May 20, 2026
by John Baich, SECC Chair & CBA ABIP Inspector
Sangre de Cristo Broadcast Consulting, LLC
2026 Alternative Broadcast Inspection Program (ABIP)
FCC-Approved Inspection Service for Radio and Television Stations
The Alternative Broadcast Inspection Program (ABIP) was established in 1989 to assist the FCC in confirming that broadcasters are operating in compliance with FCC regulations. If a station is certified, the FCC will not conduct random inspections on your station for a period of three years. It is important to note that this is not an insurance policy – the FCC retains the responsibility and authority to respond to all complaints against a station.
If you have participated in the past, check your certificate to confirm that you are still within the 36-month window through the end of 2026. Time to consider/budget a 2026 inspection if your certificate is going to expire, you’ve never had an ABIP inspection, or there have been significant changes at your station.
How the ABIP Inspection Works
Scheduling the Inspection
Reach out to your state Broadcasters Association to request a 2026 ABIP inspection. I will schedule inspections directly with the Station, making every effort to keep travel time/costs to a minimum. Seasonal access is also an important consideration.
Station Approval & Preparation
If the Station approves, I will inform the FCC of the scheduled inspection, the Station receives a 150-day grace period from the date of the scheduled inspection for correcting and resolving any FCC issues. Random FCC visits will not occur during this period (this does not prevent the FCC from responding to complaints, past or current).
Before the on-site visit, I will complete Public File inspections remotely. I will also review scanned copies of specific EAS and Transmitter logs prior to my on-site inspection. We can do this part on-site if you prefer or if you don’t have a means to send them electronically and enjoy watching paint dry.
On-Site Inspection
I will conduct an interview at the studio with the Chief Operator and General Manager (if available). We’ll cover equipment, operations, procedures, policies, and general facilities tour. Studio visits typically require two to four hours.
The transmitter site visit focuses on technical performance, tower condition, signage, documentation, and an air check. The Chief Operator and/or Transmitter Engineer should be present during this phase of the process. I typically spend an hour at the transmitter (excluding travel time).
Post-Inspection
The Chief Operator and General Manager will receive a comprehensive report, typically six to ten pages in length. This report will include my observations, required corrections for certification, and recommended practices.
Following my report, I’ll work with the station within the 150-day grace period to help them achieve their certification.
Benefits of ABIP Certification
Three-year exemption from routine FCC random inspections
Professional third-party review of compliance status
Opportunity to correct issues before they become FCC violations
Peace of mind and documentation of regulatory diligence
Apply today to schedule your 2026 ABIP inspection and ensure continued compliance with confidence.
