Are you prepared for State and City reopening requirements?

As construction work in New York City continues to pick up with subsequent reopening phases, the City’s Department of Buildings (DOB) is picking up the pace of their inspections to ensure compliance with both City and State restart requirements. DOB spent most of June conducting a compliance sweep of permitted sites, but didn’t issue financial penalties.

Effective July 8, 2020 sites found out of compliance will be subjected to a penalty of $5,000 per violation, with the potential for Stop Work Orders. Continued noncompliance may result in additional summonses and civil penalties of up to $10,000 per offense. Additionally, if inspectors observe any Construction Code or Electrical Code non-compliance, they will also take appropriate enforcement action, including issuing potential violations with financial penalties.

Need a refresher? Review the What To Know One-Pager outlining requirements your site(s) must follow prior to restarting work, and the requirements DOB inspectors are looking for during compliance sweeps.

Don’t neglect capacity signage! While the building industry is working hard to stay compliant, DOB’s inspection sweep in June revealed several areas with room to improve including signage in all hoists and elevators. Capacity is limited to 50% in each cab and landing and your site signage must reflect the limited capacity.

For additional information, visit nyc.gov/buildings, the DOB Phase-1 re-opening webpage, DOB’s Phase 1 Re-Opening Guidance, DOB’s FAQs, and the State’s Interim Guidelines.

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Robert Stahl Architect has over 20+ years experience in New York City, Westchester, and Fairfield County in assisting building owners with a variety of projects.