Notice of Violation (NOV)

A Notice of Violation, often called an NOV, is a formal notice alleging that a law, code, or regulation has been violated. The notice generally identifies the respondent, alleged condition,…

OATH Hearing

An OATH Hearing is a proceeding before the New York City Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings to determine whether a violation has been proven. Respondents may present evidence, testimony,…

OATH Summons

An OATH Summons is a formal charging document requiring a respondent to answer alleged violations before the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings. An ECB violation is an OATH summons.…

Parapet Inspection

An inspection of a building’s parapet walls to identify loose masonry, cracks, deterioration, or other unsafe conditions. Certain buildings are required to have parapets inspected periodically under the NYC Building…

Partial Stop Work Order (PSWO)

A Partial Stop Work Order is an order issued by the Department of Buildings requiring certain portions of a construction project to cease work while allowing other work to continue.…

Place of Assembly (PA)

A building or space where 75 or more people may gather for purposes such as dining, entertainment, worship, education, or recreation. Many such spaces require a Place of Assembly Certificate…

Plan/Work Application (PW)

A series of Department of Buildings forms used to apply for construction work, permits, and related approvals. Depending on the filing type, different PW forms are used throughout the permitting…

Post Approval Amendment (PAA)

A revision submitted to the Department of Buildings after a construction application has been approved to reflect changes in the scope of work, design, or project information. Depending on the…

Professional Certification (Pro Cert)

A DOB filing process that allows a Registered Architect (RA) or Professional Engineer (PE) to certify that a project complies with applicable codes and zoning requirements, enabling DOB to issue…

Professional Engineer (PE)

A professional licensed by New York State to perform engineering services, prepare and certify construction documents, and file applications with the Department of Buildings. Professional Engineers may also serve as…

Public Assembly Permit

An FDNY permit required for certain places of public assembly, such as restaurants, theaters, houses of worship, and event spaces, where the occupancy meets or exceeds thresholds established by the…

Qualified Exterior Wall Inspector (QEWI)

A New York State licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Registered Architect (RA) who meets DOB requirements to perform façade inspections and file reports under the Façade Inspection & Safety Program…