Are meet the growing housing demand, there have been new construction projects. This has led to a growing population, with more people finding the city a desirable place to live. 8.5 million people live in NYC, based on current estimates, up from 7.3 million in 1990. This means people across the city may have to live with the inconvenience and construction noise for a while. There are tips to dealing with it, however.
What to do about Construction Noise?What to do about Construction Noise?
Builders need a permit before construction starts and are also required to give neighbors notice. These requirements are typically easily met.
However, they can only work on construction from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. So if you are home during these hours – perhaps working or with your children, you cannot do much. However, you can complain by calling 311 or online if it is outside of the hours.
Aside from the noise, debris is another major sticking point. Governmental regulations from the Department of Environment Protection (DEP) serve to protect New York City’s residents. The construction company needs to prevent the dust from becoming airborne, such as using a tarp. In addition, the demolition of walls requires DEP approval. If you feel there are excessive dust and dirt, you can file a complaint.
If developers are planning significant changes and a variance is needed, they need to reach out to the community, and neighbors have an opportunity to speak out and be heard. Building in a landmark district also requires approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission. You can also use the website to determine where New York City’s landmarks are located.
Dealing with Collateral Construction damageDealing with Collateral Construction damage
Thus far, we have dealt with the inconvenience and health hazards of living in a construction zone. Typically, the damage is minor, and the contractor must carry insurance. However, there may also be property damage from a building on an adjacent property, ranging from minor to as severe as a building collapse. If that is the case, there are protections put in place. In addition, there are various options, such as reaching out to the developer and construction company, complaining to the city, and pursuing litigation.
Keep in mind; that there is strength in numbers. So if some people have similar complaints, you can go en masse or have the board do it.
Final thoughtsFinal thoughts
If you feel the developer or construction company is not acting by the regulations (e.g., outside of the legal hours or not taking the proper precautions), there are several actions you can take. First, assuming you have tried to be cordial by calling the developer and contractor, the city has many resources, including easy-to-fill forms found online and below.
- Jackhammer Noise Complaint: Get Form
- Construction Noise Before/After Hours Complaint: Get Form
- Construction before or after hours Complaint: Get the Form
While there are certain inconveniences you may have to live with; others are apparently out of bounds. This guide can help you if the developer is working outside the limits. And creating construction noise.