Getting Certificate of Correction – 2001 violation fine paid work done to fix

Hi. Thank you, in advance, to those who give me advice. I am about to purchase a property in Bed Stuy as-is. There is an open violation (details pasted below), the fine was paid, however still needs a Certificate of Correction. Violation Info from BIS (ECB Violation): “work without a permit: work noted: installation of 3pc bathroom, kitchen with stove, partition wall creating 2 room in the cellar, remove and replacement of partition wall at first floor front, public hall. sug” severity: non-hazardous hearing status: in violation penalty balance due: $0.00 Scheduled Hearing Date: 07/16/2001 Challenge is that the cellar is clear now. The current owner purchased it last year, and, is essentially flipping it as-is, for a good profit. He does not want to clear existing violations, and is not willing to engage in trying to get the documentation regarding whenever work was done to remove aforesaid illegal construction. Property has a 2-family C of O, and I intend to live in one unit, rent second. We will need to do some cosmetic work (redo floors, install appliances and cabinets in kitchens, redo windows), and are on a pretty tight budget. Here are my questions: 1\. Given what we want to do to get place ready for move-in, should we try to get the old violation removed first (while I dont think we need permits for this cosmetic work, is there a stop-work-order risk from DOB anyway) 2\. I do want to play by rules, am just not sure if worth opening can of worms re. this old violation. 3\. For those who advice I should address violation first/soon after purchase: 3.A: Is this something I can address simply by filling out form AEU2? My concern here is that while I can submit pictures, and give notarized statements saying none of the structures associated w violation exist in cellar, I cannot show documentation that this was done (receipts, etc) because this was done several owners ago, and I just cannot get that info. One more pc of evidence I could add is have architect who executed my inspection sign/notarize the inspection report addressing this violation and mentioning that these structures dont exist 3.B: Is this something I should try to find an expeditor for? How much would they charge, and what would they do different (vs. me submitting the AEU2 form with photos, notarized statement, etc) Finally, two bonus items: there are two HPD violations as well – any thoughts on best way to tackle these – also via expeditor? How easy/convoluted would it be to address, as, seems like, neither of below would be relevant in case of new ownership… Dec 2000 – 27-2005, 2007 adm code remove the illegal fastening double cylinder key opperated lock at entrance door to building. NOV SENT Feb 2015 – 27-2107 adm code owner failed to file a valid registration statement with the department as required by adm code §27-2097 and is therefore subject to civil penalties, prohibited from certifying violations, and denied the right to recover possession of premises for nonpayment of rent until a valid registration statement is filed.

go see scott schnall. his advice will be free (if you can put up with his jokes). he will charge you when he does whatever work needs doing.