Every FISP / Local Law 11 facade filing is signed by a QEWI. Here's what that is, who qualifies, and what they're responsible for.
A QEWI — Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector — is the licensed professional authorized under NYC Local Law 11 / FISP to inspect a building's exterior walls and file the Technical Facade Report with the Department of Buildings, classifying the facade as Safe, SWARMP, or Unsafe.
Only a New York State licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) who meets the DOB's FISP experience requirements. A building owner cannot self-certify — the inspection and filing must carry the QEWI's seal.
Conducts a close-up physical inspection of the facade, documents conditions, and files the report with one of three statuses. A SWARMP filing means repairs are required before the next cycle; an Unsafe filing forces an immediate sidewalk shed. Current schedule: FISP Cycle 10.
When a QEWI files a building SWARMP or UNSAFE, that building now needs repair work. NYC Data Co maintains the scored, owner-enriched feed of exactly those buildings — sold one contractor per borough.