.
• If you ask for an inspection after normal hours, you will pay extra overtime rates: These fees are in the 2022 Fire Code (Appendix A).

• Inspection results and actions: These depend on the type of inspection. Pay invoices online at FDNY Business. Permits will be emailed to the contact given during the inspection request.

• Permit posting: Permits must be posted where they can be seen. They must be available for FDNY inspection.

• Permit transferability: Permits cannot be transferred. If there are changes in occupancy, operation, tenancy or ownership, you need a new permit.

• Permit duration: Permits are valid for up to two years. They expire at the end of that period.

• Compliance: Follow the requirements in the Letter of Approval. Permits can be revoked if you do not follow the requirements.

• Send the completed application online with all papers.
• Pay on FDNY Business to submit your application. To pay extra fees after sending, use one of these methods:
  
  Online (preferred):
  Pay online at FDNY Business (credit, debit or e-check accepted).
  
  US Mail (check must have FDNY Business Record ID):
  NYC Fire Department (FDNY)
  Bureau of Fire Prevention
  9 MetroTech Center, Attn: Cashier's Unit (1st Floor)
  Brooklyn, NY 11201