What is likely happening
Grinding, thumping, or vibration often comes from guide rollers or shoes, sheaves, ropes, or motor and bearing wear.
What you can safely check
- Note where in the hoistway the noise happens and whether it is going up or down.
What an inspector will look at
- Guides and rails
- Machine, motor and bearings
- Ropes and sheaves
Does this affect compliance?
Worn components found at inspection are often cited as items to correct.
When it becomes urgent
Urgent if noise is sudden and loud, or comes with jerking stops.
We can help with this
Elevator and conveyance inspection is something Insparisk does nationwide. To see the local rules for your building, open this in the interactive Problem Solver.
Request elevator and conveyance inspectionTalk to an advisorGeneral guidance only, not a substitute for a licensed inspection or emergency services. For any gas odor, carbon monoxide alarm, fire, or trapped occupant, call 911 first.