DOB Elevator - CAT 5 Inspections

What is a CAT 5 Inspection? 

Performed with rated load and speed every 5 years from the date of installation; for example, if a Category 5 report was filed in December 2019, it would be due again at the end of December 2024. Category 5 tests are only required for specific devices - speak with your consultant to confirm what you’ll need to file going forward. 

The performing agency must notify the DOB 5 days in advance of tests. Additionally, the category test report no loner requires the signature of the witnessing agency inspector (but does require the witnessing agency director’s signature).

• Reports must now be submitted to the DOB within 21 days after the test date.
• All defects outlined in the report must be corrected within 90 days
  • Owners may request up to two 45-day extensions.
• Affirmations of Correction must be submitted within 14 days of the date corrections were made.

How do I file? 

• File on DOB NOW: Safety or File an ELV3 Form
• The Filing Fee is $40 per Device 
  • Late Filing - $250.00 per month 

What if I don’t File a CAT 5 Inspection? What is an EVCAT 5 Violation? 

An EVCAT5 will be issued for failure to file Category 5 annual inspection and a penalty of $5000 

But I did file a CAT 5 inspection, can I challenge this EVCAT5 violation? 

To challenge an EVCAT5, provide proof of the timely, filed, and complete Category 5 test along with a copy of the canceled check for the inspection fee to the Elevator Division within 30 days of issuance of the violation. Alternatively, you can provide proof to the DOB that the device in question does not require the Category 5 load-bearing test. 

Please Note: While CAT 5 reports may be submitted up to one year late, the actual inspection date must be by the last day of the month in which the five-year anniversary occurs or will be considered a Failure to File. 

As of September 17, 2018, all new inspection/test reports and notifications for elevators and other related devices must be submitted online through DOB NOW: Safety. This applies to: 

• Elevator Inspection/Test Reports (ELV3) for Category 1, Category 3, and Category 5 inspections.

How can I review my elevator devices and their current state of compliance?

On the Elevator Record page you'll find Elevator Record Cards for each device associated with your property assignments.



Red X: Overdue CAT5, Rejected/Failed CAT5 submission
Yellow Checkmark: Upcoming CAT5 inspection due
Green Checkmark: A CAT5 was filed and accepted for the previous and current year
N/A: A CAT5 inspection is not required