Navigating New York City’s complex building regulations requires a clear understanding of your property’s history and compliance status. The Department of Buildings’ Building Information System (BIS) is an essential tool for property owners, developers, engineers, and construction professionals seeking detailed records on permits, violations, inspections, zoning, and more.
This guide breaks down exactly how to access BIS NYC DOB records, interpret what you find, and take the right steps to ensure your property is compliant and problem-free.
What is the Building Information System (BIS)
The Building Information System (BIS) is an online property database maintained by the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB). BIS serves as a centralized record for virtually every building and lot in NYC, allowing the public to access real-time information on:
- Property profiles
Each building or lot in NYC has a unique profile in BIS that includes its address, borough-block-lot (BBL) number, BIN (Building Identification Number), construction classification, number of floors, occupancy type, and zoning designation. This section helps users confirm key details about a property’s physical and legal characteristics. - Permits and job filings
BIS shows active and historical permit applications for construction, demolition, plumbing, elevator, and other types of work. You can see the permit number, issue date, status (approved, revoked, etc.), and type of work. This is critical for checking whether past work was legally permitted and completed correctly. - Violations and complaints
The system lists violations issued by the DOB, such as illegal conversions, unsafe conditions, or failure to file required documents. Each entry includes the violation number, status (open/closed), and description. BIS also lists 311 complaints that prompted DOB inspections. - Inspections and compliance
Inspection results tied to permits and violations are logged in BIS. This includes boiler, elevator, façade, and general construction inspections. The record indicates whether the inspection passed or failed, and whether a reinspection is needed. - Certificates of Occupancy (COs)
BIS displays existing and historical COs, which confirm the legal use of a building or space. Without a valid CO, many property transactions and uses may not be permitted. COs also show any changes in use or occupancy over time. - Zoning and code information
BIS links to zoning maps and shows which zoning resolution applies to your property. This is key when planning new development or changes to the building’s use, to avoid zoning violations.
You can access BIS at https://a810-bisweb.nyc.gov/bisweb/bsqpm01.jsp.
NYC Compliance Rules You Must Know
BIS reflects a wide range of New York City compliance requirements, including:
- NYC Building Code and NYC Construction Codes
These codes govern all construction and maintenance in NYC, from structural integrity to fire safety. BIS shows if permits and work conform to the current code. - Local Laws like LL 196, LL 97, and LL 11
BIS helps track compliance with major local laws:- LL 196 (site safety training)
- LL 97 (building emissions)
- LL 11 (façade inspections for buildings over six stories)
- FDNY regulations and special use permits
Fire Department sign-offs are required for certain work like sprinkler installations, fire alarms, and storage of hazardous materials. BIS reflects whether these have been filed and approved. - Energy code compliance and benchmarking filings
Some properties are required to file annual energy use reports or benchmarking data. BIS can indicate if these have been properly submitted.
Common Mistakes Property Owners Make with BIS
Despite the availability of BIS, many NYC property owners and managers run into issues like:
- Overlooking open violations
It’s common to assume a violation is resolved just because the work was done, but unless it’s officially signed off in BIS, it remains open and can trigger fines or halt permits. - Failing to track expired permits or lapse in CO
Permits must be renewed before they expire. If not, they may need to be filed all over again. Likewise, lacking a valid CO can stop lease agreements, refinancing, or changes in occupancy. - Misinterpreting permit or inspection status
Terms like “Permit Issued,” “Job Approved,” or “Sign Off Required” may be confusing. Without understanding the process, owners might mistakenly think work is complete when further steps are still needed. - Not checking for active Stop Work Orders (SWOs)
SWOs issued due to unsafe conditions or illegal work are shown in BIS, but many users don’t realize they’re in place until enforcement actions begin.
Best Practices to Stay Compliant Using BIS
To get the most value from BIS and maintain compliance:
- Regularly monitor your property profile
Set a calendar reminder to review your property’s BIS records at least quarterly, especially for larger portfolios. - Address violations promptly
Review violation details carefully and retain qualified professionals to certify correction with DOB. Only then will the violation be considered resolved. - Verify contractor filings and status updates
Make sure your contractor files permits correctly and signs off inspections to keep jobs moving. You can check status updates under each job number in BIS. - Ensure COs are updated after renovations
If you’ve changed the layout, use, or occupancy of your building, you must update your Certificate of Occupancy. Failing to do so is a common legal liability. - Cross-check with DOB NOW system
BIS is being phased out in favor of DOB NOW for many job types. For recent filings, check both platforms to ensure full coverage.
How VetraCheck Helps You Navigate DOB Records
At VetraCheck, we specialize in making DOB compliance stress-free. Our services include:
- Comprehensive BIS and DOB NOW audits
- Violation resolution and permit close-out services
- CO recovery and legal use assessments
- Due diligence reporting for real estate transactions
- Engineering support for DOB compliance issues
Our team stays current with every DOB bulletin, rule change, and system update, ensuring your property records are accurate and up to date. With VetraCheck, you don’t have to second-guess your property’s compliance status — we do the digging, analysis, and resolution for you.
Real-World Scenario
A Manhattan co-op recently hired VetraCheck after learning of an open ECB violation during a refinancing review. While the board assumed the issue had been resolved years ago, BIS showed the violation as still open, with no certificate of correction filed. VetraCheck immediately retrieved the original violation details, coordinated with an architect to certify correction, and filed all necessary paperwork. The violation was cleared within two weeks, allowing the refinance to proceed on time.
Frequently Asked Questions About BIS NYC DOB
How do I find my building’s BIS records?
Go to NYC BIS Property Profile, enter your address, or use the borough-block-lot (BBL) number.
What’s the difference between BIS and DOB NOW?
BIS contains older and ongoing property data, while DOB NOW is the newer system used for digital filings and records. Both systems are currently active and often must be checked together.
Is BIS updated in real time?
Not exactly. While many updates appear quickly, some changes (like inspection results or sign-offs) may take several days to post.
Can I clear a violation myself through BIS?
No, resolution typically requires hiring a licensed professional to correct the issue and certify the correction with DOB.
Why is my permit marked as “expired” even though work is done?
Permits must be closed out and signed off through inspections. An expired status means final steps weren’t completed or documented.
Let VetraCheck Be Your DOB Records Partner
Understanding your BIS NYC DOB records is essential to maintaining legal, financial, and operational control over your property. VetraCheck offers expert assistance with compliance, filings, and records analysis so you can focus on what matters most — managing your property and planning your next move with confidence.
Need help reviewing your BIS records or resolving violations?
Contact VetraCheck today for a full compliance audit and peace of mind.
