Compliance Issues

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Writing, book and notebook by doctor or healthcare professional with a prescription or making notes in an office. Hand, closeup and medical worker or employee in compliance with schedule
Writing, book and notebook by doctor or healthcare professional with a prescription or making notes in an office. Hand, closeup and medical worker or employee in compliance with schedule

Ownership in a cooperative building in New York City comes with the ​responsibility to adhere to a complex web of local laws. Here, we'll delve into ​some key compliance issues NYC co-ops face and the potential ramifications ​of non-compliance.


Some Important NYC Local Laws for Co-ops:


  • Local Law 11 (FISP): This law mandates regular inspections of building ​exteriors (facades) to identify and address safety hazards.


  • Local Law 33 (Energy Efficiency Grade): This law focuses on energy ​efficiency scores need to be conspicously displayed in the building.


  • Local Law 97 (Energy Efficiency Retrofits): This law, enacted in 2019, focuses ​on reducing greenhouse gas emissions in large buildings. It sets aggressive ​energy reduction targets that co-ops must achieve over a ten-year period. ​Non-compliance can led to significant fines and even the inability to sell or ​refinance apartments.


  • Other Areas of Concern: Boilers, Elevators and Parking Structures.
Writing, book and notebook by doctor or healthcare professional with a prescription or making notes in an office. Hand, closeup and medical worker or employee in compliance with schedule

Ramifications of Non-Compliance:


Beyond the financial penalties, non-compliance with local laws can have ​several negative consequences for co-ops:


  • Safety Risks: Overlooking facade repairs or failing to implement energy ​efficiency measures can pose safety risks to residents.


  • Increased Insurance Costs: Non-compliant buildings may face higher ​insurance premiums due to the perceived liability.


  • Decreased Property Value: A poorly maintained building with a history of ​non-compliance can become less desirable to potential buyers, impacting ​property values.


  • Loss of Financing Options: Banks and lenders might be hesitant to offer ​mortgages or refinancing options for apartments in non-compliant ​buildings.


  • Harassment by the City: Persistent non-compliance can invite scrutiny and ​intervention from city agencies, leading to a barrage of violations and fines.
Writing, book and notebook by doctor or healthcare professional with a prescription or making notes in an office. Hand, closeup and medical worker or employee in compliance with schedule

Maintaining Compliance:


Complying with NYC local laws is important for a safe, functional, and valuable ​co-op. Here are some steps co-ops can take:


  • Establish a Compliance Committee: This committee can research local ​laws, develop a compliance plan, and track progress.


  • Schedule Regular Inspections: Proactive inspections can identify potential ​problems before they escalate into major issues.


  • Budget for Maintenance and Upgrades: Allocate sufficient funds in the ​annual budget for necessary repairs and upgrades to ensure compliance ​with Local Laws like 11 and 31.


  • Seek Professional Help: Consult with qualified engineers, architects, and ​energy auditors to develop a strategy for achieving Local Law 97 targets.


  • Communicate with Residents: Keep residents informed about compliance ​requirements and the importance of adhering to them.
Writing, book and notebook by doctor or healthcare professional with a prescription or making notes in an office. Hand, closeup and medical worker or employee in compliance with schedule

To Learn More About The Local Laws Please See the Links Below:


  • Local Law 11 of 1998 - Periodic inspection of the exterior walls and ​appurtenances of Buildings greater than six stories in height.


  • Local Law 33 of 2018 -Energy efficiency scores and grades shall be ​obtained, assigned and disclosed in accordance with this law.


  • Local Law 97 of 2019 - Under this law, most buildings over 25,000 square ​feet are required to meet new energy efficiency and greenhouse gas ​emissions limits as of 2024, with stricter limits coming into effect in 2030.


  • DOB Local Laws - A comprehensive site with the list of Local Laws as ​approved by the City Council.


To Learn More About the Current and True Status of Your Investment:


  • DOB NOW Public Portal - When searching by address you must enter the ​number as xx-xx and the full street name, e.g., Parkway, not Pkwy
Writing, book and notebook by doctor or healthcare professional with a prescription or making notes in an office. Hand, closeup and medical worker or employee in compliance with schedule

By prioritizing compliance with local laws, co-ops can ensure a safe, ​sustainable, and valuable living environment for their residents. Remember, a ​proactive approach is key to avoiding costly ramifications and fostering a ​healthy and responsible co-op community.


While it is important to demand that we live in a safe and healthy environment, ​it is also important to be vigilant and escalate any matters that are not ​handled timely and with due care.


If you would like to file a complaint: