On July 10, 2025, inspectors from the Rockland County Office of Buildings and Codes (OBC) observed construction at 36 Jill Lane without a valid building permit. Although an application for minor exterior updates—specifically window and siding replacements—had been submitted and was under review, inspectors found that the residence was undergoing a full interior renovation. This included partition walls separating the first and second floors, a complete gut renovation of the second story, and extensive electrical, plumbing, framing, and insulation work. A Stop Work Order was issued the same day.
Upon returning the following day, inspectors discovered workers unloading materials into the house, violating the Stop Work Order. Consequently, Rockland County issued more than $20,000 in fines and impounded a contractor’s vehicle for operating without a valid license.
Legal and Regulatory Actions
Property Owner: Devorah Landau was cited for 28 violations and fined $18,750.
Contractors Involved:
Yisroel Sandel of YMS Home Improvement: Fined $5,000 for hiring unlicensed subcontractors and violating the Stop Work Order.
Nery Estuardo Medina Sandoval: Fined $3,000 for operating without a valid home improvement license.
Additionally, Sandoval’s vehicle, lacking company markings and a valid Rockland County Home Improvement Contractor decal, was impounded. Both YMS Home Improvement and Sandel are summoned before the Home Improvement Licensing Board, where their licenses could be suspended or revoked for repeated code violations.
Official Statements
County Executive Ed Day: “This is what happens when property owners and contractors think they can ignore the law. I applaud our Office of Buildings and Codes and Consumer Protection for collaborating and ensuring all those involved are held accountable.”
OBC Director Edward Markunas: “Our inspectors are committed to ensuring construction in Rockland County is safe, legal, and held to the highest standard.”
Consumer Protection Director Kimberly Von Ronn: “Unlicensed contractors put the safety of residents and the integrity of our housing stock at serious risk and why anyone working in Rockland County must be properly licensed and insured — no exceptions.”