RAND DPC

RAND Engineering & Architecture is a full-service engineering and architectural firm based in NYC. We've been making buildings better since 1987.

[RAND DPC @randpc]

What does it really take to convert an office building into housing?

RAND’s Peter Varsalona joined The Brian Lehrer Show to discuss office-to-residential conversions and the structural questions raised by the former Pfizer headquarters.

Listen: https://t.co/BhByvfhnkB

[RAND DPC @randpc]

RAND is not involved in the redevelopment project or emergency response at 235 East 42nd Street, but we are following the situation closely along with the broader engineering community. (3/3)

[RAND DPC @randpc]

RAND Principal and Team Leader Eugene Gurevich, PE, AIA, joined CNN and NewsNation to provide structural engineering perspective on the ongoing emergency at the former Pfizer headquarters, an office-to-residential conversion project. (1/3)

[RAND DPC @randpc]

City officials have said the building is stable for now, but the cause has not yet been determined. As with any significant structural incident, stabilization, monitoring, and careful forensic investigation should come before conclusions. (2/3)

[RAND DPC @randpc]

City officials have said the building is stable for now, but the cause has not yet been determined. As with any significant structural incident, stabilization, monitoring, and careful forensic investigation should come before conclusions. (2/3)

[RAND DPC @randpc]

DOB’s No-Penalty Inspection Program is open through 7/10.

Eligible owners can request a free visual inspection for retaining walls, facades < 6 stories, sidewalk vaults, boilers, and gas piping systems.

RAND helps owners understand what comes next.

https://t.co/7fieXXCCVp

[RAND DPC @randpc]

When owners and boards are planning facade repairs, water infiltration concerns should be part of the conversation early.

RAND was featured in @habitatmag on how leak history can shape FISP repair scope, budget, and long-term planning.

Read more: https://t.co/fwmz4lRE5D

[RAND DPC @randpc]

After a completed capital improvement project, one co-op was approved for more than $500K in J-51 tax benefits over 8 years.

RAND is proud to recognize Sr. Project Associate Yessica Marinez for her work supporting the application process with professionalism and persistence.

[RAND DPC @randpc]

Less than two weeks remain until June 30 for 2026 LL97 reporting.

June 30 is the end of the grace period and the BEAM extension deadline. Approved extensions may move the report deadline to Aug. 29.

What should your building do next?

https://t.co/4ZEQEJXet9

#LocalLaw97

[RAND DPC @randpc]

For NYC buildings that haven’t completed their Local Law 97 filing, June 30 is the next important date.

DOB is accepting annual emissions reports through June 30, 2026. Extension requests in BEAM are also due that day.

Learn more: https://t.co/Iem25dSmHZ

[RAND DPC @randpc]

Getting hands-on with glass and steel during a FISP inspection of a midtown 47-story Class A commercial tower.

With FISP Cycle 10 underway, owners and managers should be confirming filing windows, planning access, and identifying facade conditions early.

https://t.co/RtmG4Ih2Ck

[RAND DPC @randpc]

Can drones be used for FISP inspections in NYC?

Yes, as a supplemental tool. Drones can support facade evaluation, documentation, and access planning, especially on buildings with setbacks, roof structures, or areas difficult to evaluate from the ground.
https://t.co/gU6BmSKSNB

[RAND DPC @randpc]

BTS: A drone survey from the ground up.

For a recent 30+ story facade evaluation in Brooklyn, RAND’s team coordinated pre-flight checks, survey areas, and flight approach before capturing roof-level and facade conditions from the air.

Learn more: https://t.co/SmJ3jRDh9c

[RAND DPC @randpc]

Flatiron apartment renovation by Wendell Burnette Architects featured in Residential Design. RAND served as MEP engineer, supporting the transformation of a former factory loft into a warm, carefully considered home.

A great team to work with. Read more: https://t.co/yXvbOlDqpZ

[RAND DPC @randpc]

Today is the extended deadline for Local Law 87 for the 2025 filing year.

For covered buildings with tax block numbers ending in 5, the EER is due today, March 31, 2026. This extension applies to the 2025 filing year only.

https://t.co/2mseXhb4PW

[RAND DPC @randpc]

NYC sidewalk shed renewals are facing tighter DOB rules. The proposed changes point to more scrutiny around renewals, documentation, and progress on the underlying work. If your building has an active shed, now is a good time to review status, timelines, and supporting records.

[RAND DPC @randpc]

May 1 is the deadline for NYC benchmarking reports. Covered buildings over 25K SF must file annually under Local Law 84. Building Energy Efficiency Rating labels must also be posted near each public entrance. Need help? [email protected] | 212-675-8844 | https://t.co/zZtjXsNp2m

[RAND DPC @randpc]

Fort Lee Ordinance 2025-17: existing parking structures must complete an initial assessment by Dec. 31, 2026.

Read our fact sheet on requirements for compliance: who must comply, deadlines, NJ PE, Safe/SREM/Unsafe classifications, and follow-up): https://t.co/bxsd5NrG32

[RAND DPC @randpc]

NYC: annual parapet inspections are required each year.

Cold temps and snow/ice can add freeze-thaw stress at roof edges. Inspections may review copings, parapet walls, flashings, loose masonry, and signs of water infiltration.
Schedule: https://t.co/dnLuiYuTmI

[RAND DPC @randpc]

When century-old gas pipes fail, costs can spiral fast. In Habitat Magazine’s Problem Solved podcast, RAND Principal Peter Varsalona shares how a 1912 NYC co-op avoided a $500K+ gas overhaul, and saved $300K through a targeted testing strategy.

Listen: https://t.co/gzr8xqJZNs