Code: NOV (legal requirement)
Description: (Notice of Violation) It is an official document sent by a New York City agency to tell a property owner that something on their property may not follow local laws, rules, or safety codes. It usually describes the problem, gives basic instructions or deadlines to fix it, and may lead to hearings and financial penalties if it is ignored.
Practical Meaning: For a NYC homeowner, this means the city believes something at your property is not safe, legal, or up to code, and you are now officially on notice to deal with it. You usually need to speak with a qualified professional, decide if work is needed, correct the problem, and then send proof of correction so that the record can be closed and future fines can stop.
Where You May See It: You may see this on a paper notice mailed to you, on a violation or summons from DOB or another city agency, or as a line item in online systems such as DOB’s Buildings Information System (BIS) or DOB NOW. You can also see it in HPD records, title reports during sale or refinancing, or in documents from lawyers, banks, or buyers who are checking if your building has open problems with the city.
Why It Matters: If you ignore this document, fines can grow, you can be called to a hearing, and open violations can block you from selling, refinancing, or getting new DOB approvals or Certificates of Occupancy. Fixing the issue, filing the right paperwork, and closing the notice helps protect your money, your legal position, and the safety and value of your property.
Source: More about notice of violation