vinca's Profile
Author's Posts
June 30, 2009
Window restoration, replacement
Does anyone have experience (good or bad) with fabrication and installation of windows from any of the following companies? Or recommendations for other companies specializing in this work in a historic district?:
Honeoye Falls Millwork
Historical Windows
Landmark Restoration Services, Inc.
We need to remedy a heat loss problem on our parlor floor and extension. We’ve already adjusted radiator steam heat, and weatherproofed to the greatest extent possible (short of a build-out to add insulation). Our parlor floor windows need repair, restoration or replacement regardless...some immediately, some in the long run. Any leads, recommendations, or cautions based on personal experience much appreciated.
March 23, 2009
Furniture refinishing question
I’d be grateful for input re: cleaning/restoring wood furniture, along the lines of Bob Marvin’s response to be2bk’s thread about Style of Chair. I’ve inherited several pieces of furniture, nearly all with “condition issues,” running the gamut of worn and scratched surfaces, bubbling veneers, and many, many layers of dust from years of storage. Regardless of damage, the furniture has sentimental value to me. My primary aim is to clean these items, rather than restore them to perfection (which I’d leave to a pro, if I ever went that route). In response to be2bk’s post, Bob Marvin wrote: “The discolored feet (and the finish in general) can be made to look much better in minutes with Old English furniture polish, Howard-Restor-A-Finish, Scott's Liquid Gold, or a similar product. I especially like the Howard stuff, which Pintchik carries.” I’ve also gotten recommendations to first damp wash with Dawn, followed by naptha or mineral spirits. I’ve been warned off using Murphy’s oil soap. Any other suggestions or cautions re: cleaning and restoring the furniture’s finish would be much appreciated.
February 5, 2009
FYI re: DOB, new fines
Just had an unexpected, unscheduled visit to our jobsite by a DOB inspector (all permits in order, all engineer's drawings on-site). FYI: a new, 3-month-old rule—$1200 fine if jobsite does not have a "No Smoking" sign posted.
Author's Comments
No, you cannot just enter their apartment unless it's an emergency. You have to give notice, and the notice has to meet exacting standards and language. All of these details will be even more important if you begin legal proceedings. The best place to start is by visiting the help desk before taking action so you begin to understand what is required, and what is permitted. If you decide to proceed with an eviction, hire an attorney from a law firm that represents landlords exclusively. That attorney might cost you more on an hourly basis, but will save you much time, money and headaches in the long-run. Start by informing yourself and by visiting the help desk.
Posted by: vinca at November 20, 2009 2:13 PM in response to severe dammage by tenants
There are salvage pieces of metal fence sold at Vaccaro's (917-837-3039) in the parking lot of Lowe's, 9th St. between 2nd Ave. and Smith.
Posted by: vinca at November 20, 2009 12:56 PM in response to metal fence patch work
Do not attempt this on your own. And even if your own attorney is good, though expensive, do not use him unless he is thoroughly familiar with landlord-tenant law. Go to the help desk at Kings County Housing Court and consult the attorneys there, no charge. 140 Livingston St. You will not succeed in housing court unless you follow the requirements carefully and completely: http://www.courts.state.ny.us/courts/nyc/housing/pdfs/Landlordbooklet.pdf
Posted by: vinca at November 20, 2009 12:49 PM in response to severe dammage by tenants
Go into a place like Mega Glass on 5th Ave. near Bergen and ask for an estimate on the mirror. Bring dimensions and photo(s). Alternatively, consider whether you can add a frame to the mirror that will cover the damage and protect the edge.
Posted by: vinca at November 20, 2009 12:43 AM in response to Credit for bathroom mirror
From what you're describing, it's priced too high (way too high), unless it's in prime PS. (Your post-reno comps make me think it's not.) Not only will you have the costs of repairs, but also the time and carrying costs while you obtain the necessary permits. If you've never done a substantial renovation, there's a learning curve. Everything may go great, without a hitch, and entirely within budget, but I wouldn't rely on that. Building priced too high, renovation estimates priced too low.
Posted by: vinca at November 20, 2009 12:38 AM in response to Habitable? Financing? Time-Bomb?
