Why Passing an Elevator Inspection Doesn’t Mean Your Equipment Is in Good Shape
When an elevator passes a code-required inspection, it’s easy for building owners and managers to assume that everything is functioning perfectly. However, passing an inspection only means the equipment meets the minimum safety and operational requirements that were in place at the time of its initial installation. It does not guarantee optimal performance, long-term reliability, or sound mechanical condition.
At KDA Elevator Consultants, we often see elevators that pass inspections but still show signs of wear, poor maintenance, or impending failure. Here’s why a passing grade isn’t the full story—and how a professional assessment can uncover the hidden truth.
Understanding the Scope of Code Inspections
State or local elevator inspections are designed to ensure that equipment complies with the safety codes in effect. These inspections are typically limited in scope and duration, focusing on:
- Door operation and interlocks
- Emergency communication systems
- Brake and governor functionality
- Safety circuits and overspeed protection
While these checks are critical, they only address a narrow slice of what makes an elevator truly reliable and efficient.
What Inspections Often Miss
1. Wear and Tear on Major Components Code inspections don’t always assess the condition of hoist ropes, sheaves, motor bearings, and drive systems in detail. These components can wear out over time and lead to costly failures if not proactively monitored.
2. Maintenance Shortcomings If your elevator maintenance contractor is cutting corners, it’s unlikely a code inspector will detect it. Dirty pits, poor lubrication, and misaligned components might still go unnoticed during a basic inspection.
3. Performance Degradation Is your elevator running slower than it used to? Does it mislevel occasionally or vibrate during travel? These performance issues might not fail an inspection, but they indicate that your equipment is not operating at peak performance.
4. Code Compliance Updates Inspections are based on the current code enforced in your jurisdiction in conjunction with the code that was in effect at the time of the elevators installation, but they don’t always account for upcoming regulatory changes. That means your elevator might be “compliant today” but still face mandatory upgrades soon.
How KDA Elevator Consultants Can Help
A code inspection is not the same as a comprehensive assessment. At KDA Elevator Consultants, we offer deep-dive evaluations that go far beyond what a regulatory inspection covers:
- Thorough Mechanical and Electrical Inspections
- Maintenance Quality Reviews
- Performance Benchmarking and Ride Quality Analysis
- Capital Planning and Lifecycle Forecasting
- Code Compliance Reviews Including Future Requirements
We work with property managers, owners, and facility teams to uncover hidden risks, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure elevators perform reliably—not just legally.
Conclusion: Don’t Let a Pass Create a False Sense of Security
Just because your elevator passed its inspection doesn’t mean everything is okay. To truly understand the condition of your vertical transportation system, you need a trusted advisor who looks deeper.
KDA Elevator Consultants is here to ensure your elevators are not only safe and code-compliant, but also efficient, reliable, and properly maintained for the long term.
Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive elevator assessment and get the full picture of your equipment’s health.