The tests and inspections the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) requires for every elevator, when each report is due, and what a missed one costs. Every figure links to its source.
Last checked Sep 30, 2026. General information, not legal advice.
The key dates each year, and how to finish every test on time.
ReadWho performs and witnesses the annual no-load test, and how it differs from the periodic inspection.
ReadThe rated load and speed test, due every five years. A missed report costs $5,000.
ReadEach report, who files it, and when it is due.
ReadCorrect defects within 90 days and confirm the fix to DOB within 14 days of it.
ReadThe penalty tables for both building classes, and who pays them.
ReadLicense types and fees under Labor Law Article 33, and the $10,000 maximum penalty for unlicensed work.
ReadDOB says category tests are witnessed. The ELV3 test report form needs no witness signature for:
| Event | When | File within | Never filed, per elevator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat 1 test | Once a year, Jan 1–Dec 31 | 21 days; not accepted after Jan 21 | $3,000 |
| Periodic inspection | Once a year, at least 90 days from the Cat 1 | 14 days; not accepted after Jan 14 | $3,000 |
| Cat 5 test | Within 5 years of the month of the last Cat 5 | 21 days; not accepted after the 21st of the month after the anniversary | $5,000 |
| Cat 3 test (water-hydraulic elevators only) | Within 3 years of the month of the last Cat 3 | 21 days | $5,000 |
| Defect correction | 90 days from the test or inspection; hazards immediately | Affirmation of correction within 14 days of the fix | $3,000 if not done by day 104 (90 + 14) |
Amounts are for commercial, mixed-use and 3+ unit residential buildings. In 1–2 family homes, a never-filed Cat 1, Cat 3 or Cat 5 report, or an uncorrected defect, costs $1,000. Source: 1 RCNY §103-02 (DOB’s elevator inspection rule) and DOB’s Elevator Compliance page.
LiftAuth’s Annual Inspections lists every elevator’s next due date. Each witnessing agency is an Auditor in LiftAuth: it books a time from your Team’s calendar through one link, and the Building Manager agrees to it. Defects are logged as Issues against the elevator, with photos. LiftAuth does not file in DOB NOW: Safety; the performing agency files.
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