Removing Plumbing Violations in NYC.
Plumbing violations occur when plumbing systems in a building fail to meet the standards set by the New York City Plumbing Code or other regulations enforced by the Department of Buildings (DOB). Violations often result from improper installations, outdated systems, or unpermitted work performed by a previous contractor.
Common causes of plumbing violations include improper drain slopes, missing or inaccessible clean-outs, use of incorrect fittings or materials, and insufficient clearance around fixtures. Because DOB violations may accrue daily penalties, owners are encouraged to correct and certify their removal promptly.
Costs and Time Frame
- Cost: Removal of a plumbing violation typically costs between $700 and $3,000 or more. The exact amount depends on the complexity of the violation, required repairs, application fees, inspection fees, and the plumber’s rates.
- Time Frame: The process can take one to five weeks, depending on the urgency of the violation, contractor availability, and DOB inspection schedules. Immediate attention is required if the violation carries daily penalties.
To remove a plumbing violation, the property owner must:
- Hire a Licensed Master Plumber (LMP). Only a licensed professional can correct plumbing-related issues and file the necessary paperwork with the DOB.
- File a Correction. The LMP must submit a Limited Alteration Application (LAA) or a Plumbing Application (PW1) through DOB NOW: Build, depending on the scope of corrective work.
- Schedule an Inspection. After the corrective work is completed, the DOB will perform an inspection to verify compliance with current code requirements.
- Obtain a Sign-Off. Once the violation is cleared, the DOB updates the property’s record to show the violation as “Resolved.”
The majority of plumbing code violations in NYC area are due to incorrect or outdated work by a previous contractor. Many of the city’s older buildings have been renovated several times, and many potential plumbing problems may have been put in place before you owned the building. But because you are currently responsible for the building being up to code, you need to pay attention to:
- Improper Drain Slopes – Most drains are sloped so that gravity can naturally carry waste water away. If the drain slope is too shallow, water may not drain properly, leading to backups and potential flooding.
- Too Few Clean-Outs – A clean-out provides access to plumbing for maintenance. There needs to be at least one every 100 feet, and whenever there is a direction change in the line that is greater than 45 degrees.
- Inaccessible Clean-Outs – Even if you have the right number of clean-outs, they cannot be obstructed. This includes placement behind a physical block, in a flood area, or near an electrical box.
Related terms
- building code
- Licensed Master Plumber
- drain slope
- Limited Alteration Application
- piping
- clean-outs
- renovation
- expeditor
- toilets
Plumbing Violations Removal
Have something to say? Fill out the form to leave your comment on this entry. Your input is important to us
