What You Need to Know About Elevator Inspections in Various States

We specialize in code compliant third-party test witnessing that is required by jurisdictions in Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington DC. Our team has gathered everything you need to know about each state’s requirements, as well as the latest updates on vertical transportation system inspections.

Virginia

The State of Virginia requires a third-party qualified elevator inspector (QEI) to witness the annual equipment testing performed by your maintenance company. We provide this service with a routine inspection at a coordinated appointment with your maintenance company.

Various Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) in Virginia require a semi-annual routine inspection. Contact us for your AHJ’s requirements.

Please note that most certificates are generated by the AHJ and certificate costs are generally not included in our inspection fees.

Resources

Elevator in Prince William County?
Follow this link for their program's details.

A Message from the City of Winchester:

"As of April 1, 2025, the OPENGOV Permitting and Licensing platform must be used for new permit requests. Applicants can access the online platform at https://winchesterva.portal.opengov.com/ and create an account to apply for permits. Community Development applications are organized under the "Building and Inspections" and "Planning and Zoning" sections. We sincerely appreciate your patience and cooperation as we transition to this more efficient system and thank you for your understanding.

Elevator Certificates of Compliance must be applied for through the OpenGov portal by the responsible party. The Annual Elevator Certification application is at: https://winchesterva.portal.opengov.com/categories/1082/record-types/6489 You must have a copy of the latest inspection report to upload as an attachment.

Starting this year, if I have not received a response to my communications to property owners, I have to give elevators that are expired to Code Enforcement to start Property Maintenance cases. Expired elevators can be shut down until they are in compliance.

Thank you!"

Carolyn Barrett Administrative Assistant II Planning, Zoning & Inspections

15 N. Cameron Street, 3^rd Floor Winchester, VA 22601

540-667-2370

Portal Tips from CEIS:

Tip 1: Fillable fields follow the inspection report's fields. If it is blank, skip it!
Tip 2: The "DPOR Number" is the elevator mechanic's license number next to the name on the test report.
Tip 3: Use the inspector's name and license and our company info from the form to complete the "Contractor" field.
Tip 4: Type in the elevator mechanic's name and the inspector's name when asked for a "signature".
Tip 5: Call our office if you need more help!

West Virginia

Our team provides third-party annual test witnessing and inspection services during a coordinated appointment with your elevator maintenance company. Reports are submitted to the AHJ by our inspector.

The elevator certificate is issued by the West Virginia Division of Labor and not our office. Please pay your West Virginia Division of Labor (WVDoL) invoice for a prompt delivery of your certificate. Please note that certificate fees are not included in our invoice for the inspection.

Resources

WV Division of Labor - Safety Section

1900 Kanawha Blvd. East
State Capitol Complex
Building 3, Room 200
Charleston, WV 25305

(304) 380-9328

(304) 558-2415

District of Columbia

The DC Department of Buildings (DOB) requires building owners to arrange code-compliant inspections with their third-party company. We are happy to provide a quote regarding your location.