NEW CITY, N.Y. — The Rockland County Office of Buildings and Codes has assessed approximately $42,000 in penalties against property owner Joel Friedman of Spring Valley after inspectors identified 51 building and safety violations at 18 White Street.
The inspection took place on January 22 at the request of the Spring Valley Police Department, following a 911 call related to the death of a child at the residence. The child’s death remains under investigation. County officials said there are no known facts at this time indicating the condition of the structure contributed to the death.
The property is certified as a two-family residence, which is not subject to routine inspections under state law. County officials said inspectors were authorized to enter the property after police reported evidence of an unlawful conversion.
Inspectors found that the garage, basement, and second floor had been illegally converted for residential use, contrary to the building’s Certificate of Occupancy. Uninhabitable areas were found to be occupied, with doors and windows boarded up.
Among the violations cited were:
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Alterations without permits
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Unsafe electrical conditions
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Blocked or obstructed exits
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Missing or non-functional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
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Presence of combustible materials
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Unlawful changes to use and occupancy
Officials said additional hazards included unsafe wiring and the use of hot plates and portable heaters.
County officials confirmed that no children were present during the inspection and that this was the first inspection request ever received for the property, with no prior violation history.
The County also addressed social media claims suggesting the property was operating as an unlicensed daycare, stating there was no signage, licensing, or other visible evidence to support that allegation.
“This tragedy underscores the importance of code compliance and community responsibility,” said County Executive Ed Day, urging residents to report unsafe conditions in properties not subject to routine inspections.
Edward Markunas, Director of the Office of Buildings and Codes, said the violations posed “serious life-safety concerns.”
The County confirmed that Child Protective Services is involved and continues to work with law enforcement as appropriate.
Residents can report building and code violations to the Rockland County Office of Buildings and Codes at 845-364-3700 or obcmain@co.rockland.ny.us.
