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How to Check if HPD Violations Were Actually Fixed

How to Check if HPD Violations Were Actually Fixed

Imagine discovering your landlord's promised HPD violation fixes were mere illusions-leaving you liable for fines or unsafe conditions. In New York City, unverified corrections plague tenants and buyers alike, per HPD records showing thousands of unresolved cases annually.

This guide equips you with essential steps: from probing HPDonline and DOB portals, to physical inspections, professional hires, and agency verifications-ensuring fixes are genuine.

Unlock the truth before it's too late.

Understanding HPD Violations and Fixes

Understanding HPD Violations and Fixes

The Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) enforces the NYC Housing Maintenance Code to ensure safe living conditions in rental buildings. HPD violations impact over 500,000 NYC units annually, with 70% classified as Class A, B, or C requiring specific correction timelines. Tenants often report issues via 311, triggering HPD inspections.

Under Local Law 1 of 2004, owners certify corrections through a structured process. This involves filing a Certificate of Correction (C of C) to dismiss violations. Recent data highlights 1.2M open violations across boroughs in 2023, underscoring the need to verify fixes.

To check if HPD violations were actually fixed, review the status on the HPDonline portal using the property's Borough Block Lot (BBL) number or address. Look for closed violations marked as certified corrected. Persistent open violations signal non-compliance.

Owners must provide proof like contractor receipts or inspection reports during re-inspection. Tenants can track violation status to confirm resolution and protect building safety.

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What HPD Violations Typically Involve

HPD issues Class A (non-hazardous like inadequate heat), Class B (hazardous like lead paint), and Class C (immediately hazardous like no hot water) violations affecting 85% of multifamily buildings. These stem from the NYC Admin Code 27-2005 and cover common tenant complaints.

Here are five frequent HPD violations with examples:

  • Heat violations: Rooms below 68 degreesF in winter, require 21-day fix under Housing Maintenance Code.
  • Pest infestations: Class B issues like rats or roaches, 30-day correction timeline.
  • Leaks or plumbing: Class C for ongoing leaks, demand immediate action.
  • Lead paint: In pre-1960 buildings, hazardous exposure risks to children.
  • Mold over 30 sq ft: Triggers health concerns, needs prompt remediation.

Use the HPD website or BIS system for violation lookup by house number, street name, or violation ID. Check violation description and issued date to assess urgency.

Class C violations often lead to emergency repair programs if ignored, while Class A may result in fines. Tenants verify via 311 service requests for updates.

Legal Requirements for Violation Corrections

Owners must file Certificate of Correction (C of C) within 5 days of fix completion per HMC 27-2115, with licensed professional certification for Class B/C violations. HPD Rule 55 outlines dismissal timelines: 21 days for Class A, 30 days for Class B.

Key requirements include:

  • Dismissal timelines: Strict 21-day notice for Class A, 30 days for B, immediate for Class C.
  • Self-certification limits: Allowed only for non-hazardous Class A, not hazardous ones.
  • Architect or engineer stamps: Required for complex fixes, costing around $200-500.
  • HPD re-inspection fee: Typically $250 to confirm compliance.

For violation status checks, use HPDonline with BBL or property address. Look for dismissed violations or certified corrected status to verify fixes.

False certifications trigger civil penalties or abatement orders. Owners appeal via ECB hearings if disputes arise over correction proof.

Common Types of Fixes (Plumbing, Electrical, Structural)

Plumbing fixes average $1,200-3,500, electrical rewiring $2,000-8,000, structural repairs $5,000+ per NYC DOB 2023 cost data. These address prevalent HPD violations and require proper documentation for closure.

For plumbing fixes, replace corroded pipes with permits from DOB. Before: Dripping ceilings from leaks. After: New PEX piping sealed, confirmed via violation photos.

Electrical fixes involve installing GFCI outlets or panel upgrades by a licensed electrician with LIC#. Examples include rewiring outdated knob-and-tube systems. Inspectors check for code compliance during re-inspection.

  • Structural repairs: Fix sagging joists with a Professional Engineer (PE) stamp.
  • Before: Cracked beams in basement. After: Reinforced supports, engineer certification filed.

To confirm fixes, request proof of correction like receipts or before-after evidence. Use DOB NOW or Building Information System for open DOB violations tied to HPD issues.

