DOB uncovers 54 illegal conversions after Craigslist investigation

The Department of Buildings has uncovered 54 illegal Craigslist-advertised apartments, after a four-month investigation, during which time inspectors posed as prospective tenants at units seen on the personal listing site. Among the violations observed were illegal single-room-occupancy rentals, fire safety hazards and untested gas lines, often the result of illegal conversions, according to DOB officials. The inspectors have issued vacate orders to 33 of the 54 properties and have issued fines to the rest. Robert LiMandri, commissioner of the DOB, said that counteracting the widespread violations was a top priority for the agency. “Property owners who create illegal conversions must be held responsible for ignoring the law,” LiMandri said. TRD