If you’re a property owner in New York City, receiving a violation from the Department of Buildings (DOB) can be a stressful experience. The DOB issues violations for various building code infractions, from unpermitted work to unsafe conditions. These violations can result in fines, penalties, and even the need for costly corrective actions. However, the good news is that you don’t have to live with a DOB violation forever. There are steps you can take to clear the violation from your property record, so long as you address the issue promptly and properly.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of removing DOB violations from your property and ensuring your property remains in compliance with city regulations.
1. Understand the Nature of the Violation
Before taking any action, it’s essential to fully understand the violation issued against your property. DOB violations can be complex, and they typically fall under one of the following categories:
- Work without a permit: If you or a contractor performed work on your property without obtaining the necessary permits, you may receive a violation.
- Unsafe or hazardous conditions: This includes issues like structural instability, electrical hazards, or lack of proper fire safety measures.
- Failure to comply with building codes: Violations can also stem from not following NYC’s specific building codes or zoning regulations, such as improper egress or insufficient fireproofing.
- Failure to correct previous violations: If past violations were not addressed within the prescribed timeline, the DOB may issue additional fines or penalties.
The violation notice from the DOB will detail the specific infraction, the deadline for compliance, and any fines or penalties. It may also include instructions on how to remedy the situation.
2. Review the Violation Notice Carefully
Take a moment to carefully read the violation notice you received. Important details to note include:
- Violation code: This indicates the specific regulation or law that has been violated. Understanding which code applies will help you know what corrective action is required.
- Severity level: Some violations may be classified as “major” or “minor,” which can affect the time frame you have to correct the issue.
- Deadline: The notice will specify a deadline for addressing the violation. If you don’t correct the issue by this time, you may incur additional fines or penalties.
- Fines and fees: The notice will outline any fines that have been assessed for the violation. These fines may increase if you do not resolve the issue within the specified period.
If you have any doubts or questions about the violation, it may be beneficial to consult with an attorney or a professional who specializes in building codes and DOB violations.
3. Determine the Cause of the Violation
After reviewing the violation notice, you should determine the cause of the issue. This will help you figure out the next steps for resolving it.
- Unpermitted work: If the violation is related to work done without a permit, check if the work was done by a licensed contractor. You may need to hire a professional to assess whether the work complies with building codes.
- Safety concerns: If the violation pertains to safety, such as structural issues or electrical hazards, you may need to hire a licensed engineer or contractor to inspect the property and make necessary repairs.
- Document and gather evidence: For some violations, especially if you believe the violation was issued in error, you will need to gather documentation, such as permits, contractor licenses, or inspection reports, to prove that the work was performed according to code.
Conclusion
While receiving a NYC DOB building violations can be intimidating, it’s important to remember that it’s not the end of the world. By understanding the violation, taking corrective action, and working with licensed professionals, you can resolve the issue and remove the violation from your property. Staying proactive and compliant with city regulations will not only ensure the safety of your property but also help you avoid unnecessary fines, penalties, or future violations. For reliable and professional contracting services, visit ZicklinContracting.com —your trusted partner for all your renovation and construction needs.