The changes you need to know to NYC DOB’s PW-2 forms

It’s common for forms like the PW-2 to undergo updates by the NYC DOB every so often. One form that’s undergone changes in 2020 is the PW-2. As of December 7, 2020, the prior PW-2 version will no longer be accepted by the DOB.

The last major changes to the PW-2 were in 2018 

In June of 2018, the PW-2 form underwent significant changes. At that time, the DOB updated the form to reflect several local laws. Specifically, these were Local Law 149 of 2017, Local Law 188 of 2017, and Local Law 196 of 2017). To comply with these laws, PW-2 forms were updated at the time. Part of those updates was to require information on how many units were to be occupied during construction. Clarification also had to be provided on the percentage of alterations in relation to overall floor surface area. Applicants also had to verify whether their workers had gone through site safety training. 

Latest changes to the PW-2 form in 2020

The updates from 2018 are still included on the PW-2 form. However, this new version brings enhanced focus to how tenant protection plans (TPPs) are prepared and submitted. Local Law 106 of 2019 mandated that TPPs be prepared and filed by a registered design professional (RDP) who is on retainer with the general contractor. (It’s important to note that the same RDP who prepares the TPP also needs to be the one who submits it.) This change is part of an ongoing process to enhance accountability surrounding tenant safety and access to essential services.

As with any edits, this change to RDPs and the PW-2 form has raised an additional question: does the RDP retained by the general contractor have to be identical to the applicant of record? While the RDP filing the TPP does need to be retained by the general contractor, he or she can (but does not have to be) the applicant of record.

Using the new NYC PW-2 form 

You can find the newest NYC PW-2 form here. The old version is no longer accepted by the DOB. It’s also important to remember that the NYC DOB requires PW-2 forms to be typed. Handwritten forms will be rejected. Your signature is your acknowledgement of all of the terms in the PW-2, including the newest addition about retaining the RDP who creates your TPP. This bullet point’s exact language is listed just above the signature line.