Has the recent Marie Kondo craze inspired you to tidy up your home? The KonMari method can be applied to the buildings you manage as well by removing unresolved violations and open applications tied to the property.

Here are five important reasons to clean up your building:

5) Ensure open violations do not lead to fines.

Did you know that a failure to respond to violations can result in civil penalties? If your property has outstanding violations, this unpleasant notice might show up on your property:

VIOLATION FOR FAILURE TO CERTIFY CORRECTION OF CLASS 1 VIOLATION EXISTS ON THIS PROPERTY – DOB CIVIL PENALTIES DUE

4) Ensure future tenants are not limited in how they can build out previous tenant spaces.

This one happens all too often. One tenant leaves a space without closing out open applications; suddenly, items such as Place of Assembly and Fire Suppression applications become issues that require action before the building can re-lease the space. Ensure your tenants close out all open applications—particularly any items related to the Certificate of Occupancy—to allow for a smoother transition to a new tenant.

3) Avoid potential delays in future construction projects.

Similar to above, open applications—especially Alteration Type 1 (ALT 1) filings—can prevent future tenants from filing and properly permitting their new build-outs. Make everyone’s life easier by ensuring those applications are closed out.

2) Create a safe environment for your tenants and clients.

This one is self-explanatory. Keep your building safe and free of violations to ensure everyone’s safety (and less legal drama).

1) Obtain a Final Certificate of Occupancy.

One of the most important reasons for keeping a building free of violations and open applications is to secure the Final Certificate of Occupancy, which documents the legal use and/or occupancy of a building.

For any additional questions or comments on closing out open applications and violations please contact Milrose Consultants.