Maybe a Pratt or Cooper Union student, or maybe one of the artists who post to this site: http://www.urbansketchers.com/search/label/Brooklyn
Posted by: vinca at November 20, 2009 12:23 AM in response to Building Sketch
Unless you're determined to install salvage, there are lots of console sinks on the market. Anywhere from Amazon to Ebay to the links below. I have to imagine that if you find a current model you like, you'd be able to order the same or similar through a place like Park Slope Plumbing:
http://www.restorationhardware.com/
http://www.vintagetub.com/
http://www.bathsfromthepast.com/
http://www.vintagebath.com/
Posted by: vinca at November 20, 2009 12:09 AM in response to in need of old sink!
Some other sources for house numbers (some with multiple links):
Restoration Hardware: http://bit.ly/1ZfFqN
Old House Web: http://bit.ly/3MYp52
Apartment Therapy: http://bit.ly/wsjmo
Remodelista: http://bit.ly/1oxYJz
Posted by: vinca at November 19, 2009 9:24 AM in response to Apartment Door Numbers
Modsquad's suggestion is a good start. Also, see this text in the NYC Administrative Code concerning violations of the zoning resolution in residential districts: http://bit.ly/38nAaY
And these links concerning NYC’s padlock enforcement unit:
http://www.nyc.gov/html/dob/html/violations/padlockfaq.shtml
http://www.nyc.gov/html/dob/html/violations/padlock.shtml
http://www.nyc.gov/html/dob/downloads/pdf/padlock.pdf
Posted by: vinca at November 19, 2009 9:07 AM in response to Illegal Business Next Door
Echoing the others who say of course you can and should communicate with the LL directly. There is a very small chance that your absentee LL really doesn't know what the super is doing. S/he might prefer it that way, but it's possible the super's been handing them a line and they might want to hear otherwise. In some ways, that's irrelevant, because you still have the right to services, and you still have the right to contact them directly. Go to ACRIS to find the LL's address. Write to them via certified mail. If you do not know the block and lot number, then go to the ACRIS link that says "Search by Parcel Identifier", and click on the button for address lookup: http://a836-acris.nyc.gov/Scripts/DocSearch.dll/BBL
Also, before writing to the LL, it would be worth your time to consult the attorneys, available at no cost at the help desk at Kings County Housing Court, 140 Livingston St.
Posted by: vinca at November 18, 2009 10:27 AM in response to Contacting Landlord
I did not visit Gold St. re: violations; my visit concerned another matter. Our violations were removed via our self-certification and inspector's on-premises confirmation. From my vantage point, and considering the timeframe of your refinancing, nothing for you to lose but the travel time—whether setting up an appointment with inspector, or having them clear the books because more than 70 days elapsed without inspection.
Posted by: vinca at November 17, 2009 5:37 PM in response to Violation Reissuance Program
I can't say this will work for you, but I can say that on the occasions where I've had to visit HPD in person at 100 Gold, I've gotten excellent and immediate help: HPD, Division of Code Enforcement, 100 Gold Street, 4P6, New York, NY 10038. The 70-day period OP just cited is addressed in the link below, but I would say it's open to interpretation. We also received reissued violations, and certified correction by the stated deadline. Only through neighbors did we find out that HPD visited our premises to inspect themselves without an appointment and without leaving notice. A few days later they returned, again without an appointment, and we were home to walk them through the premises.
http://www.nyc.gov/html/hpd/html/owners/violation-reissuance.shtml
Posted by: vinca at November 17, 2009 5:17 PM in response to Violation Reissuance Program
From the photo, it looks like you have ceramic tiles, not terra cotta. (Maybe that's some bizarro stamped and stained concrete pattern, but unlikely.) In general, unsealed terra cotta is quite porous and will take a stain easily (including wood stain). If ceramic, you’ll need to remove the glaze first (not recommended). You can test your tile’s porosity by sprinkling random drops of water and watching whether the surface darkens. Make sure you check grout lines, too. If water is absorbed in two seconds or less, your tile is highly absorbent and you’ll have no trouble staining. If different random drops absorb at different rates, the same thing will happen when you try to stain and the result will be uneven. If the water simply beads on the surface, your tile's either glazed or sealed and won't be easy to stain. You can always try testing stain in an inconspicuous location.
