Yes, though each Special Inspection type has specific qualification requirements. These qualifications are listed in Appendix A of the Special Inspection rule, 1 RCNY 101-06.
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Special inspections have been mandatory for construction jobs whose applications were submitted on or after July 1, 2008.
No. Progress inspections are defined in BC 109 and 1 RCNY 101-07. Special inspections are defined in BC 17 and 1 RCNY 101-06. When specified by the Code, Progress Inspectors verify that required Special Inspections were performed and that work was substantially completed.
Progress inspections verify substantial compliance with the Code and approved construction documents during the progress of work. Special Inspections examine selected materials, equipment, installation, fabrication, erection, components, and connections for compliance with approved documents and referenced standards.
Yes, as long as serving as the design professional of record does not create a conflict of interest. The registered design professional must not engage in activities that conflict with objective judgment and integrity.
No. A separate business entity is not required, though it is an option.
No. The Special Inspection rule prohibits a director from being retained by another agency that provides special inspection or testing services.
No. The Special Inspection rule prohibits a director from working at multiple agencies performing special inspections.
The primary and alternate directors must remain available to the Department for inquiries, provide required supervision, and have no conflicting work that prevents adequate and timely oversight or response.
Registration began on May 14, 2012. Starting November 13, 2012, Special Inspection Agencies were required to be registered to perform applicable special inspections.
An agency may register for the inspection types for which it has the qualifications identified in Appendix A of 1 RCNY 101-06.
No. Special Inspection Agencies register with the Department, while individual inspectors must satisfy the qualifications for the work they perform.
Yes. DOB encourages registered agencies to publish their agency number on promotional materials.
Yes, but a Class 2 or Class 3 Special Inspection Agency cannot perform work requiring a Class 1 agency. Project scope and the applicable agency class must be confirmed before ordering.
The Special Inspection Agency’s primary director or an authorized alternate director identified on the agency registration signs the TR1 form.
Retain the agency early enough to accept responsibility before the relevant work begins and to coordinate required observations while the work remains visible.
The inspector may be unable to verify compliance. The work may need to be exposed or supported by another method accepted by the design and regulatory team.
No. Additional visits caused by incomplete or noncompliant work generally require a separate order unless the product description states otherwise.
Yes. An agency may register as Class 1 for some inspection types and Class 2 or Class 3 for others, subject to the qualifications and limitations in the Special Inspection rule.
The Temporary Reference Number appears at the bottom of the PDF copy of the SIA1 form and in the confirmation email sent after the form is submitted. It is not the Special Inspection Agency number.
The agency number is issued after DOB approves the registration. Until approval, that section cannot be completed; DOB sends the approved agency number by email.
Yes. DOB maintains a list of registered agencies, and registration can also be checked through the Buildings Information System using the agency or director name.
An agency must have a New York City address or satisfy the applicable New York State Secretary of State registration requirements for an authorized entity.
A utility bill, lease, or deed is accepted as proof of the agency’s New York City business address.
No. Registered design professionals are required to carry professional liability insurance, which satisfies this requirement.
Companies operating with or employing more than one individual generally must obtain workers compensation insurance. Applicable exemptions depend on the company structure and whether it has employees.
No. Accreditation is required for Class 1 Special Inspection Agencies.
Beginning November 13, 2012, the Special Inspection Agency number must be included on the TR1 form.
The amendment was published in the City Record on April 13, 2012 and became effective on May 13, 2012. Registration began on May 14, 2012 and became mandatory on November 13, 2012.
The rule identifies duties and responsibilities, while applicable inspection requirements are also established throughout the NYC Construction Codes and approved construction documents.
Buildings Bulletin 2018-008 addresses Directive 14 applications and the responsibility for required final inspections. Owners and project teams should confirm the filing path, permit status, required inspections, and sign-off responsibilities with their filing and inspection professionals.
Yes. Add each eligible inspection to your WooCommerce cart and complete one secure checkout.
Yes. Use the Request a Quote page for large, unusual, multi-visit, or out-of-area projects.
Yes. Long Island work is reviewed individually so the team can confirm travel, scope, and availability.
Use the Contact page or Request a Quote form. The team will review availability, certification, location, and project scope before responding.
Complete inquiries are typically reviewed within one business day. Urgent requests should also call (646) 396-1924.
Yes. Submit the dedicated Scan to Plan enquiry with property size, furnishing status, requested deliverables, address, timeline, and project notes.