HPD Announces Heightened Enforcement for 250 Buildings for Open Violations

The program requires owners to rectify most violations within a four month period or be subject to penalties and possible costs of repairs initiated by HPD. On March 1, 2022, the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) announced 250 buildings will be placed in the City’s Alternative Enforcement Program, which heightens enforcement against distressed buildings with many violations.


HPD Changes to Stricter Definition of Lead-Based Paint, Expecting Increase in Lead Violations

The reduction is expected to lead to an increase of surfaces found with lead and an increase in violations issued. On December 30, 2021, the Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) announced a change in the standard defining what paint counts as “lead-based,” creating the strictest standard in the nation. The new definition amends the concentration of lead found in paint allowed from 1.0 milligrams of lead per square centimeter of paint or similar <Read More>


HPD Announces Settlement Reached with Building Owner Over Harassment and Violations

The landlord had previously topped the NYC Public Advocate’s Worst Landlord Watchlist. On November 22, 2021, the Department of Housing Preservation and Development announced that a settlement had been reached with Jason Korn, a Brooklyn-based landlord over outstanding building violations and tenant harassment in six buildings in Brooklyn and Manhattan. 


HPD Announces Partners for Development of 360 Affordable Units in Stapleton

The project is in the area of the Bay Street Corridor Plan. On October 13, 2021, the Department of Housing Preservation and Development announced the development team for the Stapleton Site A project. The city-owned site located south of Hannah Street in Stapleton, Staten Island, will be transformed into a mixed-use development with 100 percent affordable housing. The site is currently a vacant lot.


HPD Expands “HomeFirst” Down Payment Assistance Program

The program offers up to a $100,000 forgivable loan to cover down portions of down payments or closing costs. On October 4, 2021, the Department of Housing Preservation and Development announced the first expansion of its “HomeFirst” Down Payment Assistance Program. The “HomeFirst” Program offers financial assistance in the form of a forgivable loan for first-time homebuyers in purchasing a home in New York City by helping cover portions of down payments or closing costs.