San Francisco Board proposes facade inspection mandate for high-rise buildings

In a recent meeting of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, officials discussed a significant amendment to the city's building code aimed at enhancing safety standards for high-rise buildings. The proposed ordinance, identified as file number 230,373, seeks to require facade inspection reports for buildings constructed after 1998 that are 15 stories or taller. This move comes in response to recent incidents of window failures during storms, raising concerns about the structural integrity of these buildings.

Currently, the existing building code mandates that owners of buildings five stories or taller submit inspection reports. However, those built after 1998 are exempt from this requirement. The new legislation aims to narrow this exemption, ensuring that buildings over 14 stories must undergo initial facade inspections by November 1, 2023, or within six months of notification from the Department of Building Inspection (DBI).

The intent behind this amendment is to address safety issues highlighted by recent weather events, which have exposed vulnerabilities in high-rise facades. Carl Neceta, the legislative affairs manager, emphasized the importance of these inspections in safeguarding public safety.

The Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) reviewed the ordinance and recommended that DBI commission a study to investigate the recent window failures. This study would focus on potential design flaws in glazing attachment methods and wind load calculations. The CAC suggested that the findings should inform future facade inspection requirements, particularly concerning glazing systems, which have been identified as a potential risk factor.

In response to public comments, concerns were raised about the arbitrary nature of the 15-story threshold, with some arguing that shorter buildings could also pose safety risks due to similar facade issues. One speaker highlighted the use of imported building materials that may not comply with U.S. standards, suggesting that the legislation should address these broader safety concerns.

DBI staff recommended approval of the ordinance, contingent upon the completion of the CAC's proposed study. The timeline for this study is expected to be expedited due to the mayor's emergency declaration, with results anticipated by the end of August. This would allow the city to implement necessary facade inspection criteria before the next rainy season.

As the city moves forward with this legislation, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of its high-rise buildings and addressing the potential risks posed by recent weather-related incidents. The anticipated study and subsequent inspections could play a crucial role in preventing future facade failures and enhancing public safety in San Francisco.