No-Penalty Building Inspections for Smaller Co-ops and Condos Now Available

Smaller co-op and condo buildings that are not required to comply with the five-year cycles of the Facade Inspection and Safety Program (formerly known as Local Law 11), must still be maintained in a safe condition. To help the co-op and condo boards in those buildings, the city's Department of Buildings (DOB) is once again offering its free No-Penalty Inspection Program.

Boards have until July 31 to call 311 and arrange for a free inspection. 

“DOB’s No-Penalty Inspection Program is perfect for the building owner who wants to make home or business repairs, but doesn’t know how to get started," says DOB Commissioner Jimmy Oddo. "Upon request, we will send an experienced DOB inspector to help you get a better understanding of the condition of your property, and the steps needed to keep them in good repair.”

Following the inspection, the DOB will notify property owners of its findings. If inspectors find any violating conditions, they will not issue violations that carry associated penalties for a limited time. Instead, they'll provide guidance on how to correct the conditions, and they'll give the owners the opportunity to make repairs that will make their property safe.

This year, for the first time ever, DOB has added building facades (under six stories), boilers, and private elevators to items covered by the long-running program. As in years past, inspectors will also assess the condition of decks and patios, retaining walls, building signs, and unregistered boilers and unregistered private elevator devices. This year's added coverage marks the largest expansion since the program was inaugurated in 2005.

With the deadly collapse of a parking garage in Downtown Manhattan in April still fresh on New Yorkers' minds, the DOB says in a statement: "Weather, time and improper installation can cause building facades and outdoor structures to weaken and deteriorate over time. It is important that property owners ensure that these structures are up to code and properly maintained to prevent a potential collapse."

Call 311 today to schedule your free, no-penalty inspection.