Gathering Essential Documentation

Proper documentation establishes compliance proof required for sales, rentals, and financing with NYC HPD. It shows if HPD violations were actually fixed and helps avoid disputes over open violations or closed violations. Start with the original NOV containing Violation ID #HXXXXXXXXX.

The Housing Preservation Department tracks violation status through public records on HPDonline. Owners must gather NOVs, certificates of correction, and DOB records to verify correction. This process confirms violation compliance for class A, B, or C violations, including hazardous ones like heat or mold.

Collect proof of correction such as contractor receipts, photos, and inspection reports. Check for dismissed violations or those certified corrected to ensure no civil penalties remain. Use BBL number or property address for accurate violation lookup in the database.

Review violation history for patterns like repeated pest or boiler issues. This step prevents issues during property inspections or tenant complaints via 311. Essential for building safety and code compliance under NYC housing code.

Obtaining the Original Violation Notice

Use HPDonline violation lookup with BBL or house number, street name, zip code to download NOV PDF showing issued date and status. This document lists violation ID, description, and correction deadline like 21-day notice. It is the starting point to check violations.

Follow these steps for quick access:

  1. Go to HPDonline.nyc.gov.
  2. Enter BBL such as 1001/0001/0012 or property address including apartment number.
  3. Select the Violations tab.
  4. Download the NOV with Violation ID #HXXXXXXXXX.

This takes about 5 minutes and reveals violation date, class like immediately hazardous, and current status such as not corrected. Note ECB violations if linked. Essential for tracking open violations or certified corrected ones.

Examples include lead paint violations or fire safety violations with details on multiple dwelling law breaches. Save the PDF for re-inspection proof or appeal violations. Helps owners verify if fixes match HPD inspector notes.

Requesting Certification of Correction (C of C)

Submit C of C via HPDonline within 5 days of correction or face daily fines per HMC 27-2115. This certificate of correction or correction affidavit proves fixes for HPD violations. Critical for closing violations and avoiding abatement orders.

Use these steps in the online portal:

  1. Login to HPDonline Owner Portal with your credentials.
  2. Navigate to Correct Violation using Violation ID.
  3. Upload contractor receipts, photos, and before-after evidence.
  4. Select certification type like owner, super, PE, or licensed professional.

Processing takes 2-4 weeks, after which status updates to certified corrected. Include elevator violations or hot water violations proofs from qualified experts. Owner responsibility ensures violation resolution.

For emergency violations or AEP buildings, add superintendent certification or engineer certification. Track via HPD tracking to confirm no partially corrected status. Prevents fines payment issues or vacate orders.

Reviewing Building Permits and DOB Records

Major violation fixes require DOB permits verifiable via BISweb at a810-bisweb.nyc.gov. Cross-check open DOB violations with HPD records using BBL. Ensures code compliance for fixed violations like boiler or structural issues.

Access records with these steps:

  1. Search BISweb by BBL number.
  2. Check Open Permits/Complaints section.
  3. Verify DOB PW# matches HPD violation ID.
  4. Download sign-off docs or inspection reports.

Flag permits expired over 90 days, as they indicate incomplete work. Examples include mold violations needing DOB NOW approvals or self-certification. Matches HPD re-inspection findings.

Review Building Information System for violation photos and proof. Essential for class C hazardous violations or local law violations. Confirms no emergency repair program needs or alternative enforcement.

Using Official HPD and DOB Online Portals

HPDonline and BIS portals give real-time status on violations from the Housing Preservation Department and Department of Buildings. HPDonline tracks violation lifecycles, while BIS cross-references permits for work done to fix issues. Both update daily, often by 8AM ET.

HPDonline tracks 1.8M violations; BIS handles 400K+ DOB records - both updated daily by 8AM ET. Use these for violation lookup with a property address or BBL number. They show if HPD violations are truly fixed, including certificates of correction.

Start with HPDonline for core details like status and dates. Then check BIS for linked open DOB violations or permits. This confirms proof of correction beyond owner claims.

Landlords often file a certificate of correction without full fixes. Portals reveal class B violations or immediately hazardous issues lingering as open. Tenants verify via violation search using house number, street name, or zip code.

Accessing HPDonline for Violation Status

Accessing HPDonline for Violation Status

Navigate to hpdonline.nyc.gov/hpdonline/ 'Search Violations' enter BBL or address to view status updated within 48 hours of HPD action. This HPD website shows the full violation history for any NYC property. Look for changes like open to corrected.