Posted by: vinca at November 16, 2009 9:14 PM in response to Staining Outdoor Tile?
Try Muff's Hardware in Orange, CA, and/or Crown City Hardware in Pasadena. Muff's is a weird, wonderful, and jam-packed place to walk into. Not a very good website, but an ancient, endless inventory. If your pockets are deep enough, Crown City will cast a copy to match. Some jewelers will do that, too. Send photos to both:
http://www.muffshardware.com/
http://www.crowncityhardware.com/
Posted by: vinca at November 16, 2009 11:34 AM in response to Looking Sash Lift
Call 311.
See: http://www.nyc.gov/html/hpd/html/tenants/heat-and-hot-water.shtml
http://www.housingnyc.com/html/resources/dhcr/dhcr15.html
http://www.nyc.gov/html/hpd/html/tenants/faqs-for-tenants.shtml#Ihavenoheatorhotwater
Posted by: vinca at November 16, 2009 9:35 AM in response to No Hot Water...Help
On a block for block basis, the North Slope is definitely a beautiful and compact area for a walking tour of Park Slope. The Brooklyn Historical Society's got this brochure (though parts, like the mention of Henington Press, are outdated): http://brooklynhistory.org/publications/download/BHSParkSlopeGuideTours.pdf
If your walk extends late enough in the day, you'll enjoy the advantage of early nightfall and be able to peak at interiors too. A really great site with photos and other information about Park Slope is: http://www.nyc-architecture.com/PS/PS.htm
Posted by: vinca at November 15, 2009 10:02 AM in response to Need recs for Park Slope tour
Setting aside specific blocks for the moment, I'd encourage you to take your parents to the Brooklyn Museum and for a walk in the Botanic Gardens. Both are gems. Same is true for Prospect Park, though more of a ramble if you're not familiar with it. Maybe a meal or event at the Montauk Club is something your parents would enjoy: http://montaukclub.com/about/events/
I'm not on it often, but I happen to be fond of 10th Street between 8th and the Park. It's just a quiet, oldtime-feeling street, that still has some gaslight fixtures.
Posted by: vinca at November 14, 2009 10:14 PM in response to Need recs for Park Slope tour
You can review past water bills at: http://nycserv.nyc.gov/NYCServWeb/NYCSERVMain
In our multiple dwelling, the very normal, average bill PER UNIT (if figured that way) is now approaching, but not yet exceeding $100/qtr. for an apartment like the one you describe (2-3 bedrooms, W/D, DW, building just under $400/qtr.). $30/qtr.?...not even if you recycle rain and greywater. As R9 said, rates have jumped recently, and continue to do so. In a 5-unit building, there is a very good chance that your LLs bill already exceeds $400/qtr.
There's absolutely no reason why you should absorb the cost of water at all (already figured into your lease), and certainly not the cost of the LL's responsibility for a fixture or water main break, or the cost created by another tenant who fails to report a leaking fixture. (In our case, a tenant who failed to report a constantly running toilet added $1000 to just one quarter's bill.) If you're otherwise happy with the apartment, revise the rider to read $100 or $125 per apt./per quarter ($500-$625 total), and include language that releases you from specific leaks, breaks and damage. You have a right to negotiate the rider (not to mention the lease). The LL has the right to refuse to negotiate, and tell you take it or leave it.
Posted by: vinca at November 13, 2009 5:31 PM in response to Tenant Pays Water Bill?
It seems to me that if you left it at the curb, the radiator would qualify for DSNY bulk metal collection. You can double-check by calling 311. Even though the value of scrap metal is reduced right now, I doubt your radiator would stay curbside long enough for pickup. We recently put a dishwasher at the curb, and it was gone in less than 1/2 hour via someone with a shopping cart. See: http://www.nyc.gov/html/dsny/html/collection/bulk.shtml#metalbulk
Posted by: vinca at November 13, 2009 3:14 PM in response to Junking a Radiator?
Arkady: Arrived at it in roundabout fashion. My first thought was to describe shape as Darwin's fish without the legs. Tandem to that: the Ichthus. I have a long-standing fascination with the golden ratio and Fibonacci sequence. Started to think there must be a Pythagorean connection that preceded the biblical.
