For Immediate Release
February 16, 2018

*** WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY ***

DEPARTMENT OF BUILDINGS ADVISES PROPERTY OWNERS AND CONTRACTORS TO TAKE PRECAUTIONARY STEPS DURING WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS

In advance of inclement weather, which may include snow, ice, and wind gusts in excess of 25 miles per hour, the Department is reminding all builders, contractors, and property owners to secure their properties from hazardous conditions. If sites are not safely secured, the Department will take enforcement action with the issuance of violations if necessary.

The Department suggests consulting a professional to advise how to secure construction sites and buildings if necessary.

To safeguard construction sites, builders, contractors and developers should take all precautionary measures including but not limited to the following:

• Tie down and secure material and loose debris at construction sites.
• Cover electrical equipment from exposure to the weather.
• Secure netting, scaffolding, and sidewalk sheds.
• Clear icicles and vulnerable snow masses from sidewalk sheds and supported and suspended scaffolds.
• Clear roofs, overhangs and gutters of melting snow and ice.
• Brace and secure construction fences.
• Call 911 if there is an emergency on a construction site.

To secure a building, property owners should take all precautionary measures including but not limited to the following:

• Bring inside loose, lightweight objects such as lawn furniture, potted plants, garbage cans, garden tools, and toys.
• Anchor objects that would be unsafe outside, such as gas grills or propane tanks.
• Secure and clear roofs, awnings, umbrellas and overhangs of melting snow and ice.
• Ensure gutters are clear of debris to allow drainage.
• Secure retractable awnings.

In the event that a condition develops that poses an imminent hazard to the public, building owners should immediately take precautions to protect the surrounding area.

New Yorkers are encouraged to call 311 to report dangerous conditions, or 911 to report emergencies at construction sites or buildings. New Yorkers who suspect a building or property has been structurally compromised should call 911.

Under §28-301.1 of the Administrative Code of the City of New York, property owners are legally obligated to maintain their properties in a safe condition. Department winter weather advisories are strictly a courtesy to remind property owners to secure their properties and cannot be read to suggest that the Department, rather than the property owner, is responsible for maintaining his or her property for severe weather and cannot be read to suggest that the Department, rather than the property owner, is responsible for maintaining his or her property.

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