Elevator Inspection Requirements and Certification

Updated October 2026 · 5 minutes

Elevator safety standards are primarily governed by the ASME A17.1/CSA B44 code, which serves as the foundation for inspection, testing, and maintenance requirements across most North American jurisdictions.

For property managers and landlords, elevator inspection requirements represent a critical component of building safety and legal compliance. Because elevators are high-risk mechanical systems, they are subject to rigorous oversight that goes beyond standard property maintenance. Failing to keep up with these inspections can lead to operational shutdowns, significant fines, and increased liability.

Understanding the Regulatory Framework

Most elevator safety regulations in North America are based on the ASME A17.1/CSA B44 Safety Code for Elevators and Escalators. While this code provides the national standard, it is important to remember that local jurisdictions—such as cities and states—often adopt these standards with specific amendments. You must verify the exact requirements for your property's location, as local building departments may mandate more frequent inspections or additional testing protocols.

Periodic Inspections and Testing

Elevator compliance is not a one-time event; it is a continuous cycle of periodic inspections and tests. These typically include annual safety inspections to ensure that all mechanical and electrical components are functioning correctly. Additionally, specific load testing is often required at set intervals to verify that the elevator can safely handle its rated capacity. Keeping a detailed record of these inspections is essential for your property compliance audit checklist.

The Role of ASME A17.2

While ASME A17.1 sets the safety requirements, ASME A17.2 serves as the official guide for the inspection of elevators, escalators, and moving walks. This document provides the procedures that inspectors use to verify compliance. Familiarizing yourself with these procedures can help you prepare for upcoming inspections and ensure that your maintenance team is addressing the same items that an official inspector will review.

Managing Compliance Across a Portfolio

Managing elevator compliance across multiple properties requires a proactive approach. Because inspection deadlines vary by jurisdiction and equipment type, relying on manual tracking or spreadsheets often leads to missed dates. Integrating these deadlines into a centralized property compliance calendar ensures that you are alerted well in advance of any upcoming inspection or certification expiration, allowing you to schedule certified inspectors without disrupting building operations.

Frequently asked questions

How often do elevators need to be inspected?

While annual inspections are standard in many jurisdictions, the exact frequency is determined by local building codes and the specific type of conveyance. Always check with your local building department for the mandated schedule in your area.

Who is responsible for scheduling elevator inspections?

The building owner or the designated property manager is responsible for ensuring that all required inspections are performed by a licensed, authorized inspector within the mandated timeframe.

What happens if an elevator fails an inspection?

If an elevator fails inspection, the inspector will typically issue a violation notice. You must complete the necessary repairs and, in many cases, schedule a re-inspection to verify that the equipment meets safety standards before it can be returned to service.

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