Who is Responsible for Installing Insect Screens?


Hi,
I just moved into an apartment with large floor to ceiling sliding windows in Brooklyn. However, none of the windows have insect screens and we’re having big issues with mosquitoes, roaches, and flies entering the apartment through the windows.

In NYC, are landlords responsible for providing insect screens? Or do tenants need to pay for them? The sliding windows are huge, so I am concerned about the cost…..

I was unable to find any documentation on tenant rights regarding this issue. Any advice would be helpful!

Thanks,

Categories: Windows
By housieQ | 09/08/2010 3:45 PM | Comment

Structural Engineer Recommendations


Hi,
My husband and I are in the process of purchasing a townhouse which needs extensive structural work with a planned rear extension. The existing 3-story house will be pretty much be rebuilt for the exception of the party-walls and the foundation. Since we have an architect who will be preparing the drawings for filing, the main service we are seeking from the engineer will be evaluating the existing foundation and determining if any of the structure could be reused and the methods and materials that is necessary for the new structure. Has anyone had experience with a good structural engineer for this type of project? Is there any range of fees we should expect for this scope of job? Any advice would be appreciated, Thanks!

Categories: Engineer
By housieQ | 08/30/2010 5:18 PM | Comment

GC Recs for Modern Townhouse


I am currently in the process of purchasing a home in Brooklyn that I am planning on tearing down and building a new 4-story townhouse in a
modern style. Has anyone done this sort of project and have recommendations for GC’s experienced in ground-up work or extensions?

Categories: General Contractors
By housieQ | 07/06/2010 2:38 PM | Comment

Tax Impacts of Changing C of O


Hi,
I am considering adding an additional floor on a two story brick townhouse and converting it from 2 family to 3 family. Is there a way to calculate how much the property tax will increase? Will changing the C of O eliminate the 6% cap on the tax increase? Any advice would be helpful.

Categories: Taxes
By housieQ | 04/01/2010 1:29 AM | Comment

Using 3unit townhouse using as 2


I am considering purchasing a legal 3-unit townhouse (there are 3 meters for each floor). My husband & I are planning on removing the kitchen on the 3rd floor unit and use the upper 2 units for ourselves and eventually rent the bottom unit.

Do I need to change the C of O or can I still keep it as 3unit even if I take out one of the kitchen?

Any advice is helpful,
Thanks,

Categories: C of O
By housieQ | 06/03/2009 11:49 PM | Comment