Chimney Inspection FAQs

Summer is right around the corner, which means we’ll be spending more time outdoors. And with temperatures on the rise, it’s inevitable that we won’t need the help of our fireplaces to keep us warm. Because our chimneys will be used less often this season, it’s the ideal time to get your chimney inspected.

You may be wondering: what is a chimney inspection and how does it work? In an attempt to clarify, here are a few FAQ:

What is a chimney inspection?
A close examination of both the interior and exterior of a chimney. Chimney inspections involve a thorough search for any damage, deterioration, buildups, and other types of blockage. You want the passageway to be clean and clear, so you’re safe to turn on your fireplace.

How is a Chimney inspected?
The National Fire Protection Association has designated three types of inspections:

Level one - a general examination. Your inspector will look at the structure of your chimney, including the flue liner, joints, connectors, interiors walls, and so forth. It will also be checked for any obstructions that could cause a fire to spark.

Level two - required for transfer or sale of a property, or if a fire has recently damaged the chimney. During this part of the inspection, special tools will be used to access more hidden areas. They key is the look for any concealed hazards.

Level three - necessary if level two shows signs of damage. This part involves removal of structural parts for easier access to the areas of main concern.

How often do I need a chimney inspection?
Annual inspections are recommended, even if you don’t use your fireplace often. Why? Because debris can easily clog the space regardless of its use, which is a fire hazard. Chimney flutes are also a perfect spot for birds to build their nests - one other obstruction you want to avoid.

AM & Associates is your source for chimney inspection and other related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.

Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

First Look Inside Battery Park City’s New Super-Sized Condos

The new waterfront Battery Park City building is now ready for NYC residents! Just on the corner of Warren Street stands a luxurious redesign - holding only 169 condos.

With a drastically reduced apartment count, the residences are large. The building’s smallest apartment is still over 1,000 square feet and has two bedrooms. The biggest apartment size holds five bedrooms. From the smallest apartment to the largest one, you’re looking to spend about $2 million to $10 million.

The new designs are finished with hardwood flooring, an eat-in kitchen, lots of natural sunlight, and luxury bathrooms. Add in tall windows overlooking the beautiful Battery Park and you’ve got yourself an apartment worth investing in!

The building’s penthouses have yet to come to market, which will exceed asking prices of $10 million. They will offer private rooftop space with outdoor kitchens. Look for them later this Spring!

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

AM & Associates is your source for special inspection and related services in New York and the entire metropolitan area. With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.
Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

AM & Associates: Services We offer

What kind of construction plans do you have set for the spring? Big or small, safety and proper attention to detail should always be your top concerns! That's why special inspections are a vital component in the building experience.

Which services can Alan Margolin and Associates provide for you in the New York and Metropolitan area? Below is a complete list of special inspection services we offer:

Sprinkler Systems

Standpipe Systems

Energy Code Compliance

Mechanical Systems

Heating Systems

Fuel-Oil Storage and Fuel-Oil Piping Systems

Fire-Resistant Penetrations and Joints

Fire-Resistance Rated Construction

Sprayed Fire-Resistant Materials

Structural Steel

Structural Stability – Existing Buildings

Concrete

Masonry

Wood

Soils

Deep Foundation Elements

Helical Piles

Wall Panels, Curtain Walls, and Veneers

Mastic and Intumescent Fire-Resistant Coatings

Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS)

High-Pressure Fuel-Gas Piping (Welding)

Excavations - Sheeting, Shoring, and Bracing

Underpinning

Private On-Site Storm Water Drainage Disposal & Detention

Flood Zone Compliance

Luminous Egress Path Markings

Emergency and Standby Power Systems (Generators)

Post-Installed Anchors

Preliminary

Footing and Foundation

Structural Wood Frame

Public Assembly Emergency Lighting

Final Inspection

And more…

With over 50 years of experience, we are known for both our high standards and specialized services. We have supported the work of some of the largest and most prestigious developers, retailers and more.

Call us today at 212.867.6720 or visit our website for more information.

Why Our Special Inspection Structure Works

At Alan Margolin & Associates, we've developed a sophisticated special inspection practice through decades of extensive experience in the construction industry and established a reputation of taking a proactive approach to keep projects on schedule while safe guarding against costly defects and code violations. What does this mean for you? We'll catch construction defects BEFORE they cause delays and costly repairs. Other benefits of our structure include:

• Open communication among the agency, general contractor and the owner
• Additional set of trained eyes to ensure the quality of the project
• Long standing relationships enable daily communication with design firms
• Comprehensive internal review process ensures prompt distribution

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients. For more on why our special inspection structure works, see our YouTube video below:

 

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

Why Our IAS Accreditation Matters

AM & Associates is accredited by one of the world leaders in accreditation, the International Accreditation Service, or the IAS. This is a distinction held by few firms in the country and recognizes that our organization operates at the highest level of ethical, legal and technical standards. The IAS has been accrediting firms based on rigorous criteria since 1975. In fact, we were one of the first agencies in the NYC metro area permitted to perform Special Inspections. 

