PHOTOS: Surprise Building Inspection Leads To Violations in Hyde Park

An apartment complex in Hyde Park, NY is facing repercussions after a surprise building inspection led to the discovery of what officials called "deficient" safety measures for the building's most vulnerable residents.

The inspection, carried out by Hyde Park Town Supervisor Al Torreggiani, Building Inspector Rick Croniser, and Chief of Staff John Lombardi, was a result of numerous complaints from residents about one issue in particular.

About Stone Ledge Apartments in Hyde Park, NY

Stone Ledge Apartments, located at 21 Farm Lane in Hyde Park, NY, is an apartment community for adults 55 years of age and older. It's the specific demographic of residents, officials said, that made the violations even more dangerous.

Surprise Building Inspection Leads to Safety Violations in Hyde Park, NY

"[Hyde Park government officials] made a surprise visit to Stone Ledge Apartments on Farm Lane, responding to concerns regarding the building’s singular elevator being out of service for a extended period", began a recent post from the Town of Hyde Park on Facebook (below).

Broken Elevator Leads to Safety Violations at Hyde Park Apartment Complex

The elevator, the post shared, was the only way many residents could evacuate their second and third-story apartments in case of an emergency. Findings led to fines against Conifer, a real estate development company that owns Stone Ledge Apartments:

Inspection revealed that the building was in violation of 19 NYCRR Part 1227, Section 606.2, which mandates fire safety compliance including safe egress routes in emergency circumstances. Due to these violations, fines have been issued by the Town Building Inspector

Firewatch Mandate Given to Stone Ledge Apartments Amidst Safe Violations

In addition to fines, the town government also mandated a firewatch on each floor. Compliance would mean that there are designated safety professionals monitoring for fires to more quickly alert residents and first responders while the elevator is being repaired.

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Signs reading "UNSAFE" were posted across the apartment complex's property, including at the front exit and on elevator doors. Hyde Park Town Supervisor Al Torreggiani reiterated his office's "zero tolerance" policy when it came to the safety of local seniors:

Our senior residents’ safety and well-being is our top priority. There will be zero tolerance for any condition that threatens their ability to safely exit the building in an emergency. We are committed to ensuring that housing for our seniors meets every safety standard.