If you’re responsible for filing retaining wall reports in NYC, take note. Updates to the Department of Buildings rule took effect on March 23, 2025. These changes affect inspection procedures, filing classifications, and penalty fees.
Let’s walk through what changed and how it affects your responsibilities.
Penalties Are Now Much Higher
Failing to file a report now costs $5,000 per year, up from $1,000. Submitting a report late will cost $1,000 per month instead of $250.
There’s also a new $2,000 penalty if you don’t correct SREM conditions. That applies to walls marked as safe but needing repair or monitoring.
If you’re unsure about payment or challenges, the DOB has posted detailed instructions in its October 1, 2024, service notice.
Inspectors Have More Flexibility but Higher Expectations
Qualified Retaining Wall Inspectors (QRWIs) no longer need DOB approval before starting inspections.
Instead, they must follow accepted standards of care and design inspection programs that allow for a complete review of the wall. This simplifies the process on paper but also places more responsibility on the inspector to meet code requirements.
If the inspection finds conditions that are unsafe or require minor repairs or monitoring, those must now be documented with both photos and a mapped layout. This added step helps clarify what was found and how it was classified.
The DOB also updated how reports should be labeled, whether the wall is safe, SREM, or unsafe. That includes clearer instructions for any follow-up filings if unsafe conditions are present.
Filing Extensions
Requesting an extension to complete repairs is now less complicated. The DOB has simplified how you submit those requests, cutting down on delays and paperwork.
Read the full amended rule text in 1 RCNY 103-09. You’ll find it on the DOB Retaining Wall page.
Need to file a report? Review the January 30, 2023, Industry Notice for step-by-step filing instructions.
If you still have questions, reach out to LretainingWalls@buildings.nyc.gov.