What does this mean? You can count on us to ensure that construction work is completed in accordance to applicable building codes. Our clients needs are met in a professional and timely fashion and the safety of their workers and future inhabitants is ensured. 

Want the details on IAS criteria for special inspection agencies? Click here. 

AM & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including mechanical, structural, fire, and life safety to name a few. For a full list of inspections provided, please click here.

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

Why Choose Alan Margolin & Associates

Alan Margolin & Associates has been the leading provider of engineering services to NYC and the surrounding boroughs for over fifty years. We take a professional approach to each project and have been privileged to work on some of the city's most iconic structures such as the Chrysler Building, Time Warner Center, the Empire State Building, and 30 Rockefeller Center- to name a few.

AM & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including mechanical, structural, fire, and life safety to name a few. For a full list of inspections provided, please click here.

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

Are you interested in learning more about our services? Please see the following video:





Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google

AM & Associates Special Inspections

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

AM & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including mechanical, structural, fire, and life safety to name a few. For a full list of inspections provided, please see the following:

Photoluminescent Exit Path Markings

Structural Steel- Welding, Erection and Bolding

Structural Cold- Formed Steel

Concrete- Cast-in-place, Precast, Pre-stressed

Masonry

Soils- Site Preparation, Fill Placement and in-Place Density, investigations (Borings/ Test Pits)

Wall Panels, Curtain Walls and Veneers

Sprayed Fire-Resistant Materials

Exterior Insulation Finish Systems (EIFS)

Alternative Materials- OTCR Buildings Bulletin

Smoke Control Systems

Mechanical Systems

Fuel-Oil Storage and Fuel-Oil piping Systems

High-Pressure Steam Piping (Welding)

Fuel-Gas Piping (Welding)

Structural Safety/ Stability

Site Storm drainage Disposal and Detention System Installation

Sprinkler Systems

Standpipe Systems

Heating Systems

Chimneys

Firestop, Draftstop and Fireblock Systems

Aluminum Welding

Seismic Isolation Systems

Concrete Test Cylinders

Frame Inspection

Energy Code Compliance Inspections

Fire-Resistance Rate Construction

Public Assemble Emergency Lighting

Final

Alan Margolin & Associates has been the leading provider of engineering services to NYC and the surrounding boroughs for over fifty years. We take a professional approach to each project and have been privileged to work on some of the city's most iconic structures such as the Chrysler Building, Time Warner Center, the Empire State Building, and 30 Rockefeller Center- to name a few.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

Building Checklist For Inspections

 

AM & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including mechanical, structural, fire, and life safety to name a few. It is important be educated about the inspection process. The following checklist is an outline of a building inspection:

 

Access and Premises

Building address is clear and visible from the street.

Exterior access is clear.

Fire department connection is clear, visible, and readily accessible.

Lockbox is accessible.

 

Means of Egress

Exit doors should be visible, accessible and functional.

Exit doors should open without use of key or excessive effort.

Fire doors should be self closing.

 

Electrical

Cover plates must be installed on receptacles.

Circuits should be properly labeled.

There must be 30 inches of clear access in front of electrical panels.

No use of extension cords.

 

Egress Lighting

All means of egress should be illuminated properly.

Exit signs should be properly illuminated.

 

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Smoke alarms should properly operate.

Carbon monoxide detectors should operate properly.

Are you interested in learning more about what is involved in a building inspection? To see the full checklist, click here!

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

NYC Special Inspection Services

AM & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including mechanical, structural, fire, and life safety to name a few. For a full list of inspections provided, please see the following:

Photoluminescent Exit Path Markings

Structural Steel- Welding, Erection and Bolding

Structural Cold- Formed Steel

Concrete- Cast-in-place, Precast, Pre-stressed

Masonry

Soils- Site Preparation, Fill Placement and in-Place Density, investigations (Borings/ Test Pits)

Wall Panels, Curtain Walls and Veneers

Sprayed Fire-Resistant Materials

Exterior Insulation Finish Systems (EIFS)

Alternative Materials- OTCR Buildings Bulletin

Smoke Control Systems

Mechanical Systems

Fuel-Oil Storage and Fuel-Oil piping Systems

High-Pressure Steam Piping (Welding)

Fuel-Gas Piping (Welding)

Structural Safety/ Stability

Site Storm drainage Disposal and Detention System Installation

Sprinkler Systems

Standpipe Systems

Heating Systems

Chimneys

Firestop, Draftstop and Fireblock Systems

Aluminum Welding

Seismic Isolation Systems

Concrete Test Cylinders

Frame Inspection

Energy Code Compliance Inspections

Fire-Resistance Rate Construction

Public Assemble Emergency Lighting

Final

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

What Is NFPA 25?

