DOB for Zoning Information


Does the DOB have a phone number where they can assist with zoning questions? Do they answer zoning questions in person?

I own a mixed use commercial building, and two of my neighbors have built a 700 sq ft extension. When I spoke with 2 architects, they each said I could only build out 300 sq ft, because I am required to maintain a 30 foot recess between my property and the houses on the next street. One neighbor has had this extension for 20 years, and the other one since 2003.

I’d like to talk to someone at the DOB in person, since both architects have told me I can’t build this extension.

Categories: DOB
By mica | 04/29/2011 10:50 AM | Comment

Tenant Renewal Question


A few days ago I made an appointment with my tenants (a married couple) to sign a lease renewal. They missed the appointment, and my two calls to their cellphone went to voicemail.

Is it acceptable to just leave the one-page renewal form at their door for them to sign and return to me?

Categories: Renters
By mica | 04/27/2011 11:54 PM | Comment

Renewing with tenant


Does a lease have to be notarized? My tenant has been living in the apartment for 3 years, and we are about to sign a lease renewal for the 2nd time. Is it acceptable for both tenants to sign and initial each page? I realize I do not have a notarized lease and am wondering if that could turn out to be a problem in the future. Thanks for any advice.

Categories: Tenants
By mica | 04/05/2011 11:54 AM | Comment

Building a 300 Sq Ft Extension


I would like to add a 300 ft extension. Is it possible to do it without excavating? (This, since moving ground earth through the rest of the place would not be an option). Can this be done? This space would also have to be waterproof. I would very much appreciate any input.

Categories: Construction
By mica | 02/17/2011 7:56 AM | Comment

Building an Extension


I own a 20×55 commercial mixed use building. My direct neighbor has a first floor extension going out to 90 feet (each lot is 20×100 on this street). Another building two doors down also has this size extension.

I hired an architect to apply for this same extension for my building. However, being as the next street over is entirely residential along the rear of the property, by zoning rules there must be a 30 foot recess in the backyard. The most we would be allowed to build out is another 15 feet.

I asked two other architects and both said that only a 30 foot recess is allowed.

The building a few doors down built this extension in 1983; the other building has a stop work order on this extension still open since 2004.

Do I have any options?

Categories: DOB
By mica | 12/27/2009 10:39 AM | Comment