Tackling the Dirt and Grime Problem on the Streets of New York
New York City is so big that dirt and grime is always going to be a problem. Time Out have set out just how severe the problem is, though, with their revelation that the city had been voted one of the world’s dirtiest. While the most tourist-friendly sights and buildings will typically be given routine maintenance, the quality of cleaning for your average city block will vary depending on a wide range of factors. One street will be different from the next, and simply making the change and getting it cleaned up is difficult due to the logistical issues tight city streets pose. So who exactly is responsible for this, and what can be done to mitigate the situation?
Routine maintenance - exteriors
Apartment blocks have a few regular maintenance jobs that are necessary for their safe running and the comfort of tenants. This includes window cleaning, gutter clearing, and the removal of waste if it accumulates in the front of the property. Gutter cleaning is, in particular, becoming particularly important. A gutter cleaning service enables the proper flow of water through water catchment systems on the building block, reducing the risk of leaks and preventing exterior damage or staining from rainwater flows. According to The Atlantic, rain is falling more frequently, and harder, than ever it has ever before - in NYC, at least. Currently, exterior maintenance falls to the landlord or tenants to arrange, though, if interior issues are becoming apparent - like leaks - the city may get involved. However, as flooding becomes more severe, you may expect more city input from day one.
Cleaning the building
Similarly, the exterior appearance of a building is often the responsibility of the block owner. There may be pressure from the local city authorities to keep the building clean; but that’s likely to be within areas of tourist interest or heritage beauty. Accordingly, it will often fall to the tenants to clean the building as, unless it's part of your contract for any building facility, it’s likely that you won’t be able to force any action. You can, of course, pressure wash the building yourself. Beware, however; many of the sandstone-based properties, including Brownstones, are suspect to erosion from acid rain and a degree of dirt can actually act as a protector.
The sidewalk
When it comes to the street, however, the city is responsible. Despite NYC hosting 12,000 miles of sidewalks, the city is required to keep them clean and keep them maintained. That includes the removal of trash from fly-tipping, or issues like paint and oil spills, even if they lose money on them. Ring up issues on the sidewalk quickly - getting in the queue, and talking to the oversubscribed city services, will get you in the list to be seen sooner.
It mostly falls to the owners and landlords, then, to keep NYC apartment buildings clean. That’s true even if it’s a strict need, like with guttering. The sidewalk falls to the city, but, as with most services, raising concerns quickly is key.
