*** WARNING: INCLEMENT WEATHER ADVISORY ***

BUILDINGS DEPARTMENT ADVISES PROPERTY OWNERS, BUILDERS AND CONTRACTORS TO TAKE PRECAUTIONARY STEPS IN PREPARATION OF TROPICAL STORM DANNY

The National Weather Service forecasts rain and gusty winds for Friday, August 28 though Sunday, August 30 as Tropical Storm Danny approaches the New York City area.  In preparation for the stormy weather, the Buildings Department is reminding all builders, contractors, developers and property owners to secure their construction sites and buildings.  The Buildings Department will be performing random spot-check inspections of construction sites around the city.  If construction sites are not safely secured in preparation for the inclement weather, the Department will take immediate enforcement action with the issuance of violations and Stop Work Orders if necessary.

Property owners must consider the safety of their buildings and construction sites, cranes, suspended and supported scaffolding and any other building appurtenances that may come loose under heavy winds and rain. Structures that have been subject to deferred maintenance or in delicate condition could be at greater risk.

To secure 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
• Store loose tools, oil cans and extra fuses in a tool box
• Secure netting and scaffolding
• Secure exterior construction elevators
• Suspend crane operations and secure crane equipment
• Brace and secure construction fences

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 are unsafe to bring inside, such as gas grills or propane tanks
• Close up and secure patio umbrellas
• Retract and secure awnings
• Clear rooftop drains, gutters and leaders
• Remove aerial antennas and satellite television dishes

New Yorkers are encouraged to call 3-1-1 to report non-compliant conditions or 9-1-1 to report emergencies at construction sites, buildings or properties. New Yorkers who suspect a building or property has been structurally compromised should call 9-1-1.

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.  Buildings Department weather advisories are strictly a courtesy to remind property owners to prepare their properties for inclement weather and cannot be read to suggest that the Department, rather than the property owner, is responsible for maintaining his or her property.

Contact:     Tony Sclafani/Carly Sullivan (212) 566-3473