full bathroom in the cellar, interpretation of buildings bulletin 2011-010

The Buildings Bulletin 2011-011 indicated it is possible to legally create a bathroom in the cellar containing 3 fixtures. We have spoke to 2 builders, each consulted with their own architect, but came back with different responses and all comes down to the interpretation of the requirements in section B. I thought I’d check with folks on this forum, perhaps someone has experience that they can share in this area. 1) Are 2 stairs required? What if a single stair that can meet both requirement, then 1 stair would suffice? 2) On legalizing full bathroom in cellar, would cellar needs be added to the floor-area calculation and falls within the maximum allowance as specified within the zoning specification? Thank you and Happy Holidays, Jim

jlqnsny

in Building Code 10 years and 9 months ago

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arch111 | 10 years and 9 months ago

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1) yes stairs and an “operable door” 2) No, does not count towards FAR, it’s still a Cellar. you also need to file a restrictive declaration with the city register. The cellar needs to be open except for the small rooms allowed boiler room needs 1 hr construction This only applies to 1 or 2 fam. dwellings http://nyc-dob.com

bklyngirl | 10 years and 9 months ago

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Basically it can be a nightmare. for DoB you must have egress and natural light and ventilation and most NYC basements (in Brownstones) are illegal. Also you have to deal with the problem of getting the water and all the fluids that a bathroom generates to get sucked back above grade. I don’t have a bathroom but I do have a set of basement washer/dryers for my tenants and the plumber is in there several times a year. But best bet is to find a great GC and be prepared to file all sorts of permits to get the job in right.

jockdeboeraia | 10 years and 9 months ago

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Just have your architect file and follow the bulletin. If you cannot comply then you need to add what is missing to make it comply.