Scott Schnall: Questions
I am thinking about engaging Scott Schnall to submit plans to the DOB with regard to converting my C of O from a 1-family to a 2-family and the addition of a steel deck off the parlor floor in the back of my brownstone. (The plans will be prepared by my interior designer that I…
I am thinking about engaging Scott Schnall to submit plans to the DOB with regard to converting my C of O from a 1-family to a 2-family and the addition of a steel deck off the parlor floor in the back of my brownstone. (The plans will be prepared by my interior designer that I will give to Scott for him to adjust/change as necessary for filing with the DOB, obtaining plan appproval, issuing of permits and obtaining a new C of O.)
To those who have used Scott before do you sign a written agreement with him detailing what he will provide (i.e., permits, change of C of O), etc?
With regard to the C of O process does the DOB work through him to set up the appointments for the DOB to inspect the work that was done?
If the DOB finds an issue does Scott assist in trying to get it solved?
Does he accompany the DOB inspector to the inspection?
Does he only get involved if the DOB objects during the inspection to items they agreed to on the plans submitted to them and which construction was based upon?
What is Scott’s payment structure – how much upfront/at the end?
Is the best way to start the pocess with him to simply arrive in his office with my plans in hand and tell what I want to do?
Sorry for all the questions but I truly want to understand what he does amd does not do, payment mechanics and general operating style.
Many thanks!
KAZ
I have used Scott on a few contracts, he is very good, but very hard to get in touch with via phone. He does know his stuff though.
My thanks to all!
We used Schnall on our renovation 5 years ago. He did get the job done, but it was a hassle.
Speaking with them on the phone was hectic, when we did get through to one of them.
They lost our plans at a key point in the process and we lost about two weeks time as a result.
Next time, I’ll work with an office staffed by people willing and able to explain things and get things done right….as opposed to just getting them done.
Check other sites for recommendations. I think parkslopeparents.com has a recommendations section that includes expeditors, for instance.
Good luck.
I have used Scott Schnall for two townhouse projects. He get things done. Phil is very helpful. Going in person is the way to go to get answers because their phone line is always busy. They are very knowledgeable, they know the ins and outs of the DOB. Payment is usually up front. They will charge for changes as necessary during the project but these are usually minimal. No contract, sometimes just one sheet of paper with up front charge. No they don’t go to inspections, your contractor does or plumber or electrician, or designer depending on what inspection is happening. They follow up after the inspections should anything come up and they will amend as necessary. Hope you find this helpful. I recommend him.
KAZ…people skills are one thing, but all of what you’re asking about is contractual, i.e. what’s his payment schedule. I haven’t worked with Scott, so don’t have anything good/bad to pass on about him specifically, but if I couldn’t get straightforward answers to your questions, it would worry me.
I use that office a lot. Go there and talk to Phil. 11am is the best time to go, and not on Monday or Thursday if you can help it. Th office is closed Friday, too. The more they do , the more it will cost you. Usually your architect and contractor would take care of lots of the services you are asking about, ie inspections.
Phil is a nice guy and helpful, but they are less then clear on the phone.
I’ve used Scott as an expediter. He did get my job done. His office is very busy and they don’t always answer phones, so I know what you’re saying about the lack of customer service. However, I don’t see how our comments are going to be productive for you. You really need to be able to speak direct with people you hire.
I hear that Scott’s people skills are less than great – so I was hoping the Brownstone community could help me with these questions based on their experiences with Scott and make my experience with him more effecient.
Thanks.
KAZ
To point out the obvious…wouldn’t it be much more efficient to ask Scott these questions directly?