At Last, Co-op and Condo Boards Get Something for Free From the DOB

New York City co-op and condo boards have grown accustomed to the high cost of complying with a never-ending deluge of new city rules — widely derided as "unfunded mandates" — but during May the city is flipping the the script by offering no-cost, no-penalty inspections of decks, porches, retaining walls and business signs.

The No-Penalty Deck and Retaining Wall Inspection Program, inaugurated in 2005, is once again available during the month of May to co-op and condo boards, small business owners, homeowners and other property owners throughout the five boroughs. Participants can receive a free inspection by the city's Department of Buildings (DOB) to determine whether outdoor structures are in good condition with no visibly apparent violating conditions. Following the inspection, DOB will connect with property owners to discuss findings. If any unsafe conditions are discovered, DOB will provide guidance on any issues that need to be fixed without issuing any violations or penalties, allowing owners the opportunity to make corrective repairs and ensure the safety of their property.

“Government is most effective when we bring services directly to the people, and these initiatives keep New Yorkers safe by doing exactly that,” says Mayor Eric Adams. “We want to identify issues before they become safety hazards, and we are doing that by partnering with small business and property owners instead of penalizing them.”

The program expires May 31. To participate, call 311.