collapsed trap?


Hi-I have stinky water on the basement floor of a 1910 rowhouse ( limestone). The non-licensed plumber who just came by said I have a “collapsed trap” & he has to open the concrete and replace the 4″ diameter U of the original 1910 trap for $1000. does this sound right? I don’t even know how to determine if it is indeed a “collapsed trap”

Categories: Plumbing
By Janina | 02/24/2009 3:29 PM | Comment

DOB/legal basement apt. -8ft ceiling?


We would like to legally turn our basement into an apt. ( it has a private entrance, an exit to the garden and is 50% above ground.) Our ceiling height is however, slightly less than 8 feet. I have gotten a number of differing opinions about the legality doing so from expeditors and contractors Some say the ceiling needs to be a minimum of 8 ft others think 7 ft. is considered habitable. Anyone know the real deal and who I should call to get a final answer? Thanks very much for any advice and help!

Categories: Building Code
By Janina | 05/14/2008 4:15 PM | Comment