An investigation by New York City Comptroller Brad Lander revealed that the Turkish consulate in Manhattan has been operating without a valid Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO) since October. Known as the “Turkish House” or “Turkevi Center,” the 35-story building has been at the center of Mayor Eric Adams’ federal indictment on charges including bribery and wire fraud. The audit also exposed that numerous other buildings across the city are similarly lacking proper occupancy certificates.
The audit, released on Wednesday, January 8th, disclosed that the Department of Buildings (DOB) issued the first TCO for the Turkish House in September 2021, renewing it 12 times until September 2024. However, the agency denied a renewal request in late September due to unresolved violations and changes in occupancy rules. Despite this, the building has continued to operate. Lander criticized the city’s handling of the situation, stating, “By rushing to allow the opening of Turkish House in advance of a ribbon-cutting ceremony with President Erdoğan, DOB and FDNY cut serious corners that could have compromised the safety of the occupants and neighbors.”
Federal prosecutors allege that Adams pressured then-Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro to approve the incomplete fire safety systems of the Turkish House in September 2021, ahead of a visit from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Adams, who was Brooklyn Borough President at the time, allegedly sought to expedite the process in exchange for luxury travel and campaign contributions. Adams has pleaded not guilty to all charges and described the case as politically motivated.
Lander’s audit found that the Fire Department did not approve the building’s fire protection plan until September 2024, the day Adams was indicted. While the FDNY stated that fire inspections were conducted and safety staff were present, the building remains without a permanent certificate due to unresolved violations.
Beyond the Turkish House, the comptroller’s report identified over 3,500 buildings citywide operating without valid certificates of occupancy, including 637 office buildings. Lander expressed concerns about this “staggering” number, urging city agencies to improve oversight and enforcement to ensure public safety.
As Adams prepares for trial in April, the controversy continues to draw attention, with Lander, a progressive challenger in the upcoming mayoral election, using the findings to highlight deficiencies in city governance.
