While information is changing hourly, as of March 20, 2020, Governor Andrew Cuomo’s modified Executive Order 202.6 directed all businesses and not-for-profit entities operating in New York to reduce in-person workforce by 100 percent. Many have been wondering- how does this Law impact the building staff for coops and condos?
We believe that the building staff for coops and condos are exempt from this requirement as they provide “essential services”. In fact, the Empire State Development Corporation (the “EDC”) has issued guidance as to the services and functions it deems to be essential and these include employees who provide services necessary to maintain the safety, sanitation and essential operations for residential properties. To that end, doormen, janitors, cleaning and maintenance employees and those who are involved in the collection, processing and disposal of trash and recyclables are considered to provide essential services.
Despite same, please ensure that your building staff is protected with proper personal protection equipment including gloves and masks. Continue to implement extra cleaning and sanitizing measurements for all high-touch areas including door handles and elevator buttons. Keep your residents informed and updated. Virtually/electronically check in with fellow board members and neighbors. We’re all in this together!
Fullerton Beck LLP provides legal services to coop and condo Boards of Directors/Managers as well as property managers. For more information call Katrine Beck, Esq. at (914) 305-8634.