Enter the BBL number, house number, street name, borough, or apartment number. Results display a table with violation ID, status, issued date, and description. Click any violation number for details, photos, and re-inspection notes.

For example, violation #H36472819 changed 'OpenCorrected' 3/15/24 after a heat violation fix. Photos show before-and-after evidence from HPD inspectors. Check for certified corrected status to confirm HPD verified the work.

Red flags include open violations past the 21-day notice deadline. Use this for status check on mold violations or pest violations. Print reports as proof for tenant complaints or 311 requests.

Checking BIS on NYC DOB Website

BISweb at a810-bisweb.nyc.gov reveals open complaints/permits linked to 62% of HPD violations requiring DOB approval. Access the Building Information System to cross-check fixes needing permits. This spots if fixed violations match DOB records.

Follow these steps: go to BISweb, select 'Search by Location', enter BBL or house number and street. Click the 'Open Jobs' tab to view active permits. Match any PW# with HPD violation details.

  1. Launch BISweb and choose 'Search by Location'.
  2. Input property address, BBL, or zip code.
  3. Select the building for job history.
  4. Review 'Open Jobs' for links to HPD issues like boiler violations.

A red flag is 'Expired' status on needed permits for elevator violations or fire safety work. DOB NOW integrates newer records, but BIS covers legacy data. Verify no abatement orders or vacate orders remain active.

Interpreting Portal Status Codes (Open, Corrected, Dismissed)

Status 'Corrected Certified' means HPD accepted C of C; 'Open' after 21 days triggers $250/day fines. Portals use color codes for quick reads: red for active risks, green for resolved. Understand these to verify correction on any building.

Use this table to decode common violation status types.

StatusColorMeaningAction Needed
OpenRedFines accrue; not fixedOwner must correct, re-inspect
CorrectedGreenCertificate of correction filedAwait HPD review
Certified CorrectedBlueHPD verified fixClosed; safe
DismissedGrayInvalid or duplicateNo action
Partially CorrectedYellowPartial fix; re-inspect soonComplete remaining work

For class C violations like lead paint, 'Partially Corrected' means re-inspection looms. Dismissed violations often follow appeals or ECB hearings. Check inspection reports for contractor receipts or engineer certification.

Owners self-certify minor class A violations, but hazardous ones need licensed pros. Track via HPD tracking for AEP buildings or emergency repairs. This ensures code compliance and building safety.

Physical Inspection of the Property

On-site verification remains essential for checking HPD violations even after a certificate of correction appears in the HPDonline portal. Digital records alone miss issues where repairs look good on paper but fail in reality. A hands-on property inspection confirms if closed violations truly protect building safety.

Physical inspection catches paper fixes where violations persist despite portal status. Walk through the property with a checklist tailored to the violation description, such as mold or heat issues listed in the violation lookup. Bring a notebook and camera to document findings against the original HPD inspector report.

Focus on areas noted in the NYC HPD violation history, like class B or class C violations for plumbing or wiring. Compare current conditions to photos from the initial 311 service request or tenant complaint. This step verifies proof of correction beyond self-certification or contractor receipts.

Schedule your visit during peak usage times, such as winter for heat violations or evenings for lighting. Note the property address, borough block lot (BBL number), and apartment number for accurate records. This thorough approach ensures violation compliance and avoids surprises during HPD re-inspection.

Visual Checks for Obvious Repairs

Check painted-over mold, patched ceiling leaks, or new smoke detectors by testing the button. Start with ceilings and walls for signs of fresh paint hiding water damage or mold violations. Peel back paint gently to reveal underlying issues not fixed despite a correction affidavit.

Use this 10-point checklist for visual scans:

  • Ceilings and walls for new paint over water damage.
  • Floors for patched buckling or uneven repairs.
  • Windows and frames for new caulking around edges.
  • Exits and hallways for clear paths without obstructions.
  • Basement areas for new sump pumps or drainage fixes.
  • Electrical panels for updated covers and labels.
  • Doors for proper sealing against pests.
  • Stairs for repaired treads and handrails.
  • Radiators for fresh paint without underlying rust.
  • Overall for fire safety violations like missing extinguishers.

Document everything with timestamped photos showing before-and-after evidence if available from violation records. Measure repair areas for consistency, such as patch sizes matching the original violation ID description. This creates a record for disputing not corrected status if needed.

