Once DOT steps in, the owner loses control over contractor choice, timeline, and cost — the Department of Finance simply bills whatever the city-hired crew charges, plus an administrative fee, and the owner has 90 days to pay before interest and a lien attach. This route is almost always more expensive than a private repair completed on time, and it doesn't include the flexibility to choose materials, finish, or scheduling that hiring your own DOT-registered contractor allows. Acting within the original window is the simplest way to avoid this outcome.
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