Summary
To remove an NYC HPD violation, property owners must first understand the type of violation—Class B or Class C—then follow the Commissioner’s Orders, complete necessary remediation steps like containment, HEPA vacuuming, and clearance testing, and finally certify correction with HPD. Professional remediation contractors like Hi-Tech NYC help owners navigate these steps efficiently and ensure long-term compliance.
A housing violation in New York City can feel daunting, but with the right plan, it’s manageable. Let’s break down what these violations mean, how to remediate them, and how to stay compliant.
Understanding HPD Violations: Class B vs. Class C
The difference between Class B and Class C violations often determines how urgently you need to act.
- Class B (hazardous): These include conditions such as mold, pests, or defective plumbing. Owners typically have 30 days to correct them.
- Class C (immediately hazardous): These are the most serious, including lead-based paint hazards in apartments with children under six, lack of heat or hot water, or unsafe structural conditions. These often must be corrected within 24 hours to 21 days depending on severity.
Commissioner’s Orders from HPD will outline specific deadlines and remediation requirements. For instance, new regulations set a lead paint threshold of 3.5 µg/dL blood lead level in children—meaning even lower levels now trigger mandatory abatement.
Table: HPD Violation Classes & Deadlines
| Violation Class | Example Issues | Deadline for Correction |
|---|---|---|
| Class A – Non-hazardous | Minor repairs, broken window guards | 90 days |
| Class B – Hazardous | Mold, pests, leaks | 30 days |
| Class C – Immediately Hazardous | Lead, no heat, unsafe wiring | 24 hours – 21 da |
The Remediation Workflow
How do you actually fix the violation once you receive a notice? The process is structured, and hiring professionals like Hi-Tech NYC’s remediation team ensures compliance.
The general remediation workflow follows three key stages:
- Containment → Prevents contamination spread (dust barriers, sealing off rooms).
- HEPA Vacuuming → High-efficiency vacuum systems remove hazardous dust particles.
- Clearance Testing → Independent testing confirms remediation success before certification.
HPD requires that you submit certification of correction once the remediation and clearance testing are complete. Without certification, fines and liens can stack up quickly.
Beyond Compliance: Long-Term Property Care
The smartest landlords think beyond just clearing violations. Preventive strategies reduce future fines, improve tenant health, and keep property values high.
- Regular Inspections: Routine checks help identify issues before they escalate.
- Upgrades & Modernization: Investing in safer materials and ventilation systems prevents recurring violations.
- Tenant Education: Helping tenants understand safe practices, especially around lead paint or mold prevention, lowers risk.
Interestingly, even outside of real estate, the concept of personalized programs for sustainable health applies. Just as Five Diamond Fitness offers customized strength training for all ages, tailored solutions for property maintenance ensure compliance, safety, and longevity of your building’s health.
If you’ve received an HPD violation or want to protect your property from future fines, reach out to Hi-Tech NYC today for expert guidance and remediation services.
FAQ
1. What is an HPD Commissioner’s Order?
It’s a directive from the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development detailing how and when a violation must be corrected.
2. What are Class C violations?
Class C violations are immediately hazardous, like lead paint or lack of heat, and require urgent correction.
3. What does clearance testing involve?
It’s independent lab testing after remediation to prove that hazards like lead dust or mold are fully removed.
4. What is the new lead threshold in NYC?
The threshold is now 3.5 µg/dL in children’s blood levels, lowered from 5 µg/dL.
5. How do I certify correction with HPD?
After remediation, owners must file certification online or by mail with supporting documentation, showing the violation has been corrected.