Elevator Periodic Inspection and Testing — Category 1 and Category 5

Who is covered

Any building with one or more elevator devices, regardless of size, occupancy, or use. This includes residential, commercial, mixed-use, and institutional buildings.

What the law requires

• Schedule a Category 1 (CAT1) inspection annually for each device through a DOB-licensed inspection agency.
• Schedule a Category 5 (CAT5) full-load safety test for each device every five years.
• Maintain all test records on-site and available for DOB inspection.
• Address any deficiencies identified during testing within 90 days.

Filing frequency and deadlines

Penalty structure

Non-compliance with Elevator (CAT1 / CAT5) can result in the following penalties:

• $1,000 to $5,000 per device per year for failing to complete a required test.
• DOB may issue an order to seal (shut down) an elevator that fails inspection or has not been tested.
• Per-device penalties multiply quickly for buildings with large elevator banks.

Exemptions

• There are no blanket exemptions — all devices must be tested regardless of building size or type.

Recent updates and amendments

DOB has increased enforcement of CAT5 timelines and is cross-referencing elevator registration records with inspection filings to identify non-compliant buildings. Digital filing through DOB NOW is now required.

Reference

Official source: NYC DOB — Elevators