Landlord Fined $600 for Not Conducting Sprinkler Inspection and Testing

The Fire Department issued a violation notice to landlord for failing to conduct required inspection or testing of the building's residential sprinkler system. Landlord stated that she didn't know that FDNY would be conducting an inspection and was unaware of the sprinkler testing requirements. The ALJ ruled against landlord and fined her $600. Landlord appealed and lost, claiming that the amount of the fine was unfair. ECB noted that landlord presented no defense to the violation and that the amount of penalties was set by FDNY rule. ECB had no authority to reduce or eliminate penalties.

FDNY v. Zhu: ECB App. No. 2100834 (7/22/21) [2-pg. document]