Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and Department of Buildings Commissioner Patricia J. Lancaster announced today that beginning immediately and for the next 30 days, Buildings personnel will provide a free safety review for outdoor decks and porches in the area bounded by Cross Island Parkway, Bell Boulevard, 35th Avenue/Corbett Road and Northern Boulevard.  Buildings personnel will inspect each deck in the neighborhood and will not issue violations based upon these reviews.  Homeowners will be apprised if there is an unsafe condition. 

“Safety is paramount,” said Mayor Bloomberg.  “Today I have asked the Building’s Department to go door-to-door in Bayside and make sure all resident’s decks are safe.  There will be no questions asked and no violations issued.  We will do everything in our power to make sure we don’t have a repeat of the tragedy that befell the community on Saturday.”

“Inspectors will be available starting today to review all decks and porches in the area to make sure that they are safe,” said Commissioner Lancaster. “Our agency’s personnel are in the community to address any safety concerns residents might have.”

In addition, for the next 30 days any City resident can call 311 and Buildings personnel will be dispatched to look at their deck.  Once again, no violations will be issued or questions asked.  Residents are encouraged to go to the Buildings website, www.NYC.gov/buildings, for general information on the construction permit process.  Tips on the safe and legal way to construct outdoor decks and porches will be available later today.