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DBI faces criticism over delayed repairs after tenant spent days without heat at 570 O'Farrell
Summary
A tenant and DBI staff clashed over the department’s ability to compel repairs after a resident at 570 O'Farrell reported up to eight days without heat; DBI said it is pursuing an action plan with the owner, explained limits of emergency orders and described the repair-and-demolition fund and lien process.
A tenant and city inspectors clashed over how quickly the Department of Building Inspection (DBI) can force repairs after a resident at 570 O'Farrell told the Building Inspection Commission she went eight days without heat and five days without hot water. "An NOV was issued on 05/24...as of the close of business yesterday, nothing has been done," resident Sandy Bernbach said during public comment, pressing staff to explain what the phrase "at once" on a DBI notice of violation requires.
Deputy Director Ed Sweeney told the commission that DBI reserves emergency orders for "extreme life-safety hazards" such as possible collapse, and that only after an emergency order could the department carry out repairs…
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