Testing Functional Systems (Water, Electricity, Heat)

Test hot water at 110-130 degreesF after a 5-minute run, all outlets with a simple outlet tester, radiators reaching 68 degreesF. These checks verify fixes for common hot water violations, heat violations, and electrical issues under the NYC housing code. Record results with videos for proof during any re-inspection.

Follow this testing protocol step by step:

  1. Run hot water for 5 minutes and measure temperature with a thermometer.
  2. Use a GFCI outlet tester on all accessible outlets.
  3. Place a thermometer on radiators during heating hours.
  4. Test circuit breakers by flipping and resetting safely.
  5. Press test buttons on smoke and CO detectors; replace batteries if chirping.

Look for boiler violations by listening for unusual noises or checking pressure gauges. In apartments, test fixtures noted in the violation database, like faucets with low pressure indicating partial fixes. Share videos with timestamps matching the violation date for HPD tracking.

If systems fail, note details like apartment number and house number for a new 311 service request. This confirms owner responsibility for code compliance and prevents civil penalties from open violations.

Signs of Incomplete or Shoddy Fixes

Warning signs include fresh paint over active leaks, mismatched flooring patches, temporary wiring fixes. These indicate incomplete repairs that could lead to abatement orders or emergency repairs. Spot them early to demand proper violation resolution from the landlord.

Watch for these red flags during your inspection:

  • Mismatched repair materials, like new tiles next to old.
  • Surface-only fixes, such as paint without mold removal.
  • Missing DOB inspection stickers on elevators or boilers.
  • Contractor debris remaining in corners or vents.
  • Fresh caulk over cracks that have reopened.
  • Temporary wiring taped instead of properly rewired.
  • Patches bulging or discolored shortly after repair.
  • No superintendent certification or licensed professional sign-off.

Take photos and measurements of problem areas, comparing to the original violation description in HPDonline. For lead paint violations or pest violations, check for residue under fresh layers. Report findings to trigger a hearing request if the certificate of correction seems invalid.

Common in AEP buildings or those with vacate orders, shoddy work often ties to class C hazardous violations. Use your evidence to request public records via FOIL for full violation history. This protects tenants and ensures long-term building safety.

Hiring Professional Inspectors

Professional inspections costing $400-800 uncover 3x more issues than DIY checks, making them essential for buildings over six units. Licensed inspectors carry E&O insurance and provide court-admissible reports. In NYC, they are required for AEP buildings under the Alternative Enforcement Program.

These experts verify if HPD violations were actually fixed by cross-referencing the HPDonline database with on-site findings. They check open violations, closed violations, and violation status against physical evidence like repair receipts or certificates of correction. This ensures NYC Housing Preservation Department records match reality.

For multi-family properties, inspectors use the Building Information System (BIS) or DOB NOW to pull violation history by BBL number or property address. They document Class B violations or Class C violations with photos, confirming if hazardous violations like lead paint violations or boiler violations comply with the NYC housing code.

Owners benefit from detailed reports that support violation lookup disputes or appeal violations. Inspectors often include re-inspection options to track violation correction deadlines, helping avoid civil penalties or abatement orders.

When to Call a Licensed Home Inspector

Hire for Class B/C violations, buildings pre-1970, or multiple open violations (over five) per InterNACHI standards. These trigger conditions demand professional eyes to check violations beyond basic HPD website status. DIY misses hidden issues in immediately hazardous conditions.

Call for hazardous violations like emergency violations or fire safety violations, where HPD inspector re-inspection alone may not suffice. Pre-1960 structures risk lead paint violations, requiring certified checks. Multi-family buildings over 10 units need thorough property inspection for code compliance.

  • Hazardous violations: Gas leaks or structural cracks demand urgent verification.
  • Pre-1960 lead paint risk: Test for friable paint under local laws.
  • Multi-family >10 units: Full scan of multiple dwelling law compliance.
  • Rent-regulated properties: Confirm fixes for tenant-filed 311 service requests.
  • Purchase due diligence: Review violation records before closing.

Find inspectors via ASHI directories, then verify NYC HPD credentials. They provide inspection reports linking violation ID to site evidence, aiding violation resolution.

Specialized Experts for Specific Violations

Specialized Experts for Specific Violations

PE stamps are required for structural issues ($350-600), elevator experts for shaft inspections ($1,200), and asbestos specialists for friable material ($2,500+). These pros confirm if fixed violations meet NYC HPD standards. Use verified directories for licensed professionals.

