RegWatch computes a risk score (0-100) for every assessed NYC property. The score combines violation history, ECB penalties, outstanding balances, permit activity, and tax delinquency. Here's what the data reveals.
How Risk Scoring Works
Our scoring system weights six factors:
- DOB violations (30%) — open construction code violations from the Department of Buildings
- HPD violations (25%) — housing code violations indicating habitability issues
- ECB penalties (15%) — unpaid Environmental Control Board fines
- Outstanding balances (10%) — unpaid charges on city records
- Active permits (10%) — construction activity can indicate both investment and disruption
- Tax delinquency (10%) — late or unpaid property taxes signal financial distress
What High-Risk Looks Like
Buildings scoring above 70 typically have multiple open violations across agencies, outstanding ECB penalties, and sometimes tax arrears. These properties are more likely to face DOB vacate orders, HPD emergency repairs, or tax lien sales.
Building Types Most at Risk
Older multifamily buildings (pre-1960, 6+ units) consistently have the highest average risk scores. This makes sense — more units mean more opportunities for habitability violations, and older systems require more maintenance.
Mixed-use buildings with ground-floor commercial also score higher than purely residential — commercial tenants generate different violation types (signage, occupancy, fire code) that compound with residential violations.
Check Your Building
Every property search on RegWatch includes a risk score and detailed breakdown. Search any NYC address to see where it stands — free with signup.