When New York City’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) issues a violation—especially those involving lead-based paint or hazardous materials like asbestos—property owners are on a tight timeline to correct the issue. This guide offers a step-by-step breakdown of the DOHMH violation correction process, including requirements, recommended timelines, and technical considerations. We’ll also highlight how licensed environmental contractors like Hi-Tech Environmental Remediation help navigate this process seamlessly.
Overview of DOHMH Protocols and Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Issuing Agency | NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) |
| Common Violations | Lead-based paint, mold, pest infestations, asbestos exposure |
| Timeline for Correction | 21 calendar days from receipt of the Commissioner’s Order (for lead) |
| Documentation Required | XRF lead paint reports, clearance dust wipes, contractor affidavits |
| Resolution Method | Use of EPA-certified firms like Hi-Tech Environmental Remediation |
Pro Tip: Failing to meet DOHMH deadlines can result in escalated enforcement, including civil penalties or HPD liens.
Correction Workflow vs. NYC Regulations
| Violation Correction Process | NYC DOHMH Regulation Reference |
|---|---|
| 1. Inspection by DOHMH or Tenant Complaint | NYC Health Code §173.14 (Lead-based paint hazards) |
| 2. Receipt of Commissioner’s Order to Correct Hazard | Must respond within 21 days for lead hazards or by the specified abatement date |
| 3. Hire a Licensed Contractor | Must be EPA-certified under RRP rules and follow Local Law 1 of 2004 |
| 4. Perform Safe Work Using Lead-safe Methods | Wet scraping, plastic containment, HEPA vacuuming per DOH protocols |
| 5. Conduct Post-Abatement Clearance Testing | Submit XRF reports, dust wipes, and affidavits to DOHMH via their online portal or mail |
| 6. Submit Proof of Compliance | Submit XRF reports, dust wipes, affidavits to DOHMH via their online portal or mail |
| 7. Official Closure Notice Issued by DOHMH | Case closed if all documentation meets NYC Health Code requirements |
Step-by-Step: From Violation to Closure
1. Initial Inspection and Violation Issued
- Violations typically stem from:
- Tenant complaints
- Routine inspections
- Child’s blood lead level report via medical provider
- DOHMH issues a Commissioner’s Order to Correct Lead-Based Paint Hazards
- Timeline: 21 days from the date of issue
2. Hire a Certified Abatement Contractor
- The contractor must be:
- EPA-certified for lead removal
- Licensed in NYS for asbestos, if applicable
- Hi-Tech Environmental Remediation is fully qualified for lead, asbestos, and mold remediation in NYC.
- Ensure contractor:
- Provides a detailed remediation plan
- Uses containment, HEPA vacuums, and safe disposal methods
3. Perform Abatement Work
- Follow NYC DOHMH best practices, including:
- Use of XRF analyzer for lead paint detection
- Wet scraping and sealing
- Air monitoring if asbestos or mold is also involved
- Work areas must be:
- Isolated with plastic sheeting
- Sealed and cleaned daily with HEPA vacuums
4. Clearance Testing
- Performed by an independent third-party (not your contractor)
- Requires:
- Dust wipe samples
- Lab analysis from an EPA-accredited lab
- Results must show:
- Lead dust levels below NYC threshold (e.g., 10 µg/ft² for floors)
5. Submit Documentation to DOHMH
- All submission packets must include:
- XRF report with room-by-room hazard inventory
- Clearance dust wipe lab results
- Affidavit of completion by certified contractor
- Submit online via DOHMH portal or in-person by appointment
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
⚠️ Frequent Errors That Delay Violation Closure:
- Uncertified contractors performing abatement
- Missing clearance reports
- Dust wipe testing was done by the same firm that performed remediation
- Incomplete documentation submission
💡 Trusted Resources
- Hi-Tech Environmental Remediation – Certified contractor specializing in DOHMH and HPD violation removal
- Manhattan Lead – Lead inspection and clearance testing
- NYC.gov Lead Info – Official DOHMH lead hazard guide
Why Choose Hi-Tech Environmental Remediation
- Licensed for all NYC environmental remediation needs
- Experienced with HPD, DOHMH, and NYS regulatory processes
- Fast mobilization in Manhattan, Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island
Services Include:
- Lead paint removal
- HPD & DOHMH violation clearance
- Asbestos pipe and tile removal
- Popcorn ceiling asbestos abatement
- Mold remediation
Contact Hi-Tech Today for DOHMH Violation Support
Let the professionals handle the paperwork, testing, remediation, and regulatory compliance.
👉 Visit https://hitechnyc.com or call to schedule a free consultation.