What to do about Unpermited Building?

My neighbor has put in huge concrete footings — apparently intending to build an addition that looks like it will extend far back into the yard. Checking DOB there are no permits. Is it true that code requires 30 ft from structure to back of lot (R5 zoning)? The structure that seems intended will diminish my back yard views and privacy. Should I confront my neighbor? Or report to 311? Either way I’m afraid that this will ruin any hope of a cordial relationship with the neighbor. (I am new to the house/neighborhood). Any advice?

freckles1

in Building Code 9 years and 2 months ago

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17 replies

raisagur | 6 years and 2 months ago

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I know this is an older post but I imagine this comes up for people a lot these days. My name is Adam Courtney and about 2 years ago we started a firm that helps people specifically deal with the challenges of a neighbor building next door. We help negotiate an “Access Agreement” that requires the builder to have everything form a site safety plan to the proper insurance in case of any problems.

If anyone has any questions, please feel to reach out here or take a look at our website, http://www.neighboradvisors.com.

ottoparts | 9 years and 1 month ago

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Definitely report. I believe this can even be done anonymously. While there are light and privacy concerns, worse in my view could be off-permit electrical or plumbing which will DEFINITELY become your problem if something should go wrong, as this is an adjoining structure. This is a safety issue for you and your neighbors.

Guest User | 9 years and 1 month ago

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Life Professionals Garrett from Saint-Felicien, has pastimes for example freshwater aquariums, Clash of Clans hack and smoking pipes. Was these days visiting Historic Centre of Rome.

donuttle

in Building Code 9 years and 1 month ago

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Hi there — a few readers have responded to your question over here as well: http://www.brownstoner.com/blog/2016/03/construction-without-permit-brooklyn-dob/

donuttle

in Building Code 9 years and 1 month ago

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Hi there — a few readers have responded to your question over here as well: http://www.brownstoner.com/blog/2016/03/construction-without-permit-brooklyn-dob/

cate | 9 years and 1 month ago

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I would be friendly and polite. You’re new to the block, why make an enemy over a misunderstanding? Let the construction situation work itself out. You don’t know if these footings have been here for years, if it’s for a deck, or a deck he’s removing. Or if it requires a permit. Not everything requires a permit.

bigbubba | 9 years and 1 month ago

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Even if the construction is done to code, it is still being done without permits, so it is illegal. You should call 311 and report the fool.

espeon | 9 years and 2 months ago

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There seems to be earth piled up from excavation so there may be footings under those columns but hard to tell. There also seems to be a slab which was probably the surface of the yard. Whatever the intention is, the method of construction is either just strange or strange and bad.

carmenf | 9 years and 2 months ago

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Is there a foundation poured under that? Those do not look like real footings to me. Could be a deck?

freckles1 | 9 years and 2 months ago

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Attempting to upload again…

freckles1 | 9 years and 2 months ago

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It is not landmarked. The existing structure had a 30′ rear yard as does my property. See pictures attached of footings that are now in back of the house.

shahnandersen

in Building Code 9 years and 2 months ago

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Basically a 30′ year yard is required for residences in all residential districts EXCEPT for lots (or portions of lots) within 100 feet of a corner where no rear yard is required. However, as others said, a permit is required in any case.

slopefarm | 9 years and 2 months ago

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Many areas do require 30 foot setback from rear property line, but you will want to confirm with zoning map and ordinance for your location. If I had a neighbor building deep into the rear yard past the 30 foot line, with an unfiled job, no less, I would not let my outrage be tempered by worries about good relations with my neighbor. Does anyone know whether, if you make your 311 complaint online, can you upload photos etc? Make a good record of this — photos, contemporaneous notes, etc.

BobMarvin | 9 years and 2 months ago

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Is it possible that the footings are for a low ground-level deck, rather than a structure?

carmenf | 9 years and 2 months ago

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If you call 311, they’ll likely send someone right away (which is maybe what you need!) It’s also likely that other neighbors have noticed this work, so the owner may not be able to pinpoint that you’re the one who called. I agree that this owner sounds like they don’t care about doing things the right and legal way, and that you’re unlikely to get a resolution by meeting with him directly.

resident2 | 9 years and 2 months ago

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If there is no record of approved plans or permits for any kind of building, extension or restoration of pre-existing etc. etc. You are obviously dealing with someone that does not care about the consequences of their actions either by ignorance, arrogance or lack of intelligence, so I would not bother trying to reason with such a person. Call 311 but also call your local community board to get advice.

Arkady | 9 years and 2 months ago

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There are various constraints on size. Are you in a Landmark area? I’d certainly move on it quickly if it is going to have a significant impact on you. Are you sure he isn’t replacing something that had been there before you moved? Maybe talk to him first & then take official steps.