Posted by: vinca at November 13, 2009 11:13 AM in response to Funny Shaped Doorknob
Turns out the shape has a name. In plain English (and good around a salvage yard): almond-shaped. In mystical traditions: mandorla and/or vesica piscis.
Posted by: vinca at November 12, 2009 11:42 PM in response to Funny Shaped Doorknob
You might want to take a look at the Bilco Door site: http://www.bilco.com/foundations/store/scresults.asp
I'm pretty certain Ed Kopel is right re: permit. If you live in a historic district, you'll definitely need a permit, assuming you're allowed to make this change at all.
Posted by: vinca at November 12, 2009 11:36 PM in response to Cellar Access Steps & Hatch
Grandarmy: If you didn't notice it when you went to Brick Industry website, be sure to also check out link 6A - Colorless Coatings.
Posted by: vinca at November 12, 2009 11:17 PM in response to Brownstone paint
Wow, that doorknob's nice! I'd describe it as an oblong with pointed ends. I think there's a Masonic symbol using this shape (formed by the intersection of two circles and two perpendicular lines).
Posted by: vinca at November 12, 2009 10:58 PM in response to Funny Shaped Doorknob
Two links below re: illegal conversions and amending a CO. Consult an architect, and make sure they come well-recommended and with a good track record for this kind of work. Much more to the issue than what you'll read on these links: http://www.randpc.com/ask/ate_CofO.html
http://www.nyc.gov/html/dob/downloads/pdf/dob_Illegal.pdf
Posted by: vinca at November 12, 2009 3:59 PM in response to 2-family vs single?
What SS said. Very often, a locksmith will rekey the cylinder while you wait. In terms of removing and replacing cylinder, a very easy DIY job. Just pay attention when loosening and retightening setscrews.
Posted by: vinca at November 12, 2009 2:08 PM in response to Lock DIY?
VBP: Lime is a primary component of historic mortar formulations and remains a component to this day. In general, and whenever an owner is able to afford all choices, I'd advocate against painting, and definitely against Thorocoat. It's worth noting that stripping old paint through sandblasting or powerwashing also carries the potential for much destruction. OP, check the several relevant titles about historic masonry and mortar found at this link: http://www.nps.gov/history/hps/TPS/briefs/presbhom.htm
Also see #6, "Painting Brick Masonry," at this site: http://www.gobrick.com/html/frmset_thnt.htm
Posted by: vinca at November 12, 2009 2:00 PM in response to Brownstone paint
Could be a failing hot water heater, but could also be a bigger problem with the plumbing. My recommendation: consult a professional.
Posted by: vinca at November 12, 2009 12:29 PM in response to Hot water problem. Help!
As already stated above, do not ignore the business accounting aspect of landlording. Many years ago, the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), offered a great series of classes. That no longer appears to be the case (though their site hints at a future online version of the classes). See:
http://www.nyc.gov/html/hpd/html/buyers/small_prop.shtml
http://www.nyc.gov/html/hpd/html/courses/courses.shtml
The current class listing is minimal (see link below). Click on the “+” sign next to each title to (barely) expand the listings.
http://167.153.4.72/hepclasses/ViewClassList.aspx
I don't know anything about the classes offered at NYU School of Continuing Education, but they do have a listing:
http://www.scps.nyu.edu/course-detail/X63.9107/20101/landlord-tenant-law
Posted by: vinca at November 12, 2009 10:51 AM in response to Becoming a Landlord
Commenting on your leak only: absolutely bring in your own engineer to closely review the condition, both in the building you hope to purchase and in the neighboring building. Proceed with extreme caution if your neighbor remains unresponsive. From experience with facade leaks in my own building, I cannot imagine that you will cure the particular problem you’ve described by making repairs to your building alone. Below are some links that might help you further. Click on the “water penetration” sublinks at the first site on the list:
http://www.gobrick.com/html/frmset_thnt.htm
http://cooperator.com/articles/1583/1/Essential-Elements-of-Your-Building039s-System/Page1.html
http://www.cooperator.com/articles/1407/1/Surface-101/Page1.html
http://www.randpc.com/ask/ate_Leaks.html
http://www.randpc.com/improve/cis_roof_leak.html
Posted by: vinca at November 12, 2009 10:41 AM in response to Water Damage/Mortgage Probs?
