Door and Stairs from Parlor to Yard
CREATE A DOOR I want to take an existing window on my parlor floor and insert a door. I want to preserve the window frame/trim and place the door within – probably will have to add a transom above the door. Access will be flush with parlor floor, no step up to go out. CREATE…
CREATE A DOOR
I want to take an existing window on my parlor floor and insert a door. I want to preserve the window frame/trim and place the door within – probably will have to add a transom above the door. Access will be flush with parlor floor, no step up to go out.
CREATE STAIRS TO YARD
Outside, I’d like an iron/steel (non wood) small landing and stairs to the yard. Nothing fancy. The house is NOT landmarked, but is a legal 3 family.
1. Must I file this project with an architect and DOB and get permits? Or am I ok since I am not using fire hazardous materials?
2. Basically popping the window out and putting in a door in that space…I don’t think I am tempting fate with structural woes, right?
3. If I just get it built (no permits, DOB, etc.) can the fire department come (I am guessing that they inspect at some frequency for a 3 family house??) cite me with something? I don’t see what they would cite if it is all metal?
4. Is there any guidebook/web page from the DOB/City of NY on these kinds of questions?
I’ve read some previous posts on this blog, but none really answered these questions.
Thanks very much in advance,
OP Here:
1. The fire escape is outside the 2nd and 3rd floors only. I live on floors 1 & 2.
2. Just starting to look into doors. I understand that a new energy efficient door gets us tax breaks, but we may also like some old/salvage door. Definitely need a screen option, however.
3. I have to look inot the act of filing with DOB. Hopefully it’s nothing more than describing what is being done and then…? What? We get a green light/permit? that allows us to bring in the workers? (Never done this before…)
Thanks everybody!
Your house is 3 family?
where is the fire escape?
where are you getting the door for the window ? I suppose it is custom made ? we want to do the same…
I totally agree with Anon 7:45 – if I were your neighbor, I’d make sure your job was filed with the DOB. It’s not a question of nosiness, I would just like to know if things are 100% done right.
Illegal building matters when it comes time to sell, it’s unattractive to buyers. Illegal building is also a good way to get nailed by your neighbors if you are already under their skin.
Will you be selling? Got any really nosy neighbors? File with DOB.
I would also talk to a structural engineer about the window-door thing. They are good for your peace of mind.
You should speak with an expediter. Technically you need to file it. Will anyone care if you do not? Probably not. Check the DoB website, though. They have several PDF brochures that cover some of these things.