As mentioned in our last blog, the DOB recently welcomed 105 newly minted inspectors at the 2017 inspector graduation ceremony. To property owners/managers all over NYC, this thankfully doesn’t mean tougher enforcements….because as you all know, DOB inspections are tough enough. So in honor of the new graduates, here’s a quick review of everything you need to know about DOB inspections.
Q:What is DOB NOW?
A: In an effort to make the inspection process simpler for all those involved, DOB launched an online platform in 2015. You can now schedule virtually all of your inspections online, resulting in a more precise inspection schedule and a much improved tracking and notification system.
To make it even easier, you can also certify qualified objections electronically, thus eliminating the cost of re-inspections entirely. Money that stays in your pocket is always a good thing!
Q: Do I need to schedule my inspections via DOB NOW?
A: All licensed professionals and property owners are now required to use DOB NOW. Snail mail and even email requests are so last century!
Remember, though, that in order to request and schedule an inspection, you must first register for an account. To register, simply visit the DOB NOW Inspections website, click on the link to register for DOB Now: Inspections, then click on “New Users: Register for an Account” and follow instructions until you’re all set up!
Important: Use the email address that is listed in Section 26 of your PW1 filings when registering for DOB NOW: Inspections. We know you keep changing your email address to escape those super annoying spammers, but the city needs to know exactly who you are.
Q: Which areas require development inspections?
A: You are obligated to request inspections in the following areas:
- Electrical Signs
- Fire Suppression
- Boilers
- Construction Cranes & Derricks
- Elevators
- BPP
- Oil Burning Equipment
- Sustainability
- Plumbing
- High Rise Initiative
Q: Are there any other kinds of inspections I can schedule through DOB NOW: Inspections?
A: You can schedule almost any kind of inspection you can think of, even if it isn’t required, including Builders Pavement Plans, Electrical, House Connections and more.
Q: Can anyone request an inspection?
A: Any NY citizen is allowed to register for an inspection, but all licensees, registered architects, and professional engineers are required to request inspections. Note the word exchange in the above sentence; it makes all the difference!
Q: I’m having trouble registering for the DOB NOW: Inspections. What can I do now?
A: No worries; you’re not the only one who is technologically challenged.
To help ease the hassle of inspections for those finding the process too complicated to navigate on their own, the DOB has set up kiosks in each Borough Office in NY. At these locations, you’ll find assistance from the DOB staff. They’ll guide you through the registration process and even help you link our PIN in DOB NOW: Inspections. It’s the perfect solution for those who prefer humans over machines.
Here’s where you’ll find these kiosks:
- The Bronx:
Bronx Borough Office
1932 Arthur Avenue, 5th Floor
Kiosk location: Old Certificate of Occupancy Room
- Brooklyn
Brooklyn Borough Office
210 Joralemon St, 8th Floor
Kiosk location: Application Processing waiting area
- Manhattan
Manhattan Borough Office
280 Broadway, 4th Floor
Kiosk location #1: Construction/Electrical/Plumbing Inspection waiting area
Kiosk location #2: Elevators/Boilers public waiting area
- Queens
Queens Borough Office
120-55 Queens Blvd
Kiosk location: Inspections Counter, 1st Floor
- Staten Island
Staten Island Borough Office
10 Richmond Terrace, 2nd Floor
Kiosk location: 3rd Floor Inspections
Q: Are there any other resources to assist me with using DOB NOW: Inspections?
A: While you can find many resources online, including from the DOB website itself, we’ve recently compiled everything you need to know about all NYC codes and inspections in our Compliance deFINEd, a comprehensive, yet easily understandable overview to help you navigate the complexities of NYC compliance. Download your free copy today! Or just give Jaffa a call to clarify any questions you may have about your compliance or inspections.
