NYC Office of Special Enforcement: Illegal Conversions, Short-Term Rentals & Code Enforcement
Understanding the NYC Office of Special Enforcement
The NYC Office of Special Enforcement (OSE) operates under the Mayor’s Office and targets a range of quality-of-life and building code violations. From short-term rentals to unauthorized use of space, OSE investigates complaints, conducts inspections, and works closely with other city agencies to ensure compliance with zoning, housing, and safety regulations. Many property owners discover OSE violations through surprise inspections or after receiving a notice of hearing, often linked to platforms like Airbnb, illegal hotels, or improperly converted spaces.
Request a Consultation — Resolve OSE violations quickly and protect your property from enforcement action.
Common Violations Issued by OSE
SLK Buildings assists clients who receive OSE violations for:
- Illegal short-term rentals (under 30 days)
- Unauthorized conversions (e.g., SROs turned into hotels or dorms)
- Illegal use of cellar or basement units
- Fire safety violations due to occupancy type
Failure to comply with a prior OSE or DOB order
These violations often come with high penalties and may be accompanied by a Vacate Order, padlocking, or litigation. Ignoring them can escalate into enforcement action that damages your building’s long-term legal standing
Our Services for Office of Special Enforcement Compliance
At SLK Buildings, we offer hands-on support in dealing with OSE investigations and enforcement matters. Whether you’re dealing with a pending inspection, an active hearing, or post-violation remediation, we:
- Analyze the original complaint and city records
- Determine the underlying zoning and code conflict
- Coordinate with a Registered Architect (if needed)
- Prepare legalization filings or demolition plans
- Represent your interests during hearings
- Liaise with DOB, FDNY, HPD, and other agencies
With 25+ years of experience across NYC’s regulatory landscape, we build a compliance roadmap tailored to your building and tenant profile.
Avoid Future OSE Actions
Prevention is key. SLK Buildings advises building owners on how to legally operate extended-stay or furnished rentals, how to reconfigure SRO or multi-unit layouts, and how to create use-group compliant spaces. We also help clients apply for Certificates of No Harassment (CONH) and DOB approvals to ensure all units and uses align with NYC Building and Zoning Codes. If you suspect a unit or listing in your building may trigger OSE inspection, it’s best to act now.
Talk to SLK Buildings Before It Becomes a Case
Whether you’ve received a violation or want to avoid one, SLK Buildings is your ally. We combine technical expertise with real-world results — and we know how to deal with OSE.