
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about masonry, brick pointing, and NYC building compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for sidewalk & facade repairs in NYC?
Property owners are responsible for maintaining sidewalks and building facades in NYC. Under Local Law 11 (FISP), buildings taller than 6 stories must undergo periodic facade inspections and complete required repairs.
What is Local Law 11 (FISP)?
Local Law 11, also known as the Facade Inspection & Safety Program (FISP), requires buildings over 6 stories in NYC to have their facades inspected every 5 years by a licensed engineer. Non-compliance can result in significant fines.
How much does brick pointing cost in NYC?
Brick pointing costs in NYC typically range from $8 to $25 per square foot, depending on building height, accessibility, mortar type, and extent of damage. We offer free estimates for accurate pricing.
How long does brick pointing take?
Most residential brick pointing jobs are completed in 1-3 days. Larger commercial projects may take 1-2 weeks depending on the scope of work.
Do I need permits for masonry work in NYC?
Yes, most exterior masonry work in NYC requires DOB permits and potentially sidewalk shed installation. We handle all permitting and compliance requirements for you.
What's the difference between pointing and tuckpointing?
Pointing (repointing) replaces deteriorated mortar with a single matching color. Tuckpointing uses two mortar colors to create the appearance of very fine, precise joints — it's a premium aesthetic technique that also provides structural benefits.
How do I know if my building needs masonry repair?
Signs include cracking mortar joints, loose or spalling bricks, white staining (efflorescence), water stains on interior walls, bulging walls, and visible gaps between bricks.
Do you work on historic or landmark buildings?
Yes, we have extensive experience with historic and landmark buildings. We follow Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) guidelines and use historically appropriate materials and techniques.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes, NYC Contracting Corp. is fully licensed and insured. We carry general liability insurance, workers' compensation, and all required NYC contractor licenses.
Do you offer free estimates?
Yes! We provide free, no-obligation estimates for all masonry projects. Contact us by phone or through our website form to schedule your estimate.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate on your masonry project.
- Free, no-obligation estimate for every project
- Fully licensed & insured masonry crews
- Local Law 11 (FISP) permits & compliance handled for you
- Over a decade of masonry work across all 5 NYC boroughs
