NH Department of Labor Updates Elevator Alteration & Suspension Procedures
If you own or manage a building in New Hampshire, there are new elevator inspection rules you need to know, especially when it comes to returning suspended or modernized elevators to service. Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s changing and how it could affect your operations.
Updated Rules for Elevator Inspection Alterations
New Process for Returning Suspended Elevators to Service
Implications for Building Owners & Managers
How to Stay Compliant Under New NH Elevator Rules
Updated Rules for Elevator Inspection Alterations
Until now, company-employed elevator state inspectors — meaning certified professionals who work for the elevator company — were allowed to inspect and submit reports on elevator alterations, such as major repairs and full modernizations.
But as of April 1, 2025, the New Hampshire Department of Labor (DOL) no longer accepts alteration inspection reports from company-employed inspectors. Instead, all alterations must be inspected and approved by an official inspector from the DOL through what’s known as an “acceptance inspection.”
Bottom line: The Department of Labor must conduct the inspection, and the elevator cannot be returned to service until the DOL acceptance inspection is completed and approved.
New Process for Returning Suspended Elevators to Service
Elevators can be taken out of service for a variety of reasons, including code violations, safety issues, major building renovations, fires, floods or other unforeseen events. Under updated guidelines, elevators in New Hampshire cannot be returned to service until two key steps are completed:
- All violations must be corrected.
- An inspection report must be submitted to and accepted by the New Hampshire Department of Labor. The report must be emailed to [email protected], and you must wait for official confirmation from the DOL that the report has been accepted before restarting the elevator.
It’s also important to note that the state reserves the right to conduct an on-site inspection at its discretion.
Implications for Building Owners & Managers
These new rules require that building owners and managers coordinate with the elevator company and any subcontractors to ensure all work is completed and ready for state inspection. Because the state inspector now plays a central role in the final approval process, there may be potential project delays since elevators cannot return to service until the state has completed and approved the inspection.
How to Stay Compliant Under New NH Elevator Rules
As a building owner or manager, there are key steps you can take to ensure you stay compliant with New Hampshire’s updated elevator regulations. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Plan ahead: Work closely with your elevator service provider to proactively schedule any necessary work, including repairs, pretests, and inspections. Getting a head start can help avoid potential delays, especially since inspections now require state oversight and acceptance.
- Consider modernizations: Older elevators may need updates or modernizations to meet current safety standards or comply with regulations. Having your elevator modernized now can prevent longer downtime in the future.
- Work with a trusted partner: Stanley Elevator has extensive experience navigating code changes and regulatory requirements. Our team can help you assess your current systems, plan necessary updates and ensure your elevators remain compliant with New Hampshire’s latest inspection standards. Having elevator company experts who understand what state inspectors look for can make all the difference in a smooth inspection process.
Need Help Navigating the Updated Elevator Rules?
If you have any questions about these regulatory changes, or if you’re seeking a trusted partner to complete necessary modernizations promptly, reach out to us. With Stanley Elevator, you’ll get expert guidance and dependable support every step of the way.