Smooth Rides and Safe Lifts: A Practical Guide to Seattle Elevator and Escalator Inspections
At Olympic Elevator, we know that elevators, escalators, and lifts are more than just machinery. They keep buildings running and people moving. That is why inspections and permits matter. Whether you're installing a new elevator or simply making sure your current one stays safe and reliable, here is what you need to know.
What Are Elevator and Escalator Inspections?
Inspections are regular safety checks for vertical transportation equipment. This includes elevators, escalators, material lifts, moving walks, wheelchair lifts, and dumbwaiters. These inspections happen during the construction of new equipment, after any major alterations, and on an annual basis for all regularly operating systems.
If it lifts, rolls, or moves people or materials vertically or horizontally, it needs to be inspected.
When Should Inspections Be Scheduled?
Annual Certificate of Conveyance Inspections
These are scheduled automatically by the City of Seattle each year, as close as possible to the month of your last inspection. You do not need to call unless there are special circumstances.
Alteration and Installation Permit Inspections
If you are upgrading existing equipment or installing something new, the inspection must be scheduled by your elevator contractor. This contractor must hold a valid Washington State elevator contractor’s license.
How to Schedule an Inspection
Only licensed elevator contractors are allowed to schedule alteration and installation inspections. Here is how it works:
Contact the elevator inspector responsible for the district listed on your permit.
Inspectors are available by phone in the office between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m.
If you need to reach your inspector outside of these hours, use the field contact number from the elevator inspector phone list.
Before calling, make sure you have the following details ready:
The conveyance number (assigned to every elevator and escalator in Seattle)
The complete and accurate address and building name
For new installations, the permit number, project name and address, and application date
This will help streamline the process and get your inspection scheduled quickly.
Do You Need a Permit?
If you are installing or modifying elevators, escalators, moving walks, wheelchair lifts, dumbwaiters, or material lifts in any building or residence, you need a permit. Your contractor must be licensed in Washington, and if you are working within Seattle city limits, you may also need a Seattle business license.
What Does It Cost?
Fees vary depending on whether you are installing new equipment, performing repair work, or renewing your annual inspection certificate. A small technology fee is also added to all permit fees. You can find complete fee details in the Seattle Fee Subtitle.
To pay for your certificate of conveyance inspection, log in to the Seattle Services Portal or contact the cashier at (206) 386-9780.
How Long Does It Take?
Once your application is submitted and all required information is complete, most elevator and escalator permits are issued within 14 business days. Missing or incomplete information may delay the process.
Viewing Your Inspection Report
Need help accessing your inspection report? The City of Seattle has created a helpful step-by-step video that shows you how to view your report through the Seattle Services Portal. Once retrieved, you will need to send a copy to your elevator service provider.
You can watch the video here: How to View Your Inspection Report
Keeping People Moving, Safely
At Olympic Elevator, safety and reliability are at the heart of what we do. Annual inspections and proper permitting keep your building’s equipment running smoothly and protect the people who use it every day. Whether you are planning a new installation or preparing for your next inspection, we are here to support you at every step.
For questions, service, or guidance, contact the Olympic Elevator team. We will help you stay on track and up to code.
