New Rochelle, NY Property Maintenance: Property Blight (2026)

Section 111-20A of the New Rochelle Building Code declares that all buildings or structures that endanger the health, safety or welfare of the public shall be deemed to be unsafe buildings or structures, and specifically flags a completely vacant building, unguarded or open at door or window or roof, as a fire hazard and unsafe within the meaning of the code. The Building Official has power to examine any building reported as dangerous, structurally unsafe or a fire hazard and to make written findings. When a building is found unsafe, Section 111-20C requires the Building Official to serve notice on the owner and any other interested parties, personally or by certified mail, describing the unsafe condition and ordering repair or removal; if mailed, a copy is also posted on the premises.

Section 111-20D gives the owner 30 days from the mailing date to begin the repair or removal. A copy of the notice is filed with the Westchester County Clerk under Section 111-20E, where it operates like a notice of pendency against the property for up to a year. The owner is entitled to a hearing under Section 111-20F before the matter proceeds. If the owner fails, neglects or refuses to act within the 30 days, Section 111-20G authorizes the City to enter the property and remove the structure or make the necessary repairs itself, and Section 111-20H assesses all City costs, including removal costs, against the land.