Landlord Fined $48,000 for Violating Stop-Work Order

DOB issued a violation notice to landlord for continuing work while a stop-work order (SWO) was in effect. DOB's inspector saw two workers installing spray foam insulation in an apartment while the SWO was in effect. Landlord claimed that the violation notice wasn't properly delivered. The ALJ ruled against landlord after the DOB inspector testified that the workers told him no one was authorized to accept delivery for the landlord, that he tried to locate the building super who wasn't present, and then affixed the violation notice to the front door of the building. Landlord was fined $48,000. Landlord appealed and lost, again claiming improper service. DOB made a reasonable attempt to deliver the violation notice in person at the building before leaving a copy there. 

M & N Management LLC: ECB App. No. 1200336 (6/27/13) [3-pg. doc.]