NYC Boiler Inspection Violation: RCNY 103-01 & 103-05
- Built Engineers
- Mar 26
- 3 min read
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.
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.