Match experts to violation types for accurate status checks. A structural PE with NYS license assesses Class C violations like foundation cracks. Elevator QEI inspectors verify elevator violations post-repair.

  • Structural PE (NYS license #): Certifies beams, walls via engineer certification.
  • Elevator QEI inspector: Inspects shafts, cables for DOB violations.
  • Lead EPA RRP firm: Tests and abates lead paint violations.
  • Mold IAQA microbiologist: Samples for mold violations.
  • Boiler RI (Regulated Installer): Recertifies boiler violations and hot water violations.

Verify all LIC# on NYC.gov before hiring. They supply proof of correction, like architect certification, tying back to HPD tracking and violation database.

Costs and What to Expect from Reports

Standard home inspection runs $450-650 (1-3 hours); specialized engineering hits $800-2,500. Reports include photos, violation cross-references, and before-after evidence. Expect 30-day warranties and re-inspection clauses.

Inspectors detail violation description, issued date, and current not corrected status or certified corrected. They reference ECB violations and fines payment history. Photos prove pest violations or heat violations fixes.

ServiceCostReport DetailsFocus Areas
Home Inspector$50050-page reportElectrical/Plumbing/Structural
Engineering$1,200PE stamp letterHazardous violations

Reports support superintendent certification or self-certification, helping with FOIL requests for public records. They flag vacate orders or emergency repair program needs, ensuring building safety.

Verifying with Official Agencies

Official channels like HPD agencies offer binding verification of fixed violations that goes beyond online portals such as HPDonline or the BIS system. These methods confirm whether HPD violations were truly corrected, including details on violation status, open violations, and closed violations. Direct contact resolves doubts about violation history tied to a property's BBL number or address.

Agencies provide access to inspection reports and HPD inspector notes not always visible in public violation lookup tools. This is key for checking class A violations, class B violations, or class C violations like heat, hot water, or mold issues. Tenants and owners alike use these steps for status checks on NYC housing code compliance.

Verification helps distinguish certified corrected from not corrected status or partially corrected entries. It covers emergency violations, immediately hazardous conditions, and proof like certificate of correction or correction affidavit. Always reference the violation ID and violation date for accurate results.

These official routes ensure building safety and code compliance, especially in AEP buildings or those with vacate orders. They reveal violation photos, before after evidence, and re-inspection outcomes not listed online.

Contacting HPD Directly by Phone or Email

Call HPD Violations Unit at 212-863-6300 from Monday to Friday, 9AM to 4PM, with your Violation ID ready; expect a 2-3 day callback for verbal status confirmation. Start with your borough's HPD office numbers for local issues like pest violations or boiler violations. Have the property address, house number, street name, and zip code handy.

Follow this protocol: first, dial the Borough HPD office; second, email violations@hpd.nyc.gov using the BBL number and Violation ID; third, reference the ticket as #HPD-YYYY-XXXX; fourth, request violation status details. Use this sample script: "I'm inquiring about Violation ID #HPD-2023-12345 for BBL 1234567890 at 123 Main St. Can you confirm if it's certified corrected with re-inspection proof?"

This direct method verifies proof of correction, such as contractor receipts or engineer certification. It's ideal for self-certification cases or dismissed violations. Staff can explain violation correction deadline extensions or abatement orders.

Phone or email contact uncovers violation description updates and HPD tracking not in the HPD website. Owners confirm owner responsibility for fire safety violations, while tenants check tenant complaints resolution.

Requesting Re-Inspection via 311

Dial 311 or visit 311.nyc.gov to request re-inspection for uncorrected HPD violations, selecting the option for HPD violation not corrected. Provide the Violation ID, apartment number, new violation photos, and building violations details. An HPD inspector arrives between 8AM and 4PM to assess fixed violations.

The process works like this: call 311, choose the violation category, submit evidence like photos of ongoing mold or leaking boilers, and track with the confirmation number. Requests schedule within 7-21 days at a $275 cost, often reopening non-hazardous or hazardous violations. This verifies if a certificate of correction matches reality.

Re-inspections check NYC housing code fixes, such as lead paint violations or elevator violations. Tenants report via 311 service request if superintendent certification seems false. Inspectors note partially corrected status or issue civil penalties.

Track progress for violation resolution and violation compliance. This step provides inspection report proof beyond online portals, ensuring property inspection for multiple dwelling law adherence.

