The Department of Buildings (DOB) issues a Declaration of Emergency ordering the owner to demolish a structurally unsafe building. If the owner fails to take this action, HPD' s Demolition Unit may be called on to abate the hazardous conditions. Buildings not declared emergencies, but which are vacant, open, and accessible, may be sealed based on a DOB order by HPD's Emergency Repair Bureau to protect the public and the property. In both cases, HPD, through the Department of Finance, will bill the owner for the cost of the demolition or sealing. If the owner fails to pay the bill within 60 days, a lien is placed on the property.
If you wish to report a building which may be structurally unsound, call the City's Citizen Service Center at 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. (311 can be accessed outside of New York City by dialing (212) NEW YORK). You may also request the sealing of unsecured vacant buildings by calling 311.