We got cited recently by the NYC Environmental Control Board for having some of our gas meters in the common hallways ... contrary to a code augmentation memo dating from 1975. We are trying to argue that we are grandfathered to get around the big expenses of moving meters into apartments or the basement ... we've also heard a rumor that many other buildings in the neighborhood are getting hit. This violation is currently causing us grief in renewing our insurance, and could cost us many thousands to cure, so we want to try and band together if there are others in our situation.
So… Any other co-op members have information to share? Have you been cited by the ECB? Have you successfully navigated moving the meters?
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Previously on EV Grieve:
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Reader mailbag: What do I do about my new neighbors who smoke pot all the time? (52 comments)
Reader mailbag: Where is a good place to get a cup of coffee in the East Village before 6 a.m.? (25 comments)
Reader mailbag: Do you have any suggestions for East Village-related holiday gifts? (22 comments)
I never seen one in a hallway before, all the ones I seen are in the basement, even the building I'm in was built in 1901 and they're all in basement.
ReplyDeleteI actually would really like it if ours were in the hallway, or some other common area. Having my gas meter in my apartment means that it is maybe once a year that the meter reader gets to see it. I (or someone has) have to be home on a workday long after I've usually left. The electrical meters are downstairs, but not the gas meters. I wonder why.
ReplyDeleteWe too have recently been cited by ECB for meters in the hallway.
ReplyDeleteWould love to join forces or get information from others similarly (and recently) cited.
I'm hearing grumblings that it is Con Ed who is spearheading this effort.
ReplyDeleteI thought ConEd decides where a meter should be, and does the installation as well, so the ECB should be citing them, not the building owners.
ReplyDelete@ 4:27 PM
ReplyDeleteNo.
Building owner, architect, etc. decide placement in compliance with all building codes (obviously).
Plumbers do the (uh…) plumbing.
When ready, Con Ed attaches "their" meters to the plumbing.
Mine is in the apartment and was installed by con ed with no interaction with the landlord 20 years ago. trying to remember how the pipes got there, because they don't look that old but I'm sure con ed did the whole thing, possibly replaced old pipes with new ones when they installed the meter and hooked it up to the stove.
ReplyDeleteCon Ed didn't install your pipes, just like they didn't install your electrical wires and light switches.
ReplyDeleteThe meters themselves (both gas and electrical) are the only thing that are their property.
This is becoming a problem for several east village buildings. Any indication as to what other EV residents are doing about this would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
ReplyDelete