top of page
This image depicts a drone shot of New York City taken from the air.

TECHNICAL RESOURCES

Talk to a Licensed Professional Engineer today: 646.481.1861

Search

NYC Boiler Inspection Violation: RCNY 103-01 & 103-05

Writer: Built EngineersBuilt Engineers

Boiler inspections are a critical part of property compliance in New York City. Property owners must adhere to specific regulations outlined in RCNY 103-01 (Low-Pressure Boilers) and RCNY 103-05 (High-Pressure Boilers). Failure to comply with inspection and filing requirements can result in violations and penalties. This guide outlines key requirements, common violations, penalties, and steps to remedy non-compliance.


Two beige boilers in a boiler room with exposed pipes on a concrete wall. Red valves and labels are visible.

Overview of Boiler Inspection Requirements

Low-Pressure Boilers (RCNY 103-01)

  • Must be inspected annually between January 1 and December 31.

  • Reports must be filed with the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) within 14 days of the inspection.

  • Boilers serving six or more families, commercial spaces, or public buildings require compliance.

High-Pressure Boilers (RCNY 103-05)

  • Inspections must be conducted twice a year: once between January 1 – June 30 and again between July 1 – December 31.

  • Reports must be filed with DOB within 45 days of the inspection.

  • Any boiler operating at over 15 psi falls under this category.


Common Violations and Reasons

1. Failure to File an Inspection Report

  • If an inspection is conducted but the report is not filed on time, a violation is issued.

2. Missed Inspection Deadline

  • Property owners who fail to complete the required inspection within the designated time frame receive an automatic violation.

3. Unsafe Boiler Conditions

  • Inspections that reveal leaks, corrosion, missing safety devices, or improper pressure settings may result in violations.

4. Operating Without Certification

  • High-pressure boilers must have a valid certificate to operate. Operating without one leads to penalties.


NYC Boiler Inspection Violation: What You Need to Know

Receiving an NYC Boiler Inspection Violation can be stressful for property owners, but understanding the process can help you take swift corrective action. Violations are typically issued for failure to file inspection reports, missed deadlines, or unsafe conditions. If you receive a violation, you must address the issue promptly to avoid escalating penalties. Proper maintenance, timely inspections, and working with a licensed professional can help prevent these violations and ensure compliance with city regulations.


Penalties and How to Avoid Them

Low-Pressure Boiler Penalties

  • Failure to file an inspection report: $50 per month per boiler, up to $1,000 per year.

  • Missed inspection: Civil penalties starting at $1,000 per boiler.

High-Pressure Boiler Penalties

  • Failure to file an inspection report: Up to $1,000 per occurrence.

  • Operating without certification: Significant fines and possible shutdown orders.

How to Avoid Penalties

  • Schedule inspections well before the deadline.

  • Ensure your licensed professional files the report on time.

  • Address any maintenance issues before inspection to prevent violations.


Remedies for Violations

1. Correct the Issue Promptly

  • If the violation is due to unsafe conditions, schedule repairs immediately and conduct a reinspection.

2. Submit Proof of Compliance

  • Once the issue is resolved, submit proof of correction to DOB.

3. Request a Waiver

  • In certain cases, property owners can apply for a penalty waiver if they can demonstrate valid reasons for non-compliance.

  • Eligibility for Waivers:

    • If the boiler was not in operation during the inspection period and proper documentation is provided.

    • If the property had a change of ownership, and the new owner can prove the violation was inherited.

    • If there was a DOB administrative error, such as a misfiled report or incorrect record.

    • If there were extenuating circumstances, such as documented contractor delays or force majeure events (e.g., natural disasters, city-wide emergencies).

    • If a timely inspection was conducted but there was an unintentional filing error by the inspector or service provider.

4. Pay the Fine and File the Report

  • If a report was not filed on time, pay the assessed fine and ensure future compliance to avoid repeated penalties.

  • Penalties stay on properties until the civil penalties are waived or paid and current inspection reports have been filed.


Staying compliant with NYC boiler inspection laws is essential to avoid fines and ensure safe building operations. Property owners should be proactive in scheduling inspections, filing reports on time, and addressing any boiler-related issues promptly.


If you need assistance with your boiler inspections, filings, or violation resolutions, contact our expert engineering team today. We specialize in ensuring full compliance with NYC regulations, helping you avoid costly penalties.


 
 
 

Comments


Get A Proposal

GET A PROPOSAL

Upload Project Documents
Upload supported file (Max 15MB)
Upload Images
Upload supported file (Max 15MB)

For any inquiries, questions, or recommendations, please call 646.481.1861 or send us an email and we'll get the ball rolling from there.

To apply for a job with BUILT Engineers, please send a cover letter together with your resume.

BUILT Engineers

447 Broadway, 2nd Floor #A200

New York, NY 10013

 

info@builtengineers.com

646.481.1861

© 2021 by BUILT ENGINEERS

Talk to a Licensed Professional Engineer today: 646.481.1861

  • LinkedIn
  • Instagram
bottom of page