After killing a bill last week that would have increased DOB site inspections, Governor Spitzer has stepped up to the plate and signed into law two bills introduced by Assemblyman Jim Brennen (at left) that go a long way towards protecting the community from unscrupulous architects and builders. The first is the so-called “Scarano Bill” (after embattled architect Robert Scarano, at right), which enables the DOB to refuse to accept plans from an architect who in the past was proven to have knowingly made false filings with the Buildings Department. The second, known as the “exacavation and shoring” bill, requires contractors to provide proper shoring and other safety measures to protect adjacent properties during excavation; it also required them to carry liability insurance to cover any damage to adjacent properties. A third bill, which would empower the city to place a tax lien on a property for hazardous building violations, passed only in the Assemby.
Spitzer Puts the Kibosh on DOB Inspection Bill [Brownstoner]
Self-Certification & Excavation Bills Signed [Gowanus Lounge]