Local Law 152 requires periodic inspections of gas piping systems. The law was originally passed as part of a larger unit of laws and regulations surrounding gas line safety.
Do my buildings require an inspection?
All buildings in NYC, other than single- and two-family dwellings, require an inspection in the first 4-year cycle. Buildings without gas service require certification from a licensed design professional that gas is not being used in the building, and buildings with gas require an inspection as detailed by Local Law 152 (2016), with final rules published 9/23/19.
When is my first inspection due date?
Inspections for the gas piping systems are being organized by Community District, with the first cycle start date beginning on January 1, 2020. After the initial inspection, inspections must be performed and submitted to the DOB every four years.
The due date cycles for the four groups of Community Districts are as follows:
- Community Districts 1, 3, and 10 in all boroughs: January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2020
- Community Districts 2, 5, 7, 13, and 18 in all boroughs: January 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021
- Community Districts 4, 6, 8, 9, and 16 in all boroughs: January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022
- Community Districts 11, 12, 14, 15, and 17 in all boroughs: January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023
How much does the inspection cost?
Inspection costs can range from $1,000 to upwards of $10,000.
How often to do I need to get my gas system inspected?
Inspections will be due every four years on the anniversary of the previous inspection, beginning on January 1, 2024. Inspections can be submitted early, but they cannot be conducted more than 60 days before the official due date.
What is the fine if I don’t comply?
Failure to file an Inspection Certification before the applicable due date may result in a civil penalty of $10,000.00.
How long do I have to make repairs?
120 days from the date of inspection for minor issues, an additional 60 days for a total of 180 days can be requested to address larger issues. If gas service is interrupted repairs must be completed and certified prior to the re-establishment of gas service.
Does the inspection involve pressure testing of my gas piping?
No, the law does not require pressure testing. A Combustible Gas Indicator Device (gas sniffer) is utilized by the inspector to detect gas leaks.
What if the Utility shuts off my gas due to the discovery of a leak, hazardous or abnormal operating condition?
You’ll need Licensed Master Plumber to make any required repairs. The plumber will:
- File for a permit with the DOB
- Pressure test the system to find any leaks
- Make required repairs
- Pressure test the system to confirm system integrity after repairs
- Arrange for and be present at a DOB physical inspection which will include a pressure test
- Obtain gas authorization, complete any required utility paperwork and arrange for gas turn-on
What happens if my gas service needs to be shut off to perform repairs required under Local Law 152?
You’ll need Licensed Master Plumber to make any required repairs. The plumber will:
- Request the utility company to shut off service
- File for a permit with the DOB
- Pressure test the system to find any leaks
- Make required repairs
- Pressure test the system to confirm system integrity after repairs
- Arrange for and be present at a DOB physical inspection which will include a pressure test
- Obtain gas authorization, complete any required utility paperwork and arrange for gas turn-on
Does the plumber who identifies hazardous conditions during an inspection need to be the plumber who makes the repairs?
No, you can use any properly qualified plumber to make the repairs. However, the repairs must be certified by the plumber who performed the original inspection.
Should I have an inspection in advance of my building’s due date?
An advance inspection will not meet the DOB filing requirements and a LL152 inspection conducted within the prescribed timeframe for your building will still be required. It will let you know your exposure and allow you to handle repairs over an extended period of time.