The skyscrapers of New York’s so-called Billionaires’ Row in Midtown Manhattan have something in common besides eye-watering prices: The city still considers them active construction sites, with a range of safety-related requirements that remain incomplete, sometimes years after occupancy. — The New York Times
All of the eight new Billionaires’ Row towers are reportedly missing final signoff from the Department of Buildings on elevators and plumbing, with seven lacking final signoff on fire sprinklers and standpipes. Five are missing approvals from the fire department. According to The New York Times, there are at least hundreds of buildings across New York City that have similarly not received a final certificate of occupancy, with many operating with temporary certificates. The paper reports that only 3 of the 25 tallest residential buildings have obtained the final certificate.
The increased rise of supertall towers in New York, skinnier and more complex than ever, has exposed the gaps in the city’s inspection and enforcement strategy. Engineers, urban planners, and former employees of the Department of Buildings have expressed concerns over the safety risks that arise as a result of these shortcomings.
The Time’s report comes follows the news that the condo board at 432 Park Avenue, a Billionaires’ Row skyscraper, is suing the developers for $125 million in damages related to construction and design defects in the building.
7 Comments
AISC 360 defines ASD and LFRD in an equation.
How can a building be legally occupied without a c/o?
"with many operating with temporary certificates"
temporary indefinitely?
Temp c of o in nyc is issued so that when a building is ‘substantially’ complete the owner can’t start using it. Most buildings don’t have a ‘final’ and probably never will. And by most buildings I mean new and old, big and small. It’s an admin issue within the building and fire departments far more than problems of any one of the individual buildings.
The first image looks like a matchbook that has been used by a psychopath.
This article (and referenced article) are clearly written by people unfamiliar with construction in New York City. It is very common for buildings that many would consider "complete" to not have their final C/O until years after they've been occupied. Clients and contractors rush to get to the TCO so they can start using the building and charging rent/selling units. After a certain point is is pretty common for both contractors and clients to drag their feet across the finish line. There is little incentive.
Block this user
Are you sure you want to block this user and hide all related comments throughout the site?
Archinect
This is your first comment on Archinect. Your comment will be visible once approved.