Division of Hotels and Restaurants

Emergency Power Requirements FAQ

All information on this page is current and was last reviewed by the division on November 18, 2008.

1. Q: Does this law apply to all buildings with a public elevator?

A: No. This law only applies to buildings that are multi-family dwellings, including condominiums, and are at least 75 feet high.

2. Q: I manage a building that meets those specifications. Am I responsible for making sure the building complies with this law?

A: The law places the responsibility on “any person, firm, or corporation that owns, manages, or operates” the specified type of building. As the manager of the building you will need to make sure you comply with this law. However, the building owner or company you work for, if any, will also be responsible.

3. Q: Who do I contact to find out if I have to provide alternate power to my elevator?

A: Your local building inspection agency will determine if your building needs to comply with this law.

4. Q: If my building requires alternate power, do I have to purchase and install a generator?

A: No. However, you must, at a minimum, pre-wire your elevator to accept a generator and enter into a contract with a service provider for a generator and fuel source to be supplied to your building.

5. Q: When is the deadline to install a generator or pre-wire my building?

A: You must submit engineering plans to your local building inspection agency by December 31, 2006. Once they verify that you are in full compliance with the law you will have until December 31, 2007, to notify your local emergency management agency of this compliance.

6. Q: Who notifies my local emergency management agency that my building complies with this law?

A: Contact your local building inspection agency to find out who notifies your local emergency management agency.

7. Q: Who can pre-wire my elevator or install my generator?

A: All electrical connections and generator installations must be performed by a licensed electrician or other authorized and properly licensed person.

8. Q: Where can I get a contract for a generator and fuel source?

A: Private businesses are able to provide these services. Your local building inspection or emergency management agency can provide you with a list of these types of businesses.

9. Q: Under the provisions of this law, how long does the service provider have to deliver the generator and fuel once I have requested it?

A: Your contract must state the generator and fuel source will be supplied within 24 hours of your request. Contact your local government or emergency management agency for further guidance.

10. Q: Will compliance with this law be verified annually?

A: Yes, a certified elevator inspector will verify compliance with this law as part of your required annual inspection.

Specific verifications performed in the annual inspection will include: ensuring installed generators are in working order; current inspection records are being properly posted; generator keys are present; pre-wiring and switching capabilities are present; and a current contract with a generator and fuel source provider is in place.

11. Q: How do I check if my current generator meets the requirements of this law?

A: Please contact your local building inspection agency for assistance in determining your specific needs.

12. Q: Who enforces the new law?

A: Local building inspection and emergency management agencies will be responsible for ensuring that buildings comply with the requirements of this law and building owners, managers, or operators supply the required documentation. Certified elevator inspectors and the Bureau of Elevator Safety will, through annual elevator inspections, gather compliance information for use by the local authorities.