New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A04345

Introduced
2/4/25  
Refer
2/4/25  

Caption

Provides that an owner of a residential building which has been deemed unsafe because of an arson related fire shall be charged the actual cost of demolition.

Summary

Bill A04345 amends the administrative code of New York City to establish regulations regarding the demolition costs of residential properties deemed unsafe due to arson. It stipulates that the owner of such a property will be billed for the actual demolition costs, capped at 25% of the total insurance settlement between the owner and their insurance carrier. The bill also introduces provisions that prevent the city from selling the property as a tax lien for a period of ten years if the owner fails to pay the demolition costs, and allows for a twenty-year period to cure any back taxes or present liens, with waived interest fees.

Impact

The bill modifies existing laws related to property liens and demolition costs in New York City, specifically addressing situations where buildings are deemed unsafe due to arson. By capping the demolition costs at a percentage of the insurance settlement, it aims to alleviate the financial burden on property owners. Additionally, the provisions regarding tax liens and the curing of back taxes provide a safeguard for owners of one to three-family residential properties, potentially impacting local government revenue and enforcement practices.

Sentiment

The sentiment around Bill A04345 appears to be mixed, as discussions highlight concerns about the financial implications for property owners while also recognizing the need for safety regulations regarding unsafe buildings. The bill has not yet been voted on, leaving room for further debate and potential amendments before it progresses.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the fairness of charging property owners for demolition costs when the unsafe condition was caused by arson, particularly if the arson was committed by someone other than the owner. Some stakeholders argue that this could impose an undue financial burden on innocent property owners, while others believe it is necessary to ensure accountability and safety in residential areas.

Companion Bills

NY S04108

Same As Provides that an owner of a residential building which has been deemed unsafe because of an arson related fire shall be charged the actual cost of demolition.

Previously Filed As

NY S02592

Provides that an owner of a residential building which has been deemed unsafe because of an arson related fire shall be charged the actual cost of demolition.

NY S04108

Provides that an owner of a residential building which has been deemed unsafe because of an arson related fire shall be charged the actual cost of demolition.

NY S04104

Provides that residential buildings shall be deemed eligible buildings for the green building tax credit.

NY A06739

Provides that residential buildings shall be deemed eligible buildings for the green building tax credit.

NY S0582

Unlawful Demolition of Historical Buildings and Structures

NY H0717

Unlawful Demolition of Historical Buildings and Structures

NY S02134

Relates to requirements for a building owner to refuse to renew a lease under the real estate industry stabilization code; requires the owner of a building to be demolished to prove that such owner has the financial ability to complete demolition of the building.

NY A01867

Relates to requirements for a building owner to refuse to renew a lease under the real estate industry stabilization code; requires the owner of a building to be demolished to prove that such owner has the financial ability to complete demolition of the building.

NY HF2569

A bill for an act relating to recovery of costs for the demolition of abandoned buildings by cities.

NY HB717

Unlawful Demolition of Historical Buildings and Structures:

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.