Elevator Maintenance and Inspection Requirements for Building Owners

Elevator Maintenance and Inspection Requirements

Updated November 6, 2026

How Often Do Elevators Need to Be Inspected?

Most U.S. jurisdictions follow ASME A17.1, which calls for periodic safety tests, commonly yearly (Category 1) and every five years (Category 5), plus routine maintenance under a written maintenance control program. Your state or city elevator authority sets the actual inspection schedule and permits, so confirm its rules and keep your certificate current.

Updated November 6, 2026 · Source: ASME A17.1 summary; your state or local elevator authority sets the rules.

Rules are set by state and city, and a few places have their own code. Start by finding your local elevator authority.

Contract Types

Full maintenance: covers most parts and labor, at a higher monthly price.
Parts, oil and grease (POG): lower monthly price, but you pay for many repairs.

What to Check in the Contract

Auto-renewal dates and cancellation notice
Whether annual and five-year tests are included
Response time for entrapments and shutdowns, and after-hours rates
Who owns the control software and its diagnostic tools
Access to the maintenance control program and records

Owner Duties

Keep the operating permit current and displayed where required.
Keep the machine room locked and free of storage.
Test the in-car phone.
Log every shutdown; patterns help you challenge poor service.

Find elevator service companies and use the questions to ask.

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