The Department of Buildings’ annual No-Penalty Deck and Retaining Wall Inspection Program is a citywide initiative running between May 15 to June 25, which allows New Yorkers to request a free inspection of their decks, porches, and retaining walls. Over time, weather and shifting of soil can cause these structures to weaken, deteriorate or lean. This program gives homeowners the opportunity to ensure their safety before a dangerous deck accident or costly retaining wall failure occurs. If repairs are needed, and the conditions found do not pose an immediate safety hazard to property owners, the Department will withhold issuing any violations to allow property owners sufficient time to make corrective repairs. Property owners can request a free inspection of their decks, porches, or retaining walls to ensure they are structurally sound and in compliance with all City regulations by calling 311. During the assessment, inspectors will check for potentially dangerous conditions, such as cracking, rotting, bulging, leaning and other warning signs that can lead to potential structural failure. By law, homeowners are required to maintain their decks, porches, and retaining walls in a safe and code compliant manner at all times. New Yorkers are encouraged to call 311 to report non-compliant conditions.