Do not take action on your own and then expect the LL to pay for it. If you got a response in the past by calling 311 and HPD, call them again. Make sure you keep a record of the date of your call and the complaint number. It will be in your favor to establish this as an ongoing problem. You should also consider stopping by the help center at Kings County Housing Court for free advice: 141 Livingston Street.
Posted by: vinca at November 12, 2009 9:54 AM in response to LL's Lousy Repair Jobs
Here's another number in case it helps: 718-852-3420.
Don't know if either are still working numbers.
Posted by: vinca at November 11, 2009 6:47 PM in response to Norman Benjamin
Have you tried his old number (718-243-1972), or tried calling Atlantic Antic organizers? Last I heard, he was going to continue his restoration business, even though closing shop doors.
Posted by: vinca at November 11, 2009 12:46 PM in response to Norman Benjamin
If you've ever had a car in NY, and have a good relationship with your mechanic, that's often a good way to find a great car. Ask your (ex)mechanic whether any of his customers are selling.
Posted by: vinca at November 10, 2009 11:50 AM in response to used car dealers
Roof hatch is a means of egress, not ingress. My understanding of what's legal is unlocked from inside, self-locking from outside. See chapter 10 of Building Code: http://www2.iccsafe.org/states/newyorkcity/Building/Building-Frameset.html
Posted by: vinca at November 9, 2009 3:59 PM in response to Fire Dept Inspection
Twelve years is a pretty good run. I encourage you to call your plumber with this question before the unit fails and also before we're deep into heating season. Some signs of a water heater about to fail: problems with pilot light, puddles or leaks, no hot water, gurgling, popping or boiling sounds caused by expanding or contracting parts, by the buildup of sediment, or by overheating. If you want to read more before calling, try: http://www.pyramidregroup.com/images/Water%20Heaters.pdf
http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,397226,00.html
Posted by: vinca at November 9, 2009 3:27 PM in response to Water Heater Diagnostics
Lots of variables involved. Read these links on Succession Rights. Regardless of tenant variables, make sure you understand and meet LL's obligations. Consult your attorney, or if s/he is not VERY knowledgeable in this matter, start by visiting the resource center at Kings County Housing Court, 141 Livingston Street. Also call the DHCR Rent InfoLine (718-739-6400) and/or visit your the Brooklyn borough office: 55 Hanson Place, Room 702, 718-722-4778:
http://www.housingnyc.com/html/resources/dhcr/dhcr30.html
http://www.housingnyc.com/html/resources/faq/succession.html
http://www.dhcr.state.ny.us/Forms/Rent/ra235.pdf
http://www.housingnyc.com/html/resources/faq/rentstab.html
Posted by: vinca at November 9, 2009 8:48 AM in response to Rent Stabilization Succession
Several questions: Did the leak appear only after the parapet work and roof patches? Who declared your roof in good condition? Can the wall(s) in question be accessed from the garden level, rather than by hanging over the roof? Your leak may be originating from the roof, depending on how either/both the roof patches and flashing were applied. It’s also possible that your bricks need to be repointed (i.e., new mortar between the bricks), or maybe also a problem of aged brick. Here are a few links to review. There are certainly more or better links, but these were easiest to find for starters. Leaking roof from a parapet wall:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtsWvjsVY_w
Roofing links and resources (click on “Building Components: Flat Roofs”):
http://www.preservationnation.org/issues/weatherization/resources/roofing.html
Repointing brick:
http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,232787,00.html
Posted by: vinca at November 8, 2009 7:56 PM in response to Water Leak
Very beautiful. Will be both a joy and a trial to restore. Wishing your family much good health and pleasure in your new home.
Posted by: vinca at November 6, 2009 12:23 PM in response to Welcome to The Albemarle Reno Blog
Yes, it's true that LPC cannot make specific contractor recommendations. But, if you take the time to ask, they can sometimes help point you towards available resources that aid in understanding the nature of your repair. I find the Conservancy's contractor lists, though readily available, rather limited (and sometimes even self-serving).
