5 Common NYC Building Code Violations and How to Fix Them

New York City’s Department of Buildings (DOB) enforces strict building codes to maintain public safety. Property owners must address violations promptly to avoid fines, project delays, or safety issues. Below are the most common building code violations and how to fix them:

1. Failing to Provide Adequate Heat and Hot Water

Failing to maintain the inside temperature at 68 degrees when the outside temperature is below 55 degrees during the day, or maintain at 55 degrees when the outside temperature is below 40 degrees at night is one of the most common violations. Additionally, hot water with a minimum temperature of 120 degrees must be provided at all times.

2. Absent Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors

Owners are required to provide at least one carbon monoxide and one smoke detector in each long-term tenant’s dwelling or commercial space, though tenants are responsible for maintaining them properly. Detectors should be the type that beeps when the battery runs low.

3. Door and Window Locks That Require a Key to Exit

In an emergency situation, pausing to search for a key in order to get out of a building could be deadly.

4. Mold and Pests

Tenants are responsible for maintaining a level of cleanliness to prevent overgrowth of indoor mold or attracting pests, but conditions that go unchecked, resulting in excessive mold or vermin, are the owner’s responsibility.

5. Lack of Accessibility

Title III of the Americans Disabilities Act (ADA) is the most relevant of the ADA’s five titles for architects, builders, and others designing, constructing, and managing buildings and has changed the way architects design and build the world. From new constructed buildings to the older pieces of architecture, there is an existing lack of accessibility.

How to Fix Violations

Depending on the type of violation cited, an owner has a certain amount of time to rectify it:

• 90 days for Class A (Non-hazardous)
• 30 days for Class B (Hazardous)
• 21 days for Class C – Window guards or lead-based paint
• Immediately for Class C – Heat and hot water
• Within 24 hours for Class C – Everything else

The citation issued to the owner should contain a “cure by” or hearing date. If the owner repairs the problem and has it inspected and certified before that date, the hearing is cancelled and a new or revised Certificate of Occupancy is issued.

If you need to report a violation of a building, you can do so by calling NYC’s non-emergency hotline. If you are working on a construction site and want to avoid violations, then we suggest you work with a professional to ensure you meet all regulations and safety protocols. Our industry experts can help you navigate through the system and get your construction project well on its way to completion. If you have any questions, Ask us Anything.

Addressing violations promptly helps avoid penalties and ensures a safe environment for tenants and visitors. If you need professional assistance, contact us today!