Relates to a private right of action concerning sidewalk sheds

◆ The sponsor's argument

Why the sponsor says this is needed

Local Law 11 of 1998 mandates the inspection and repair of facades of buildings over 6 stories in the City of New York. These requirements and their predecessors came in response to documented negligence by building owners that resulted in tragic and preventable deaths. An unintended consequence of these requirements, however, has been the proliferation of sidewalk sheds (commonly referred to as "scaffolding," although scaf- folding is, more specifically comprehensive covering of a building's fagade). Half of New York City's scaffolding-totaling 900,000 feet, or 110 miles' worth-is attributable to the requirements of Local Law 11. For residents and businesses owners on scaffolded blocks, sidewalk sheds are a costly eyesore. They plunge formerly sun-drenched sidewalks into shadow and deter customers. According to one study commissioned by New York City, sidewalk sheds could cost businesses between $4,000 and $9,500 each month. In extreme cases, scaffolding boards provide shelter for drug-dealing and other illegal activity by reducing light and foot traffic. The Upper West Side is uniquely plagued by sidewalk sheds. In April 2024, it was reported that on one stretch of West End Avenue, between W. 107th St. and W. 72nd St., there were 57 sidewalk sheds, the most per-block in the entire City. This legislation gives tenants subject to sidewalk sheds recourse when buildings illegally maintain sidewalk sheds, maintain sidewalk sheds that are public nuisances, and maintain sidewalk sheds for unduly long periods of time without undertaking work necessitating the sidewalk shed. It is long past time for building owners to be accountable for the real human costs of sidewalk sheds, and this legislation will ensure that building owners are incentivized to legally and timely initiate repairs such that sidewalk sheds are only erected and maintained to the extent necessary.

This is the sponsor's own case for the bill, quoted from their memorandum. It is not Agora's description of what the bill does.