Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Department of Buildings (DOB) Commissioner Ahmed Tigani launched the city’s No-Penalty Inspection Program. From June 1 to June 10, New York City homeowners and small property owners can access free visual inspection of their buildings.
Photo by Lloyd Mitchell.
To commemorate National Homeownership Month, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Department of Buildings (DOB) Commissioner Ahmed Tigani launched the city’s No-Penalty Inspection Program. From June 1 to June 10, New York City homeowners and small property owners can access free visual inspection of their buildings.
By calling 311, property owners can schedule a free inspection and guidance on repairs, safety requirements, permits and any maintenance needs they have. Mamdani’s administration says DOB inspectors will provide resources to help owners address issues before they are penalized — the idea is to prevent small issues from becoming expensive emergencies.
“Too often, homeowners only hear from government when something has gone wrong and a fine is already on the way,” Mamdani said about the announcement.
“We’re working to elevate programs that have long existed and this one is about maling city government a partner, not a punisher. By providing free inspections and expert guidance, we’re helping New Yorkers keep their homes safe, avoid unnecessary costs and protect one of the most important investments they will ever make.”
The No-Penalty Inspection Program builds on the Mamdani administration’s efforts to strengthen pathways for NYC residents to become homeowners. Last week, Mamdani announced his administration’s new housing plan “Block by Block” which aims to expand programs to help residents stay in their homes and make needed repairs.
“At the Department of Buildings, we know that dealing with building repairs and regulations can sometimes feel stressful or complicated, which is why initiatives like our ‘No Penalty Inspection Program’ are designed to give New Yorkers straightforward, expert guidance in a respectful and transparent way,” said DOB Commissioner Tigani.
“DOB is working every day to make it easier for owners to properly maintain their properties and navigate the building process with confidence. Before hiring a construction professional, give us a call first and let our team provide you free expert guidance on your next home repair project.”
During the inspections, DOB staff will talk to homeowners about any building concerns and tell them how to get additional assistance from DOB or other city agencies.
“For property owners already struggling with high insurance and utility costs, these free inspections offer a unique opportunity to assess the state of their properties without the fear of large fines or penalties,” said Housing and Preservation and Development (HPD) Commissioner Dina Levy.
“As we work with owners to reduce barriers to needed repairs, we hope they will take advantage of this program. Not only do free, no-penalty inspections reduce stress and costs for owners, they also keep New Yorkers safe in their homes.”
Through the free program, DOB inspectors will examine: decks and patios, retaining walls, facades for buildings under six stories, boilers, gas piping systems, unregistered private elevator devices, sidewalk vaults and business signs.
New Yorkers can schedule an inspection by calling 311, which will connect them with the appropriate DOB unit.