NFPA 25 is the standard for the inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems. Compliance of this code helps maximize the integrity of the system and ensure a fast and effective response in a fire emergency. Are you interested in learning more about this code?



To view Frequently Asked Questions, Click here.

AM & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including mechanical, structural, fire, and life safety to name a few. For a full list of inspections provided, please click here.

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

Photo source: commons.wikimedia.org

Life Above The Iconic Grand Central Terminal

Alan Margolin and Associates is located atop Grand Central Terminal. This long standing city landmark is full of hidden gems and secrets. Are you interested in discovering the truth about Grand Central Station? Check out some of the following facts:

• Grand Central Terminal opened its doors on February 2, 1913 at midnight.
• It was the third station built at 42nd Street.
• 150,000 People walked through the doors on the first day.
• Now, 750,000 visitors pass daily.
• The celestial ceiling of the main concourse depicts the zodiac. The view is of the Mediterranean winter sky.
• There is a secret trap door in the kiosk below the clock that leads to a spiral staircase down to the lower level info booth.
• There is a terminal that connects to a secret underground platform at the Waldorf Astoria.
• A large American flag has hung in the main concourse since a few days after the attacks of 9/11.
• 93% of Grand Central Terminal commuters are college graduates.
• About 19,000 items turn up in the lost and found each year.
• More than half of those are reunited with their owners.

Want to learn more about Grand Central Terminal? Click here!

AM & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including mechanical, structural, fire, and life safety to name a few. For a full list of inspections provided, please click here.

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

photo source: en.wikiperdia.org

NYC Special Inspectors

The New York City Department of Buildings requires all construction projects undergo special inspections. These inspections are conducted to ensure all construction work is performed and completed in compliance with building codes and NYC Department of Building approved plans and specifications. All special inspections must be performed by an International Accreditation Service Special Inspection Agency.

IAS ensures that the organization operates at the highest level of ethical, legal, and technical standards. Alan Margolin & Associates is proud to be an IAS accredited agency, thus providing safe and reliable products and services. We are one of the first in the New York City metro area permitted to perform special inspections.

Alan Margolin & Associates has been the leading provider of engineering services to NYC and the surrounding boroughs for over fifty years. We take a professional approach to each project and have been privileged to work on some of the city's most iconic structures such as the Chrysler Building, Time Warner Center, the Empire State Building, and 30 Rockefeller Center- to name a few.


AM & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including mechanical, structural, fire, and life safety to name a few. For a full list of inspections provided, please click here.

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

Photo source: en.wikipedia.com

Apartments Rising In Manhattan

Everyone knows that finding a decent size apartment in New York City at an affordable price is hard to do.  According to ny.curbed.com, New Yorkers can expect to see more buildings on the rise. Architects are flocking to NYC to build what appears to be apartment buildings. Hotpads calculated 7,000 new apartments heading to Manhattan. One can only hope that increase in apartments will cause a decrease in monthly cost. (Hey, we can dream!) Are you interested in learning more? Click here!

Alan Margolin and Associates has been fortunate enough to service some of the city's most famous buildings and have witnessed the exquisiteness firsthand.

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project. AM & Associates has been the leading provider of engineering services to NYC and the surrounding boroughs for over fifty years. We take a professional approach to each project and have been privileged to work on some of the city's most iconic structures such as the Chrysler Building, Time Warner Center, the Empire State Building, and 30 Rockefeller Center- to name a few.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

Photo source: en.wikipedia.org

ATTENTION NYC! Join Us In Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions!

New York City has a goal of reducing greenhouse emission by 30% by the year 2030. The New York City Energy Conservation Code sets energy-efficient standards for new construction and alterations to existing buildings. These projects must comply with the energy conservation code.

Join the effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in NYC! AM & Associates will ensure buildings meet the growing demand for energy compliance. Are you looking for more information regarding energy compliance? Click here or visit our YouTube channel to learn more about the services Alan Margolin and Associates offers.



Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

AM & Associates Is LIVE On YouTube!

Alan Margolin and Associates is LIVE on YouTube! For over 30 years AM & Associates has provided inspection services to the New York area. IAS accredited, we are comprised of professional engineers, architects, certified inspection technicians, and top-tier administrators, all of whom are dedicated to the safety of life and property.

Alan Margolin and Associates offers a full range of inspections including special inspections, progress inspections, energy code inspections, in addition to a variety of many other inspection and surveying services. We are constantly expanding our service offerings to support clients' needs and to provide comprehensive support for the entire lifecycle of their buildings. Check out the following video for more information!





Looking for more information on Special Inspections? Contact Alan Margolin and Associates! Click here for more Frequently Asked Questions.

