Code: SWO (Enforcement status)
Description: (Stop Work Order). It is an order from the NYC Department of Buildings that tells a person or contractor to stop construction or renovation work at a property until problems are fixed.
Practical Meaning: For a NYC homeowner, an SWO means that most or all construction work at the property must stop until the violations are corrected and DOB officially lifts the order. If work continues while the SWO is still active, DOB can issue extra violations and civil penalties.
Where You May See It: On a DOB notice posted at the property, in BIS or DOB NOW, in an enforcement case, or in emails from your contractor, architect, or expediter.
Why It Matters: An SWO can delay a project, increase costs, and block refinancing or sale until it is resolved, because lenders and buyers are cautious when active enforcement is on the property. It also usually means DOB found a serious safety or code problem, so ignoring it can lead to higher fines and more strict inspections.