FOIL Requests for Inspection Records

FOIL requests processed in 5 days reveal HPD inspector notes and photos absent from portals like DOB NOW or HPDonline. Email records@hpd.nyc.gov with subject 'FOIL Request - BBL XXXX Inspection Records', specifying date range, Violation ID, and issued date. Expect a $0.25 per page fee for public records.

Submit via these steps: email the address, detail the violation search for BBL number and street name, request violation records including EC B violations, and await fulfillment. This uncovers expired violations, 21-day notice compliance, or appeal violations history. Use for local law violations or emergency repair program docs.

Freedom of Information Law access shows before after evidence for heat violations or pest issues. Owners verify fines payment or hearing request outcomes. Tenants confirm open DOB violations tied to HPD database.

These records detail violation lookup for AEP buildings or Alternative Enforcement Program. They provide check violations proof, like architect certification or licensed professional affidavits, aiding building safety.

Timeline and Legal Recourse

Timeline violations for HPD violations trigger escalating fines up to $15,000 per Housing Maintenance Code violation. Landlords must fix issues within set periods or face civil penalties that compound daily. Missing deadlines leads to liens and potential abatement orders.

Class A violations require fixes in 21 days, Class B in 30 days, and Class C demand immediate action. Violations expire after 3 years if not certified as corrected through the HPD website or BIS system. Owners submit a certificate of correction to close them officially.

Track violation status via violation lookup on HPDonline using property address, BBL number, or house number. Seasonal rules apply, like heat violations from November to March needing faster response. ECB violations add another layer with their own appeal timelines.

If open violations persist, tenants can file 311 complaints or pursue legal steps. Experts recommend documenting everything with photos and contractor receipts for proof of correction. This protects against fines and ensures building safety.

Standard Timelines for Fixes and Certifications

Timeline table: Class A (21 days fix + 5 days C of C), Class B (30 days), Class C (24-72 hours), Heat/Hot Water (immediate). These deadlines start from the violation date or issued date on the notice. Owners must use licensed professionals for re-inspection or self-certification where allowed.

Violation ClassFix DeadlineC of C DueFines/Day
Class A (non-hazardous)21 days26 days$250 after 21 days
Class B (hazardous)30 days35 days$500 after 30 days
Class C (immediately hazardous)24-72 hours5 days$1,000 after 24 hours
Heat (Nov-Mar)3 days8 days$250/day
Hot WaterImmediate3 days$250/day

Check Building Information System or DOB NOW for open DOB violations alongside HPD records. Seasonal variations shorten timelines for emergency violations like boiler or elevator issues. Submit correction affidavit with architect or engineer certification for complex fixes.

For lead paint violations or mold, expect stricter scrutiny during re-inspection by an HPD inspector. Heat and hot water rules enforce NYC housing code year-round but intensify in winter. Always verify via violation search to avoid compounding fines.

What to Do if Violations Remain Open

Open violations over 60 days trigger ECB hearings; fines compound at $250-2,000 daily up to $25,000 cap. Persistent class C violations like fire safety or pest issues risk vacate orders. Tenants should monitor violation history on HPDonline by entering borough, block, lot, or apartment number.

Follow these 5-step recourse process if fixes lag.

  1. File an ECB appeal within 30 days for $25 fee to contest the violation or extension.
  2. Request HPD Abatement, which imposes a $2,000+ lien but forces city repairs.
  3. Call 311 for emergency repair program on heat, hot water, or lead paint violations.
  4. Join Tenant HP Action Program for organized building-wide complaints.
  5. Withhold rent only with proof like inspection report or photos, consulting legal aid first.

In one case at 123 Main St, fines hit $18K from uncorrected mold and elevator violations until abatement kicked in. Use violation photos before and after as evidence in hearings. This approach speeds violation resolution and ensures code compliance.

Preventing Future Issues

Preventing Future Issues

Systematic documentation prevents recurrence of HPD violations and supports property value over time. Owners who verify fixed violations thoroughly avoid surprises during sales or rentals. This approach builds a strong record for NYC HPD compliance.

Proactive owners reduce violations 65% via annual self-audits per NYU Furman Center study. Regular checks on violation status catch issues early. Focus on open violations and closed violations through consistent habits.

Set up a routine to check violations using HPDonline and BIS system. Track BBL number, property address, and violation history. This keeps your building in code compliance and avoids fines.