Posted by: vinca at November 6, 2009 10:46 AM in response to Wooden Cornice Ornaments
I am not sure that Deborah Mills does the work you're looking for, but she has a deep background in both aesthetic and historical/preservation woodcarving. I warmly recommend her. If not the right commission for her, I'm sure she can refer you to others: http://www.deborahmillswoodcarving.com/
If a fiberglass replacement is appropriate, consider contacting: http://www.afcornice.com/ (Copiague, LI)
The information at this site might interest/assist you: http://www.nps.gov/history/HPS/TPS/standguide/preserve/preserve_wood.htm
Also, I would consider contacting the LPC's Public Information Officer to see whether they can provide any resource lists: 212-669-7817 or info@lpc.nyc.gov
http://www.nyc.gov/html/lpc/html/working_with/perform_work.shtml
Posted by: vinca at November 5, 2009 8:05 PM in response to Wooden Cornice Ornaments
Glad to hear that all are okay. Definitely call 311 as well as report to police. Rear quarterpanel of my car was destroyed by a taxi many years ago, when cab pulled away from curb without looking. Everyone who saw the damage (police, insurance company, etc.) said it was obvious that damage could only have occurred as reported. Nevertheless, my memory is that it took many months of wasted time to accomplish very little Taxi Commission-wise. My impression from posts above is that complaint process may have been revised since then and that Commission is now more responsive. Hope that's the case.
Posted by: vinca at November 5, 2009 4:33 PM in response to Mrs. B Side-Swiped In The Heights
Others have already said it: Assuming all is as you've described, do not offer a renewal lease. Notify her that you will not be renewing the current lease when it expires. Do not escalate the conflict, as she will perceive it, by offering a renewal with a substantial increase. Make sure you do NOT accept any checks after the expiration date. If she does not vacate and gives you a check, you MUST return it. Keep a log of her calls to you, husband and daughter, and the next time she calls tell her that unless there's an emergency she must communicate in writing. Follow up that conversation in writing yourself. Document the condition of the halls and anything else she's complained about. Make an appointment with her to take pictures of the kitchen and bath she's complaining about. Document the condition of her apartment when she vacates. Return her security deposit promptly if warranted. See: http://www.courts.state.ny.us/courts/nyc/housing/pdfs/Landlordbooklet.pdf
Posted by: vinca at November 5, 2009 3:56 PM in response to Help with Demanding Tenant?
The HDC presentation did not sit well with me, but as you can see from their brochure, they claim to be qualified. Caveat emptor.
Posted by: vinca at November 4, 2009 3:12 PM in response to Easement Audit Nightmare
The City mothballed its leaf pick-up and composting program in 2008. There's a citizen's campaign of sorts that you can join or sign online petition, detailing sites where you can deliver your leaves: http://nycleaves.org/
Posted by: vinca at November 4, 2009 1:57 PM in response to Leafing
A few years back I attended a presentation by the Historic Districts Council, describing themselves as a qualified easement-holding organization for purposes of such charitable donations. I also remember reading about various problems that resulted for property owners who made such donations. I don’t have any of the specifics handy right now, but links below are to the HDC brochure (see page 6, in particular), to an IRS Bulletin, and to some info by the National Trust for Historic Preservation:
http://www.hdc.org/financial%20incentives%20brochure.pdf
Internal Revenue Tax Code Section 170(h)
http://www.irs.gov/irb/2004-28_IRB/ar09.html
http://www.preservationnation.org/resources/legal-resources/easements/nthp-nhra-irs-examinations.html
http://www.preservationnation.org/resources/legal-resources/easements/
Posted by: vinca at November 4, 2009 1:05 PM in response to Easement Audit Nightmare
Bob, that's a good point. Maybe flue is blocked or undersized, or some other kind of exhaust leak. Buy a CO detector and/or call your plumber.
Posted by: vinca at November 4, 2009 10:49 AM in response to Furnace Malfunction?
