It refers to systems like elevators, escalators, and lifts that move people or goods between building levels.

An elevator consultant provides independent expertise to evaluate, maintain, and modernize vertical transportation systems. We work exclusively for building owners and managers. We do not sell equipment, so you get unbiased recommendations that protect your investment.

Unlike service providers, consultants are vendor-neutral. Our role is to represent the owner’s interests, not sell equipment or repairs.

Common reasons include frequent breakdowns, rising maintenance costs, upcoming modernization projects, code issues, or new property acquisitions.

Depends on building height, occupancy, and local codes.

Vertical transportation consulting provides independent expertise on elevators, escalators, and lifts. Unlike maintenance contractors, consultants evaluate equipment, plan modernization, and manage bids without selling parts or service. The goal is unbiased recommendations that improve safety, compliance, and lifecycle performance.

A typical evaluation covers ride quality, safety devices, code compliance, and maintenance history. You’ll receive a detailed report with findings, risk assessment, and budget recommendations for repairs or modernization.

Yes. In most U.S. jurisdictions, all elevators, escalators, moving walks, wheelchair lifts, and dumbwaiters must be inspected by a QEI-certified inspector to maintain a valid certificate of operation and ensure passenger safety.

Yes. Most states require periodic inspections by a Qualified Elevator Inspector (QEI) with ASME QEI-1 certification to comply with safety codes and regulations.

A QEI-Certified Elevator Inspection is performed by an inspector certified under the ASME QEI-1 Standard, ensuring your equipment meets all safety and regulatory requirements.

Yes. Most jurisdictions require inspections for all types of vertical transportation equipment, including residential units and accessibility lifts.

Inspection frequency varies by state, but annual inspections are most common. VDA can help you determine your local requirements.

Ask for proof of the inspector’s current ASME QEI-1 certification and confirm their credentials with your local authority if needed.

Yes. All VDA inspectors are QEI-certified and meet the highest industry standards for elevator and escalator inspections.

Physical inspections are required for compliance, but VDA offers digital reporting, remote monitoring, and virtual pre-inspection consultations to streamline the process.

Contact VDA or your local elevator service provider to arrange an inspection at a convenient time.

Emergency inspections are needed after incidents, accidents, or major repairs. VDA can dispatch certified inspectors quickly to restore compliance.

Yes. Significant modernization or repairs typically require a re-inspection to verify compliance and update your certificate of operation.

A full-load test applies the elevator’s rated load to verify the performance of safety components, as required by the ASME A17.1 Safety Code.

No. Some AHJs allow reviewing logs instead of witnessing tests.

The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), typically a state or local elevator safety division, issues the certificate after all required inspections are passed.

Retain inspection reports and certificates for at least five years, or as required by your local authority.

Review the report, contact your elevator service provider for repairs, schedule a re-inspection, and submit documentation to the AHJ to clear the violation. Need help managing this process? Use VDA’s CCM/Verify service to track corrections, schedule inspections, and ensure compliance without the hassle. [Learn more about CCM/Verify →]

ASME codes include specific requirements: A17.1 Section 5.3 for residential elevators and A18.1 for accessibility lifts. AHJ rules vary, but underlying ASME requirements apply everywhere.

Ask for: a current QEI‑1 certification, any AHJ‑required licenses, and verification through AHJ database (if applicable).

Yes. All VDA inspectors hold QEI certification and/or any additional AHJ‑required licensing. They also complete ongoing Continuing Education to ensure they are up to date on all licensing requirements.

Contact VDA or your elevator service provider.

After incidents, accidents, or major repairs. VDA can quickly assist in such scenarios.

Yes. Significant modernization or repairs typically require an inspection to verify compliance. It varies per AHJ who is responsible for performing this type of inspection after modernization or repair. Be sure to discuss this with the service provider performing the work, local AHJ, or VDA can also assist sharing this information.

A full load test applies the elevator’s rated load to confirm that key safety components perform properly, as required by the ASME A17.1 Safety Code. Some equipment types—such as roped hydraulic elevators—may also require full load testing depending on local AHJ rules. Check with your Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for specific requirements. VDA can help you determine what applies to your equipment.

Costs vary by location, number of units, and scope. VDA offers customized quotes and bundled service plans to fit your needs.

The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), typically a state or local elevator safety division, issues the certificate after all required inspections are passed.

Retain inspection reports and certificates for at least seven years, or as required by your local authority.

Review the report, contact the correct vendor to make repairs as it could be your elevator service provider, phone provider, electrician, or even a building engineer/handyman depending on what was found. After repair, the AHJ determines the next steps necessary to earn compliancy. VDA can help you determine your local requirements.

– Inoperable emergency communication
– Emergency lights/alarms not functioning
– Overdue fire extinguisher service
– Missing signage
– Overdue tests
– Machine room violations
– Dirty pits

In certain AHJ’s, the building owner may request a variance if you can demonstrate hardship and propose an alternative compliance method. VDA can assist with the process.

Check emergency phones, lighting, signage, machine room conditions, and maintenance logs.

Routine inspections reduce liability and may lower insurance premiums by demonstrating proactive safety management.

A variance allows flexibility from certain code requirements if you demonstrate hardship and propose an alternative compliance method.

Yes. Modernization and inspection practices help support sustainability goals.

Maintenance is performed by your elevator company; inspections are performed independently by licensed or QEI‑certified inspectors.

No. Digital, cellular, and VoIP options are accepted if they meet ASME A17.1. Owners should confirm cellular reliability in enclosed hoistways.

Yes. These follow ASME A17.1 Section 5.2.

They follow ASME A18.1. Frequency varies by AHJ.

Possible fines, certificate revocation, forced shutdowns, and insurance issues.

Maintenance records, emergency phone info, fire recall documentation, access procedures, previous reports, variances.

No. It assists maintenance but does not replace code‑required inspections.

Yes. Safe, legal, unobstructed access is required.