Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about DwellCheck and how we calculate NYC address livability scores.
What is DwellCheck?
DwellCheck is a free tool that provides livability scores for any NYC address. We analyze 15+ public data sources including 311 complaints, DOB violations, NYPD crime data, transit access, and more to help you make informed decisions about where to live.
How accurate are the livability scores?
Our scores are based on official NYC government data from the Open Data portal. We update data regularly and use address-level precision where available. However, scores should be one input in your decision - we recommend visiting any address in person before signing a lease.
What data sources does DwellCheck use?
We use 15+ NYC Open Data sources including: 311 Service Requests, HPD Violations and Complaints, DOB Violations and Permits, NYPD Crime Data, MTA Subway Stations, Parks Properties, FDNY Firehouses, NYC Facilities Database, US Census Bureau ACS data, and more.
Is DwellCheck free?
Yes, DwellCheck is completely free to use. We believe everyone deserves access to public information about where they might live. There are no hidden fees, no account required, and no premium tiers.
How often is the data updated?
We pull data from NYC Open Data sources which are typically updated daily to weekly depending on the source. Our cached scores are refreshed every 14 days to balance freshness with API performance.
What does the letter grade mean?
Letter grades summarize the overall livability score: A (85-100) means excellent conditions with minimal issues. B (70-84) means good conditions with minor concerns. C (55-69) means average conditions with notable issues. F (below 55) means significant concerns across multiple factors.
Can I check addresses outside NYC?
Currently, DwellCheck only supports New York City addresses across all five boroughs (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, Staten Island). We rely on NYC-specific data sources that are not available in other cities.
How is the safety score calculated?
Safety scores are based on NYPD crime data, arrest records, and safety-related 311 complaints within a defined radius of each address. We analyze both violent and property crimes, weighting recent incidents more heavily than older ones.
What is the "Building Health" category?
Building Health analyzes HPD violations, DOB complaints, heat/hot water issues, bedbug reports, elevator violations, and other building-specific data. High complaint volumes or serious violations result in penalty points.
Why does my address show "Demographics" with no score impact?
Demographics data (income, education, race breakdown) is provided for informational context only. We do not factor demographic data into the livability score as it is not directly related to the quality of a specific address.
Why does shelter proximity show no score impact?
Shelter and homeless services proximity is informational only and does not affect scores. This is sensitive data that we provide for awareness without making value judgments.
How can I report an error?
If you notice incorrect data, please remember that our information comes directly from NYC government databases. If you believe there is an error in government records, you can report it to NYC 311. For issues with our tool, contact us through our website.