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.

Costs vary by location, number of units, and scope. Contact VDA for a quote today.

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 →]