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November 4, 2009
DOB Regulations Query
Planning on changing from a 2-family triplex + garden apt to a 3-family, with two 1-bedroom apts on two top floors of a fairly narrow (16-foot-wide interior) 110-year-old brownstone. I’m unclear about width requirements for the apartment entry doors (i.e., entering from the common stair hallway). The doors are now 30 inches, and we plan on a 33-inch interior hallway. Will this be sufficient or must they be 34-inch doors and 36-inch interior hallways? Any enlightenment or direction to the code would be welcome.
Comments
You'll need to change the C of O and the requirements will be significant since your home will now be a multiple dwelling. And, yes, all the doors will need to be 34". Ed Kopel Architects.
Posted by: edkopel at November 4, 2009 5:10 PM
you should really hire an architect to consult on this, as it will need to be filed anyway...though i do not know either of them personally, both ed koppell and jim hill seem to know their stuff from their postings on brownstoner
Posted by: eman1234 at November 4, 2009 8:59 PM
Thank you both. My pros say the same thing -- I was just hoping there was some possible other answer. Guess not...
Posted by: mcps at November 5, 2009 9:54 AM
Your information is correct that the corridors need to be 3'-0" min width, and the apartment doors 2'-10". Bathrooms and kitchens may be subject to ADA requirements if the building is deemed accessible to the disabled.
MG
Michael Gray Architects
Posted by: Michael Gray Architects at November 5, 2009 11:42 AM
The conversion to 3-Family will definitely require a change to the Certificate of Occupancy, and the new layout will be subject to Multiple Dwelling Law, requiring each apt to have two means of egress to meet fire code. Installing sprinklers, in some instances, achieves code compliance, obviating the need for the second means of egress.
MG
Michael Gray Architects
Posted by: Michael Gray Architects at November 5, 2009 11:52 AM
Thanks for your input, MGA. Am applying for a new C of O, of course. Stairs would present quite an obstacle to someone in a wheelchair.
Posted by: mcps at November 5, 2009 4:47 PM
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