Code: Inspection Warrant (Court access order)
Description: (Inspection Warrant) is a court order that allows a city inspector to enter a property when the owner or occupants did not give voluntary access after a notice to inspect. This warrant is usually requested for serious safety concerns, such as illegal conversions or dangerous conditions, and may involve NYPD assistance during the inspection.
Practical Meaning: This means a judge has already reviewed the city’s request and given legal permission for inspectors, often with police, to enter your property even if you do not open the door. At this stage, refusing access or interfering with the inspection can lead to extra penalties, contempt of court, or faster escalation to vacate orders and fines.
Where You May See It: Housing court papers, DOB or HPD legal documents, enforcement case files, communications from your attorney, references in DOB illegal conversion or enforcement notices.
Why It Matters: An Inspection Warrant means the case has moved beyond a simple request and is now in formal enforcement, with higher risk of violations, vacate orders, and legal costs if serious problems are found. It also limits your ability to argue about access later because the court has already ordered entry, so you should work closely with your attorney and design professional before and during the inspection.