Technically reviewed by our licensed engineering partner. Last reviewed: 16 October 2026.
The biggest concern we hear from property owners is paying for work they do not understand. Local Law 11 Inspection and Repair Queens process explains who assesses your building, how we evaluate repair firms, and how you can compare proposals before committing.
Who Does What: Three Roles, Kept Separate
When the same company assesses a building, sells the work, and carries it out, owners may struggle to judge whether proposed costs are justified. We separate these responsibilities to make decisions clearer.
The Licensed Inspector (QEWI)
A qualified exterior-wall professional from our engineering partner network assesses the building, documents findings, establishes the repair scope, and seals the applicable technical report.
The Repair Contractor
Independent firms price the documented requirements. You select the company that best fits your budget, schedule, and project needs.
Our Role: Coordinator and Advocate
We coordinate introductions, help compare proposals, track progress, and organise documentation. We do not personally conduct engineering inspections or undertake construction.
How We Vet Facade Contractors in NYC
Our written screening process is designed to assess relevant qualifications, insurance, safety practices, and experience before a firm is introduced to a property owner.
Licensing and Registrations
We check applicable trade licences and registrations against relevant records before making a referral.
Insurance
We request evidence of general liability, workers' compensation, and disability coverage, as applicable. Coverage and limits should suit the proposed work.
Safety Record and Training
- Crew training: We ask about OSHA training and applicable DOB Site Safety Training.
- Incident and violation history: We review available records and ask about relevant safety incidents.
Facade-Specific Experience
We request recent project examples, photographs, and references for comparable buildings. Exterior masonry, waterproofing, and elevated-access work require relevant experience.
Financial Stability and Capacity
We discuss staffing, supplier arrangements, project scheduling, and the ability to manage work lasting several months.
Ongoing Review
We collect owner feedback and monitor reported workmanship, communication, and scheduling. Firms that fail our established standards may be removed from the referral network.
How We Find a Licensed QEWI in Queens
A Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector must meet New York State licensing and applicable DOB requirements. Our engineering partner arranges qualified professionals to carry out and seal the assessments we coordinate.
What You Receive Before You Sign
Your proposal identifies the professional responsible for the assessment, including their name, licence number, and credentials.
See how our inspection process works.
How to Verify a License Yourself
Check the professional's registration through the NYS Office of the Professions. Confirm the licence is current before authorising the work.
Why the Inspector Stays Independent
The engineering professional defines the necessary work without selling the construction. This separation helps owners assess recommendations on their technical merits.
How Bids and Pricing Work
Step 1: One Scope for Everyone
Each participating firm receives the same specifications, quantities, and documented findings.
Step 2: Two to Three Comparable Bids
Where available, we aim to obtain two or three proposals. Compare quantities, unit prices, exclusions, schedules, and warranties.
Step 3: You Decide
There is no obligation to accept a proposal. You select the firm or ask us to review a quote obtained independently.
Protection Against Surprise Costs
- Require written approval for changes before additional work proceeds.
- Check unit prices and quantities against the original scope.
- Retain photographs documenting conditions before they are concealed.
What We Don't Do, and How We Are Paid
What We Don't Do
Your proposal explicitly identifies the licensed professional responsible for your assessment, including their name, registration number, and credentials.
See how our inspection process works.
How We Are Paid
Our facade coordination services are completely free to building owners. We are compensated via a standard referral fee paid by the independent repair contractors within our network when they are successfully awarded a project. This fee is paid out of their existing marketing budget and never inflates your project's unit pricing or material scopes.
Conflicts of Interest
We strictly separate technical engineering recommendations from commercial repair decisions. Any financial relationship that could potentially influence a project recommendation will be fully disclosed in writing before you sign a contract.
How We Match Contractors Across Queens Neighborhoods
Building age, materials, access requirements, and environmental exposure influence which experience matters most.
Prewar Brick Buildings: Masonry Specialists
In Astoria, Sunnyside, and Ridgewood, we look for experience with ageing brickwork, mortar joints, lintels, and traditional masonry details.
Newer Mid-Rise and Tower Buildings: Sealant and Panel Specialists
For newer developments around Long Island City and Flushing, relevant experience may include facade panels, perimeter sealants, and window interfaces.
Tall Buildings: Swing-Stage and Rope-Access Crews
High-rise properties in Forest Hills and Rego Park may require specialist access systems, suitable equipment, and documented working-at-height training.
Coastal Buildings: Corrosion Experience
Properties around Far Rockaway and Howard Beach may need expertise in corrosion, exposed metal connections, sealants, and moisture protection.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Network
Who is the inspector on my project, and can I verify their license?
Your proposal identifies the responsible engineering professional and their credentials. Verify their registration through the NYS Office of the Professions.
Is the inspector connected to the contractors?
The engineering professional establishes the technical scope separately from the construction bids. Disclose any relevant financial relationships that could affect independence.
Do you charge owners or get paid by contractors?
Our compensation arrangements must be explained in writing before you commit. Ask for confirmation of owner fees, referral payments, and any relevant financial relationships.
Can I use my own contractor?
Yes. You can request a comparison of your existing proposal against the documented requirements, subject to the scope of our coordination service.
How many bids will I get?
We aim for two or three proposals when suitable firms are available. The number is not guaranteed. Compare scope, quantities, exclusions, timing, and warranty terms.
What if I have a problem with a contractor?
Contact us promptly so the concern can be documented and discussed with the firm. Because construction companies operate independently, contractual disputes may require advice from your attorney.
Get a Free Quote From a Vetted Team
Tell us about your property, its height, and your concerns. We will explain the available options and provide a written quote without pressure.
Assessments are performed by appropriately licensed professionals. Construction is undertaken by independent firms. Compensation arrangements will be disclosed before engagement.
