Forum Archive

I need advice, please.

My basement of my legal 2-family has not been legally designated a basement, but I believe it qualifies as one. Just barely. The survey does not refer to it and there is no C of O, so I believe the DOB has not categorized it.

How can I get it legally designated as a Basement so that I can file for changes including a full kitchen and full bath?

I suspect this needs some finesse as ceiling height from unfinished floor to floor joist is exactly 7′ and the basement is about 51% above the curb level. Counting stairs down or referencing grade at the windows would not lead to a favorable ruling as the curb level is considerably lower than grade.

Who can I turn to get the verdict I need?

Also, what is DOB’s take on part of the basement being lower (increasing ceiling height but putting that part more than 50% below curb level)? At what point does it would it be considered a cellar? By the way, the rear of the basement is at garden level.