Thomas Fariello, RA, Acting Commissioner 280 Broadway, New York, NY 10007

Kelly Magee (212) 393-2126

For Immediate Release:

February 19, 2014

** WARNING: INCLEMENT WEATHER ADVISORY ***

DEPARTMENT OF BUILDINGS ADVISES PROPERTY OWNERS TO SAFELY

REMOVE ICE AND SNOW FROM ROOFS IN PREPARATION OF WARM WEATHER

Due to warmer temperatures expected in the New York City area on Wednesday

February 19, 2014 through the upcoming weekend, the Department of Buildings is reminding all

property owners to safely remove ice and snow from roofs, overhangs and awnings. Water from

melting snow that collects on roofs can present a threat to the structural integrity of a building if

the accumulated weight becomes too great. Weak, flat roof structures are especially susceptible

to collapse under the weight of melting snow.

Rain and warmer temperatures can increase the threat of ice dislodging and falling from

buildings. In addition, icicles could form and pose a threat to public safety if not promptly

removed. Property owners have a legal responsibility to consider the safety of their buildings,

and this obligation includes removing ice that may come loose during warm weather.

To secure a building, property owners should take all precautionary measures including

but not limited to the following:

Clear ice and snow from areas around the sites that are used by the public.

Safely remove ice and snow from flat roofs, gutters, and overhangs.

Clean out gutters and roof drains to allow water to drain.

New Yorkers are encouraged to call 311 to report non-compliant conditions or 911 to

report emergencies at construction sites or buildings. New Yorkers who suspect a building or

property has been structurally compromised should call 911.

Under §28-301.1 of the Administrative Code of the City of New York, property owners

are legally obligated to maintain their properties in a safe condition. Department of Buildings

weather advisories are strictly a courtesy to remind property owners to prepare their properties

for inclement weather and cannot be read to suggest that the Department, rather than the property

owner, is responsible for maintaining his or her property.

-30-

build safe|live safe bn