*If* I wanted to do some renovation work on a co-op, what would I be in for, generally speaking?

Hi everyone. I had posted on here about a month ago about doing a kitchen reno for a co-op apt I was considering buying. The co-op in question was in Concord Village. Then I kinda fell off the planet, sorry.

I’m just wondering what I would be in store for with renovation? I’m afraid I might be opening a can of worms here. Especially in regard to electrical work, which I think I may have to do. 

I was only thinking in terms of getting estimates, but then I realized from reading other posts on the forum that in addition to board approval, I’d probably need permits, inspections, the whole nine yards. Am I on track with what I am imagining or am I going overboard?

If you are not comfortable responding on the forum, you can email me at gimmeshelterpls@gmail.com

Thanks!

gimmeshelter

in Co-Op Related 13 years and 9 months ago

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greenmountain | 13 years and 9 months ago

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No, not going overboard, but coop managements are increasingly strict.  You can’t go wrong if you follow the rules.  But, you won’t need an architect to file a permit if you just stick to the existing floor plan and install new fixtures where you already have similar fixtures.   I have not worked in Concord Village, but it is so near to the Navy Yard, my business home, I would very much like to work there. Any CL share holders considering bath and kitchen renovations, please let me know if you think my service could meet your needs aaron@gmcandd.com

greenmountain | 13 years and 9 months ago

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Coop management may ask you for the license numbers of your electrician and plumber as part of your alteration agreement.  These “licensed trades” are regulated by the NYC Dept of Buildings, which also issues permits and inspects jobs for code compliance.  Maybe they will also ask you for the license number of your contractor, called a “Home Improvement Contractor.”  HIC’s are regulated by the NYC Dept of Consumer Affairs, which is concerned with ethical behavior, not construction skills, knowledge or experience.

Licensed electricians and plumbers may apply for and perform work under permits which they file themselves for jobs like yours.  HIC’s can “pull permits,” for work they will perform under their company names, but the applications are done by architects and engineers.

Your management requires you to hire an insured contractor.  Acceptable contractors have General Commercial Liability and Workers Compensation insurance.  There are exceptions, but state law requires employees to be insured and your coop requires your contractor to insure the corporation, board members and management.  You also want to be insured.

The service I offer involves a direct relationship with my client in collaboration with an architect or engineer.  You can email me from the directory under Green Mountain Construction & Design, or call me to schedule a free initial consultation or discuss any questions you may have.

gimmeshelter | 13 years and 9 months ago

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Now why didn’t I think of that? 😉 Thank you both! (Love the Thurston Howell pic, DIBS)

daveinbedstuy | 13 years and 9 months ago

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What denton said.  When I lived in a Manhattan condo, things went quite “smoothly” by using the contractors that the Super had recommended

denton | 13 years and 9 months ago

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CV is a big place, they probably have procedures in place for renos. You should ask the managing agent.