Parapet wall & coping repair in NYC
Parapets take more weather than any other part of a building, and buildings with street-facing parapets generally need an annual observation under DOB’s parapet rule. When yours finds a problem, we repair it.
What we repair
- Repointing and rebuilding loose, leaning or bulging parapets
- Resetting or replacing cracked and loose coping stones
- Through-wall and roof-edge flashing where the parapet meets the roof
- Brick replacement and crack repair at parapet corners
- Securing or removing loose railings and attachments
The annual parapet observation rule
- NYC’s parapet rule (1 RCNY 103-15) generally requires owners of buildings with parapets fronting a public right-of-way to have them observed every year.
- It applies regardless of building height; detached one- and two-family homes are exempt.
- Unsafe conditions generally require immediate public protection and prompt repair.
- Buildings in Local Law 11 / FISP still need annual parapet observations between FISP inspections.
Warning signs
- Leaning, cracked or bulging sections
- Open or missing mortar joints at the top courses
- Loose, rocking or cracked coping stones
- Top-floor leaks along exterior walls
- Rust staining from railings or steel
Masonry near you
- Masonry in Brooklyn
- Masonry in Queens
- Masonry in Manhattan
- Masonry in The Bronx
- Masonry in Staten Island
Related: Parapet rule guide · Tuckpointing & repointing · Local Law 11 / FISP facade repair · Masonry & brick pointing
Common questions
Who can do the annual parapet observation?
DOB’s rule sets who may perform observations (see DOB’s parapet FAQ). We perform the repairs; for the observation itself, follow DOB’s requirements.
Repair or rebuild a parapet?
Minor joint and coping problems can often be repaired; leaning or bulging parapets usually need rebuilding. We’ll explain what we see.
Does parapet work need a permit?
Rebuilding often requires DOB permits and sidewalk protection; minor repairs may not. We’ll go over it for your building.
General information only, not legal advice.
Got a leak, a crack or a violation notice?
Tell us what’s going on and we’ll schedule a free estimate.