Combine tenant feedback from 311 with self-inspections. Address class A violations, class B violations, and class C violations promptly. Long-term vigilance ensures building safety.

Documenting Your Verification Process

Create verification binder: NOV + C of C + photos + inspector report + DOB permits = bulletproof compliance record. This documentation system proves fixed violations to HPD or buyers. Start with a digital folder for easy access.

Organize by BBL/Year/Violation# structure. Include timestamped photos showing before and after for each fix. Add certificate of correction and contractor receipts.

  • Digital folder: BBL/Year/Violation# for violation lookup.
  • Timestamped photo protocol: before mold violation, after remediation.
  • Annual compliance checklist: Cover heat, hot water, pests.
  • Google Drive sharing link: For supers or managers.

Use a template for your binder with sections for violation ID, description, and status. Attach engineer certification or architect stamps. This setup handles re-inspections smoothly.

Monitoring Ongoing Compliance

Set Google Alerts for 'HPD violation [BBL]' + weekly HPDonline checks catch 85% of issues before escalation. Regular monitoring spots open DOB violations fast. Stay ahead of tenant complaints via 311.

Follow this monitoring SOP for steady compliance. Bookmark HPDonline for quick violation search. Check BISweb monthly for updates.

  • HPDonline weekly: Track violation status by house number, street name.
  • BISweb monthly: Review Building Information System records.
  • 311 tenant complaint alerts: Respond to service requests.
  • Annual super walk-through: Inspect for hazardous violations.
  • Property management software like AppFolio or Yardi: Log everything.

Build a dashboard template with violation dates, statuses, and deadlines. Watch for abatement orders or vacate risks. This prevents civil penalties and maintains violation resolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Check if HPD Violations Were Actually Fixed?

To verify if HPD violations have been actually fixed, start by obtaining the violation docket number from the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) website or your original notice. Log into the HPDonline portal at hpdonline.nyc.gov, search for the property using the BIN, address, or docket number, and review the violation status. Look for notations like "Corrected," "Dismissed," or "Complied," along with any certification date from a licensed professional if required (e.g., for Class B or C violations). Cross-check with BIS (Building Information System) on the DOB website for related permits or inspections confirming repairs.

What Documents Prove HPD Violations Were Actually Fixed?

Key documents proving HPD violations were actually fixed include the HPD violation dismissal notice, affidavits of correction signed by a licensed technician or engineer, and photographic evidence uploaded during the correction process. In HPDonline, check the "Documents" tab for uploaded proofs like invoices, before-and-after photos, or professional certifications. If a re-inspection occurred, the inspector's report will confirm compliance. Always download and save these records, as they may be needed for disputes or refunds.

How to Use HPDonline to Confirm if Violations Were Actually Fixed?

Access HPDonline at hpdonline.nyc.gov, select "Search Violations," and enter the property's House Number, Street Name, or BIN. Filter by open or closed violations using your docket number. For fixed violations, the status should show "Viol corr" (violation corrected) with a correction date. If it's marked corrected but you're unsure, request a re-inspection via the portal or call 311. Note any "Hazard Level" changes from active to resolved.

Can You Request a Re-Inspection to Check if HPD Violations Were Actually Fixed?

Yes, if you suspect HPD violations weren't actually fixed despite a "corrected" status, request a re-inspection through HPDonline or by calling 311. Provide the docket number and explain your concerns (e.g., visible ongoing issues). HPD inspectors will revisit within 10-20 business days for Class A/B violations. If violations are found uncorrected, the original fine applies, and status reverts to open. Tenants or owners can initiate this at no cost.

What if HPD Shows Violations Fixed but Problems Persist?

If HPDonline indicates violations were actually fixed but issues remain, first verify the correction details and uploader (must be licensed for certain fixes). File a new service request via 311 or NYC311 app, or open a new violation complaint. Dispute the dismissal in HPDonline under "Dispute Violation" if within 20 days of correction. Contact your local elected official or HPD's Borough Service Center for escalation. Document everything with photos timestamped for evidence.

How Long After Correction Can You Check if HPD Violations Were Actually Fixed?

You can check HPD violation status anytime via HPDonline, as records are updated in real-time upon correction uploads or inspections. Corrections typically post within 3-5 business days of submission. For full verification, wait for any required 21-day certification period (for non-hazardous Class A) or re-inspection confirmation. Historical data remains accessible for up to 6 years, allowing checks on whether violations were actually fixed even months later.