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

Special Inspection Frequently Asked Questions

Alan Margolin & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including architectural, mechanical, fire protection, structural, and civil inspections. Do you have questions regarding special inspections? These questions explain the basics of the NYC DOB’s Special Inspections program.

When did Special Inspections replace Controlled Inspections?

With the 2008 NYC Building Code, Special Inspections took the place of Controlled Inspections for all construction jobs whose applications were submitted on or after July 1, 2008.

Are Progress Inspections the same as Special Inspections?

Progress Inspections, while similar to Special Inspections, are different.  They are performed during the overall progress of work, while Special Inspections are more specialized and occur at specific points during construction.  Both Progress and Special Inspections confirm compliance with the NYCBC and construction documents, along with any relevant reference standards.

What is required from the Owner during the pre-design phase?

The owner is ultimately responsible for hiring the Special Inspection Agency, so the owner should be aware of the necessity to provide special inspections and reserve the funds to cover all inspection requirements.

What is required from the Design Applicant of Record (Architect or Engineer) during the pre-design phase?

The design applicant is responsible for determining the required list of inspection items that will be included on the TR1 submitted to the NYC DOB.

Looking for more information on Special Inspections? Contact Alan Margolin and Associates! Click here for more Frequently Asked Questions.

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.


Photo Source: elitedaily.com

Special Inspections Provided By AM & Associates

Alan Margolin & Associates has been the leading provider of engineering services to NYC and the surrounding boroughs for over fifty years. We take a professional approach to each project and have been privileged to work on some of the city's most iconic structures such as the Chrysler Building, Time Warner Center, the Empire State Building, and 30 Rockefeller Center- to name a few.


AM & Associates provides a full range of special inspection services including mechanical, structural, fire, and life safety to name a few. For a full list of inspections provided, please see the following:

Photoluminescent Exit Path Markings

Structural Steel- Welding, Erection and Bolding

Structural Cold- Formed Steel

Concrete- Cast-in-place, Precast, Pre-stressed

Masonry

Soils- Site Preparation, Fill Placement and in-Place Density, investigations (Borings/ Test Pits)

Wall Panels, Curtain Walls and Veneers

Sprayed Fire-Resistant Materials

Exterior Insulation Finish Systems (EIFS)

Alternative Materials- OTCR Buildings Bulletin

Smoke Control Systems

Mechanical Systems

Fuel-Oil Storage and Fuel-Oil piping Systems

High-Pressure Steam Piping (Welding)

Fuel-Gas Piping (Welding)

Structural Safety/ Stability

Site Storm drainage Disposal and Detention System Installation

Sprinkler Systems

Standpipe Systems

Heating Systems

Chimneys

Firestop, Draftstop and Fireblock Systems

Aluminum Welding

Seismic Isolation Systems

Concrete Test Cylinders

Frame Inspection

Energy Code Compliance Inspections

Fire-Resistance Rate Construction

Public Assemble Emergency Lighting

Final

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

AM & Associates is IAS Accredited!

Alan Margolin and Associates is accredited by the IAS, otherwise known as the International Accreditation Service, to perform special inspections. IAS is a subsidiary of the International Code Council and ensures that an organization operates in the highest level of ethical, legal, and technical standards. An accredited firm puts a client's mind at ease, knowing they will receive a safe and reliable product.

IAS provides rigorous criteria for compliance and continually oversights its accredited agencies; a standard they have been setting since 1975. Alan Margolin and Associates is happy to be one of the first agencies in the NYC area permitted to perform special inspections.

To learn more about the IAS, click here.

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project. AM & Associates has been the leading provider of engineering services to NYC and the surrounding boroughs for over fifty years. We take a professional approach to each project and have been privileged to work on some of the city's most iconic structures such as the Chrysler Building, Time Warner Center, the Empire State Building, and 30 Rockefeller Center- to name a few.

Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

Alan Margolin & Associates Is LIVE On Social Media!

Alan Margolin and Associates is LIVE on social media! Connecting with us has never been so easy. Keep up with the latest industry news and New York City happenings by liking us on Facebook, following us on Twitter, and connecting with us on Google+.

AM & Associates has been the leading provider of engineering services to NYC and the surrounding boroughs for over fifty years. We take a professional approach to each project and have been privileged to work on some of the city's most iconic structures such as the Chrysler Building, Time Warner Center, the Empire State Building, and 30 Rockefeller Center- to name a few.

AM & Associates offers comprehensive Special Inspection services including mechanical, structural, fire, and life safety among others. AM & Associates is also one of the few firms in the country accredited by IAS.

Located atop the iconic Grand Central Station in midtown Manhattan, AM & Associates is proud to deliver quick service to our clients and expeditors. Our staff of highly trained inspectors work to accommodate our clients schedules and diligently process and return the constant flow of forms required for each NYC building project.

For a complete list of Special inspection services offered, click here.