Keep your vertical transportation equipment compliant and safe with Category 1 and Category 5 inspections from QEI-certified inspectors. We handle scheduling, inspections, and filings with your local authority.
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Category 1 and Category 5 are ASME A17.1 test categories used in many jurisdictions. Your AHJ sets the exact schedule. We handle both routine and comprehensive inspections.
Periodic safety test, typically performed annually. Our QEI inspectors conduct thorough visual and operational tests to ensure safe operation.
Comprehensive inspection including witness testing of safety systems. Typically required every five years, in addition to Category 1 tests.
Traction and hydraulic elevators in residential and commercial buildings
Heavy-duty elevators for goods transport and industrial use
Moving stairways in commercial, retail, and transit facilities
Horizontal conveyances in airports and large facilities
Small freight elevators for food service and materials
ADA accessibility lifts and platform elevators
Construction and industrial material handling equipment
Private residence elevators and home lifts
Not sure how the schedule works? See our guide on how often elevators need to be inspected, including the difference between Category 1 and Category 5 testing.
In New York City, DOB requires annual Category 1 and five-year Category 5 tests, filed with DOB by an inspection agency independent of your maintenance company. See NYC elevator requirements.
| Frequency | Typically annual |
| Filing Deadline | Set by your AHJ |
| Late Filing Penalty | Varies by jurisdiction |
| Inspector Requirement | QEI Certified |
| Regulating Body | State or local AHJ |
| Frequency | Typically every 5 years |
| Witness Testing | Required; witness rules vary |
| Scheduling | Coordinated with your AHJ |
| Documentation | Comprehensive test reports |
| Code Standard | ASME A17.1 |
Book online or call us. We coordinate with your building staff and maintenance company.
Our QEI inspector conducts thorough testing per ASME A17.1 standards.
Receive detailed inspection report within 24 hours via your Factor portal.
Where filing is required, we file the documentation with your AHJ on your behalf.
Get a free quote in 24 hours. We handle Cat 1, Cat 5, and all conveyance inspections.
Compare Your Options
Elevator inspections are one of the few compliance lines where the inspector's independence from the maintenance contractor can be a legal requirement: New York City, for example, requires it. These comparisons walk through that rule plus how to decide between a specialist and a multi-service engineering firm.
In New York City, DOB explicitly requires that the inspection agency be independent of the elevator maintenance contractor. Here is why, and how the principle extends to other compliance lines.
Should your elevator inspection go to a specialist or to a full-service engineering firm? A decision tree by scope type.