CofO? how difficult?
I’m buying a house in cobble hill thats zoned as 1 family. how hard is it to get the CofO changed to a 2 family? and how long will it take? thanks for the insight!
I’m buying a house in cobble hill thats zoned as 1 family. how hard is it to get the CofO changed to a 2 family? and how long will it take?
thanks for the insight!
Indeed, MDL per se will not apply, but regulations on “occupiable” and “habitable” rooms (kitchens, bedrooms, etc.) many of which are derived from original 1929 MDL, will have to be complied with.
AnArchitect is right about the parking waiver, but incorrect on Multiple Dwelling Law.
MDL only applies to buildings with 3 or more dwelling units.
There is an exception in the Zoning Resolution for required parking in “predominantly built up” areas, so its likely the parking issue can be overcome. The conversion will require that the 2nd unit have all the typical amenities of a “dwelling” as defined in the ZR: kitchen, bath, etc. There are Multiple Dwelling Law items to address in tandem with Life Health and Safety issues…these are what the plan examiners at DoB will focus on. There is a method to the madness with the DoB, so really it’s just about engaging a good architect. I’d say we’re good architects. Please call if you wish to discuss further.
Best –
http://www.agenciegroup.com
212 203-0265
I converted my 1 family to 2 family 5 years ago and found it to be painless. 3 story brownstone. Garden level rental and upper duplex. The wall between apartments and shared hall had to be fire rated. Had to change the wood ladder to the roof to steel. Of course smoke and co detectors – battery or plug in OK. That was about it. You do need an architect to file.
Sorry, but i have to ask: considering that converting will be costly, time consuming and maybe not a sure thing (see paring requirements), why buy a one family if you want a two family?
Also you might want to check if converting to a multifamily creates problems with the lender: they will know about this because once converted, you will need to change the insurance policy to a 2 family.
just found out from Dept of Buildings that the house is zoned R6B. she said the new laws say you have to add a parking space if you change CofO from 1 to 2 family? really? that seems kind of impossible…
thanks for all the info. I used the word “zone” too liberally. the CofO is for a one family dwelling. but I have no idea what the zoning is. I guess I need to call the Building dept?
If a place is ‘zoned’ for 1 family you can’t change it to a 2-family without some political connections.
But extremely unlikely ‘zoned’ for only 1 family in Cobble Hill.
Also, are you absolutely certain that CofO says 1 family?
(many houses don’t even have a CofO)
You will need an architect. Depends upon the zone and reconfiguring to be a real two. This is a typical project, won’t be quick but what construction ever is. You are looking at months start to finish.