Unmasking NYC's Building Blunders: A Sleuth's Guide
So, you're curious about the skeletons in your neighbor's building closet? Or maybe you're just a nosy New Yorker with an insatiable appetite for drama. Either way, you've come to the right place. Let's dive into the thrilling world of building violations!
The Big Apple, Big Problems
New York City, a concrete jungle where dreams are made and buildings are...well, sometimes questionable. Every skyscraper, brownstone, and pre-war apartment building has a story to tell, and it's not always a fairy tale. Beneath the glitz and glamour, there's a world of code violations, illegal conversions, and structural sins.
How to Become a Violation Vigilante
1. Master the Art of Google-Fu:
Your first stop? The almighty Google. Type in the building address and the words "DOB violations". You might stumble upon a treasure trove of information. But remember, Google can be a fickle friend, so don't rely on it solely.
2. Embrace the Building Information System (BIS):
This is where the real fun begins. The Department of Buildings (DOB) has a database called BIS that contains a wealth of information about every building in the city. It's like a digital dossier on your neighbor's architectural sins. You can find everything from open violations to construction permits. But beware, BIS can be a bit of a maze, so prepare to spend some quality time with it.
3. HPD Online: A Housing Sleuth's Best Friend:
The Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) department also has a database you can explore. It's like the BIS's edgier cousin, focusing more on housing quality issues like heat, hot water, and lead paint.
4. Get Your Hands Dirty (Figuratively):
If you're feeling adventurous, you can always visit the DOB office in person. It’s like stepping into a real-life episode of Law & Order, but with less drama and more paperwork.
Deciphering the Code
Once you've unearthed a violation, you might be wondering what it actually means. Fear not, intrepid investigator! Many violations are accompanied by plain-language descriptions. But if you're dealing with something truly cryptic, there's always the internet to help you decode the mystery.
How to Turn Your Findings into Action
So, you've discovered a building is up to no good. What now? Well, that depends on your level of involvement. You could be a good Samaritan and inform the building management, or you could take it a step further and contact the DOB. Just remember, playing vigilante can be risky, so proceed with caution.
Remember: While uncovering building violations can be satisfying, it's important to use this information responsibly. Don't be a jerk.
How-To FAQs
- How to find open violations for a specific address? Use the Building Information System (BIS) and search by property address.
- How to understand what a violation means? Look for the violation description in the database or search online for explanations.
- How to report a suspected building violation? Contact the Department of Buildings (DOB) directly.
- How to check if a building has a history of violations? Use BIS to access the building's history.
- How to verify the information found online? Cross-reference information from multiple sources and consider visiting the building in person if necessary.