If you’ve just opened a NYC DOB violation letter, it can feel stressful—but there is a clear, step‑by‑step way to handle it and protect your home and wallet. Here’s what to do next:
Step 1: Read Your Letter Carefully
Find the violation code (like “LL11/98” or “ECB”) and note the deadline for correcting the issue. These two pieces of information are critical—they tell you what’s wrong and how much time you have to fix it.
Step 2: Check Our Glossary
Not sure what the DOB terms mean? Visit our Violation Codes Hub, where not know codes or legal terms are explained in plain English. Many homeowners find that looking up just 2–3 key terms clears up most of their confusion.
Step 3: Take Action
Once you understand your violation, you have options:
- Look up your violation in the official NYC systems (BIS* and DOB NOW*: Safety) to confirm the violation class, any civil penalties, and hearing dates, because older violations may appear only in BIS while newer ones show up in DOB NOW. Remember: an OATH summons remains active until it is dismissed through an OATH hearing or resolved through the COC review process.
- Fix it yourself if it’s a minor issue (like replacing a smoke detector or cleaning up debris). Correct it yourself only when no permit, licensed trade, inspection, or specialized work is required.
- Hire a licensed professional if the work requires permits or specialized expertise (like electrical, gas, structural, or façade work).
- After the work is done, submit a Certificate of Correction through DOB’s Administrative Enforcement Unit (AEU) using the DOB NOW: Safety portal so the violation actually clears from city records, not just “gets a fine paid“.
- Contact us for help if you’re still unsure what to do. Our team can walk you through your specific situation in plain English, not legal jargon.
Important for 2026: As of December 15, 2025, all Certificate of Correction (COC) requests must be submitted through DOB NOW: Safety, not through older paper or BIS Options workflows. Existing COC requests filed in BIS Options before that date continue in that system, but any new COC must start in DOB NOW: Safety.
This guide is general information, not legal advice; deadlines and requirements depend on the specific violation or summons
Ready to get started? Schedule a 15-Minute Free Consultation to talk through your NYC DOB violation, or keep reading below for real-world examples from NYC homeowners who’ve successfully resolved their violations.