CG_Ups: If buying new tools, bigger is basically better (more amperage, more strokes per minute, etc.). But not always, and especially for new users. Here's a link to NHS Class: http://www.nhsnyc.org/eastflatbush/services/home-maintenance.htm
Posted by: vinca at November 4, 2009 10:28 AM in response to DIY Beginner Project?
Mostly what Iris said. Under certain circumstances, roommates can initiate overcharge suits (contrary to Modsquad). Too many variables in what you've written, but unlikely your situation is one of those cases. The link below refers primarily to rent-regulated apartments, though you might find it useful. Go to the help desk at Kings County Housing Court and ask your question there: 141 Livingston St.: http://www.housingnyc.com/html/resources/faq/roommates.html
Posted by: vinca at November 4, 2009 10:19 AM in response to Sublet/Share Legal Issue
Responses to Author's Forum Comments
I had very good luck during my renovation with George Taylor in Manhattan.
George Taylor Specialties Inc
76 Franklin St, New York, NY
(212) 226-5369
family-owned, great service, good pricing, fast delivery
Posted by: hancockone at November 20, 2009 5:04 PM in response to in need of old sink!
OP, get a grip...fire-hazard guy? Next you'll be calling in Homeland security. The venting requirement is simple and as mentioned above any plumber can fix it. It's not an emergency, obviously.
Posted by: cmu at November 20, 2009 5:12 PM in response to Dryer Venting Help
BTW, "Pigeon" and "Brownlime" are both me.
(Brownlime is my old name, which I abandoned when I thought of the quintessential NYC name of Pigeon. I accidently posted this thread under my old name).
Posted by: Pigeon at November 20, 2009 5:19 PM in response to Habitable? Financing? Time-Bomb?
Daveinbedsty and all
Thanks for your info.This is not the first building we've bought with RC tenants. But this our first in Brooklyn with a non stabilized building..... we understood the perils of RC but this is obscene amount of damage even the old man who put his boots to warm in the microwave (with metal toes and insoles)did not cause that much harm. If i can prevent them from putting up another Garden hose shower and making it known that this is 24K worth of damaged they cost us. A friend suggested taking them to small claims. This way it would be the incident not rent control laws. There is a question about their lease. She may have been living ells were before her mother died. Does that change things?
Posted by: meme at November 20, 2009 5:43 PM in response to severe dammage by tenants
Regarding your last post.I was wondering how old these people were.
You cannot inherit a RC apartment.
Posted by: modsquad at November 20, 2009 5:51 PM in response to severe dammage by tenants
I believe the daughter had to be in residence 2 years to keep the apartment. Again, you really should speak to a lwyer to go down to housing court and get information. There are circumstances under which an rc/rs tenant can be evicted and possibly endangerment is one of them. And you do have the right to gain access to an apartment to do repairs. That should be in the lease form as well.
Posted by: bxgrl at November 20, 2009 6:12 PM in response to severe dammage by tenants
I worry the plumber will have an ethical duty to report it to and our gas line will be cut off to the street.
Has anyone has any good experiences with self venting dryers and if so, what brand.
thanks again for all of your help.
Posted by: ttneptune at November 20, 2009 6:17 PM in response to Dryer Venting Help
All that is required is a through the wall vent at least 12-18 inches from the window(I believe)...
why would gas be illegal?
http://www.nyc.gov/html/dob/downloads/pdf/fuel_code.pdf
its in here somewhere...
Posted by: smeyer418 at November 20, 2009 6:17 PM in response to Dryer Venting Help
I worry the plumber will have an ethical duty to report it to and our gas line will be cut off to the street.
Has anyone has any good experiences with self venting dryers and if so, what brand.
thanks again for all of your help.
Posted by: ttneptune at November 20, 2009 6:17 PM in response to Dryer Venting Help
"A family member would succeed to the rights of the tenant of record upon the tenant’s permanent departure or death, provided the family member lived with such a primary resident not less than two years"
http://www.housingnyc.com/html/resources/attygenguide.html#8
Posted by: modsquad at November 20, 2009 6:18 PM in response to severe dammage by tenants

Call your plumber. If your building doesn't have one, there are plenty of plumbers well-recommended on this site, Gateway among them.
Posted by: vinca at November 20, 2009 4:15 PM in response to Dryer Venting Help