Grounds for suspension of architects and engineers expanded. On January 10, 2007, the Department of Buildings adopted changes to its self-certification program, expanding grounds for exclusion and suspension of participating architects and engineers and authorizing the Commissioner of Buildings to immediately suspend participants to prevent a serious public safety threat. Included within the new grounds for suspension were cases of fraud, improper use of licenses or professional stamps, and negligence or incompetence in relation to Building’s rules and the zoning resolution.

Two speakers attended Buildings’ hearing on the proposed rules, both in opposition. Buildings also received six written comments, all opposed. After the comment period, Buildings made only one additional change, slightly altering the definition of engineers and architects. For a more comprehensive summary, see 3 CityLand 143 (Oct. 15, 2006).

The new rules take effect on February 10, 2007.

1 RCNY §§ 13-11, 21-01, 21-02, City Record, January 10, 2007, at 80.