Building safety in New York City doesn’t merely involve following laws—it’s about protecting lives and property. With DOB violations increasing across the five boroughs, landlords are finding it increasingly difficult to remain compliant and ensure tenants’ safety. At Zicklin Contracting, we recognize these issues and have created comprehensive solutions to address them.
Understanding the Regulatory Landscape
NYC’s building safety environment has become much more complex. Recently, local regulations and building codes have been amended, leaving homeowners with a regulatory ratchet to scramble through. Most structures, especially those constructed before 1984, are particularly challenging in delivering contemporary safety requirements while preserving their historical character.
Common DOB Violations That Put Lives at Risk
Most building owners don’t realize that these seemingly small violations can result in serious safety hazards. Some of the most dangerous violations we see include:
- Obstructed fire escapes and emergency exits.
- Faulty wiring and overloaded circuits.
- Missing or defective smoke/carbon monoxide detectors
- Unauthorized building alterations
- Inadequate fire-stopping between units
- Non-compliant sprinkler systems
These violations not only lead to costly fines but also pose actual threats to both tenants and visitors. In 2023 alone, the FDNY responded to more than 40,000 building fires, many fueled by prior building code violations.
