How to Prepare for (and Pass) the All-Important Elevator Inspection

Just like an automobile diagnostic test, an elevator inspection provides building owners with the information and opportunity to make critical decisions about repairs, upgrades or full equipment replacement.

But while some vehicle owners may decide to postpone a trip to the auto shop, putting off an elevator inspection is not an option. State laws and building codes require annual elevator inspections to ensure all components of the elevator – cab, door equipment, maintenance room, etc. are in good working order. Failing to maintain an elevator can lead to financial and liability issues, inconvenience tenants or worse – cause an accident.

Regular elevator inspections ensure you always follow the highest levels of safety precautions. This will also help you lower repair costs and minimize the time an elevator needs to be taken out of service.

Before the Inspection

You can expect to be notified by your state about the need for an elevator inspection. Then it’s up to you to schedule the date of inspection with a state inspector or licensed third-party agent and determine what, if any, maintenance needs to be performed in advance.

To keep repair costs under control, many building owners make periodic elevator assessments a part of their building’s preventative maintenance programs. Before the elevator inspection, you’ll want to review all documentation to make sure you’re up to date on any scheduled repairs – this is where your elevator service provider can help.

There are certain things you can check yourself, which will help you stay one step ahead and flag up any potential issues before they cause costly problems.

Download your Simple Elevator Health Checklist

A Maintenance Control Program (MCP), is a formal, comprehensive checklist that ensures all the critical elevator components are routinely examined. Some common items that should appear on this checklist include:

• Checking door panels and lights inside and outside the elevator cab for damage
• Making sure the fire testing log is up to date and in the machine room
• Inspecting cables, brakes and phone/alarm systems to ensure proper function/condition

Inspection Day

On the day that your state inspector or licensed third-party agent is expected to perform the inspection, you will also want to have your elevator service technician on hand. That way, you can address any minor problems like broken lights or a faulty alarm bell immediately onsite, if needed.

While many original equipment manufacturers will try to push the use of their technicians, non-proprietary elevator companies employ technicians with the experience and qualifications needed to survey all aspects of your equipment and can offer just as good or better service, often at lower cost.

Post-Inspection and Follow-Up

Your state will inform you about the results of your inspection with a receipt of a certificate and list of deficiencies.

As a building owner, you will then have 30-60 days to complete any necessary repairs. If you fail the inspection, don’t wait until the 11^th hour to find someone who can help fix all the violations. Not correcting the deficiencies on time could cause the state to shut down your elevators, and incur significant financial penalties for you in the process.

This is why it is imperative that building owners have a reliable elevator service provider who can respond and perform the work quickly.

Get In Touch with Us!

Reach out to our friendly team with any questions or to discuss how we can work with you and your inspector to ensure your equipment is evaluated and repaired on schedule, for timely, affordable solutions.