TR1


So – finally we got our permit and work will start Monday in a week, but we had serveral issues with TR1 before.

The initial TR1 the testing company prepared didn’t address all items on the B-Scan list. The GC went to DOB just to be told it is incomplete.

Who in general is responsible for making sure the TR1 covers everything? In our case the architect blames GC, but architect coordinated with external testing.

Further the B-Scan list had a test that was not applicable and the expediter needed to get it waived. Shouldn’t the expediter take care of this before sending the GC to pulling permit? The issue was obvious since the initial filing from the initial B-Scan list….

Lastly all these tests will be done via an external testing company. Looking at other filing I see architects handling this part by themselves. We were told regulation changed and it needs to be done via 3rd party. Correct?

If I only would have known of the B-Scan list before. I could have coordianted this better myself….

Categories: Architects
By nonsense | 05/09/2011 10:22 AM | Comment

TR-8 Energy Inspections.


We are in the final stretch to prepare all documents to get permits for our Alt-1 townhouse renovation. Plans were approved in Feb 2011.

Now our architect wants 4.5k extra for TR-8 sign-off during constructions. How do other architects handle this? Do you do the sign-off yourself or use 3rd party services? How much do you charge for this.

Categories: Architects
By nonsense | 04/22/2011 1:45 PM | Comment

Construction Unit Prices


So we got a our bids for our constructions back and they were all over the place. This is a 2800 sqf gut reno split over four floors….

For a project of this size
- what are really low (are you sure you know what you are getting into?),
- normal/reasonable
- too high (do you work on palaces normally?)

for

- 1sqf of installing drywall
- 1sqf of skimming/coating of drywall
- 1sqf of painting
- 1sqf of tiling (excluding material)
- 1sqf of wooden floor installation

Thanks in advance!

Categories: Construction
By nonsense | 10/24/2010 5:55 PM | Comment

Filing nowhere to be found on DOB BIS


We are working with an expediter via our architect on our Alt 2 project. Our architect says it has been filed at least three weeks ago, but so for no sign of anything on the DOB BIS system. We are told this is because no plan examiner has been assigned. Does this make any sense? TIA

Categories: DOB
By nonsense | 10/17/2010 5:26 PM | Comment

Air Admittance Valve for Kitchen Island Sink Venting?


Does NY code allow for the venting of a kitchen island sink via air admittance valve similar to the one shown here as option 2.

http://www.familyhandyman.com/DIY-Projects/Plumbing/Kitchen-Plumbing/how-to-plumb-an-island-sink/Step-By-Step

Thanks!

Categories: Plumbing
By nonsense | 06/21/2010 8:30 AM | Comment

Rentals – Studio vs 1 BR


What is the rent differential for a well laid studio with sleeping alcove vs an awkward laid out 1BR everything else being equal – same kitchen, same bathroom fixtures and overall space.

What is the current rent level for studios and 1BR garden level apts with limited access to garden in prime location within Park Slope? About 550 sqft.

Categories: Renters
By nonsense | 05/19/2010 1:49 PM | Comment

Minimum Bathroom Dimension


Currently planning the complete renovation of our new house. Wondering about the new building code in regards to minimum bathroom dimension.

Think when you enter the bathroom toilet on the side wall, sink next to shower on the wall bathtub shower combination at the end between the side walls. Hope my description makes sense.

Categories: Configuration
By nonsense | 05/18/2010 9:45 AM | Comment

Engineer Estimates?


We are currently deciding the approach for the renovation with planned extension for the house we will be closing in April. We are speaking with architects and contractors.

While it is clear that for the scope of work we have in mind that a structural engineer is necessary, the prices mentioned by architects vary widely. Some say around 5k, other 10k to 15k. The main structural work is reviewing the existing structure and an a three to four story extension. Do these quotes sound high or appropriate.

Less clear to me is the role of a mechanical engineer. In our case he would be dimensioning the heating and AC system. Some architects quote this as a fee in the 15k range which seems to me like a lot for the work involved. Other saying the HVAC contractor will actually dimensioning the heating/AC system as part of his work. I am curious to hear opinions on involving a mechanical engineer or not. Any positive/negative experiences?.

Categories: Engineer
By nonsense | 03/31/2010 9:48 AM | Comment

Insurance for a 2-Family


We are in contract for a 2 family four story brick building. We are currently looking into obtaining insurance coverage for the house. What kind of insurance coverage do we need/is recommended? Purchase price is 950k. Coming from a condo, where we only had to cover the inside of our apt we don’t know what to look out for.

Categories: Insurance
By nonsense | 03/29/2010 1:42 PM | Comment

Change of C of O


So we are now seriously looking at gut job house purchase. COO list the place as 3 stories plus vacant attic. We would like to build an extension and make use of the attic for master bedroom and bathroom. It is currently a 2 fam and we would keep at 2 fam.

My understanding is we would need to change CoO. What costs are involved with that change?

Categories: C of O
By nonsense | 01/27/2010 8:32 AM | Comment