Why Elevators Fail Inspections: The 10 Most Common Violations in Illinois

A failed elevator inspection in Illinois isn’t just an inconvenience; it can mean shutdowns, frustrated tenants, delayed occupancy, and serious liability for building owners and property managers.

The good news? Most failed inspections are caused by repeat, preventable elevator code violations. When you know what inspectors are looking for, you can fix problems faster and avoid future failures.

Let’s break down the 10 most common elevator inspection violations in Illinois, what they mean, and how to correct them quickly so your equipment can pass reinspection and get back into service.

Need help right away? Visit our Elevator Violation Correction Services page to schedule fast, code-compliant repairs.

What Happens When an Elevator Fails Inspection in Illinois

When an elevator fails inspection, the consequences can be immediate. Depending on the severity of the violation, the inspector may:

• Issue a violation notice with a correction deadline
• Require a reinspection after repairs
• Place the elevator out of service (red-tagged) until violations are corrected

In Chicago and throughout Illinois, enforcement may come from state authorities or local jurisdictions. Either way, building owners are responsible for making corrections using a licensed Illinois elevator contractor, like Chicago Elevator Company.

Not addressing violations ASAP or allowing delays in addressing violations can lead to fines and penalties, in addition to liability exposure, tenant complaints or lease issues, and extended equipment downtime

Fast, professional correction is the key to minimizing disruption.

The 9 Most Common Elevator Inspection Violations in Illinois

1. Inoperable Emergency Communication System

Inspectors always test the elevator’s two-way emergency communication system. If a passenger presses the emergency button, they must be able to reach a live response; it can be a life-saving feature during entrapments

Common problems with emergency communication systems include:

• Disconnected landlines
• Failed cellular dialers
• Dead backup batteries
• Outdated or non-ADA-compliant messaging

How to fix it: Test phones monthly, upgrade to code-compliant cellular systems, and verify monitoring service is active.

2. Door Restrictor or Interlock Issues

Elevator doors must not open when the car is between floors. Door restrictors and interlocks are critical safety components that prevent this.

Common causes of failure with these mechanisms include:

• Worn mechanical parts
• Misalignment
• Electrical contact issues
• Tampering or improper adjustments

How to fix it: Replace worn restrictors, adjust door equipment, and verify proper locking circuits.

3. Fire Service (Phase I & II) Malfunctions

Elevators must respond correctly during a fire alarm. Inspectors test Firefighters’ Emergency Operation, including recall and in-car controls. Some of the most frequent violations include:

• Elevator not recalling to the designated floor
• Smoke detectors not properly interfaced
• Phase II in-car controls not functioning

How to fix it: Coordinate testing between the elevator contractor and fire alarm vendor to ensure all systems communicate correctly.

4. Worn or Missing Safety Signage

Signage is one of the most overlooked causes of failed inspections. Common missing items in elevators include:

• Capacity plates
• Fire operation instructions
• Machine room warning signs
• Pit access warnings
• Braille signage

Keep in mind that renovations and repaints most often lead to signs being removed and never replaced.

How to fix it: Install permanent, code-compliant engraved signage in all required locations.

5. Machine Room Code Violations

Elevator machine rooms must meet strict code requirements; they are not storage closets.

Top machine room code violations include:

• Storage of non-elevator materials
• Blocked access to equipment
• Missing electrical disconnect labels
• Poor lighting
• Water leaks or excessive heat

How to fix it: Remove all stored items, improve lighting, correct labeling, and address environmental issues like moisture or ventilation.

6. Oil Leaks or Poor Housekeeping in the Pit

Inspectors also check the elevator pit for safety and environmental hazards during inspections. Typical issues they uncover include:

• Hydraulic oil accumulation
• Standing water
• Debris and trash
• Rusted components

Oil and water in the pit can damage equipment and create slip hazards, which is why buildings will receive a violation if they are not maintained.

How to fix it: Repair leaks, clean the pit, and install drainage or sump solutions if water intrusion is recurring.

7. Expired or Missing Testing Documentation

Illinois requires periodic elevator testing, and inspectors will want proof of your completed testing. Violations often occur because of:

• Missing Category 1 or Category 5 test records
• Incomplete maintenance logs
• Documentation not available on-site

It’s important to remember that even if testing was performed, missing paperwork can still result in a violation.

How to fix it: Schedule required tests on time and maintain organized records in the machine room or approved location.

8. Governor, Safety, or Brake Test Deficiencies

During periodic safety testing, critical components like governors, safeties, and brakes must meet performance standards. These are not cosmetic issues; they are core safety systems. Failures are often due to:

• Worn brake linings
• Improper brake torque
• Governor tripping outside required limits

How to fix it: Adjust, rebuild, or replace components before reinspection. 

9. Lighting & Ventilation Issues in the Cab

Cab conditions are part of an elevator inspection too. Frequent elevator violations within the cab include:

• Burned-out lights
• Non-working emergency lighting
• Inoperable ventilation fans

How to fix it: Replace lighting fixtures, test emergency battery backup units, and repair or replace ventilation fans.

How to Correct Elevator Violations Quickly

When an elevator fails inspection, speed matters, but so does doing the job right. Working with a licensed Illinois elevator contractor, like Chicago Elevator, ensures:

• Repairs meet current code requirements
• Proper documentation is provided
• The elevator is prepared for reinspection
• Repeat failures are avoided

DIY fixes or unqualified repairs often lead to additional violations and longer downtime.

Before elevator reinspection, make sure your contractor:

• Reviews all cited violations
• Performs required testing
• Verifies documentation is complete
• Conducts a pre-inspection check

How to Avoid Failing Your Next Elevator Inspection

Prevention is always less expensive than emergency repairs.

Here’s how building owners can reduce the risk of failed inspections:

• Keep up with regular preventive maintenance
• Schedule required annual and five-year tests on time
• Perform a pre-inspection audit before the official visit
• Keep machine rooms and pits clean and code-compliant
• Maintain organized testing and maintenance records

A proactive maintenance partner can identify small issues before they become inspection failures.

Illinois Elevator Code Compliance You Can Trust

Elevator inspections in Illinois are governed by state rules, national safety standards like ASME A17.1 / CSA B44, and, in some areas, additional local requirements. Staying compliant requires technical expertise and up-to-date knowledge of code changes.

Chicago Elevator specializes in:

• Elevator violation correction
• Inspection preparation
• Required safety testing
• Modernization for code compliance

Our team works with property managers, condo associations, commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, and residential high-rises across Illinois to resolve violations quickly and professionally.

Need Help Fixing an Elevator Inspection Violation?

Failed inspections are common, but they don’t have to mean long shutdowns or repeated penalties. Fast action and experienced technicians make all the difference.

Get your elevator back in service quickly and safely. Request a Violation Correction Quote today or call our service line for immediate assistance.