When do I need architect/DOB approval?
You’re bedroom is 20’x40’…wow. I am sure about the regs. I understand that in minor cases the regulations seem/are excessive, but the DOB wants to insure that no one’s doing anything that creates substandard or dangerous conditions, and they don’t feel that property owners should be the ones making those decisions. Its a very extreme example, but the property owner in Queens a couple of years ago probably thought “I’m just putting up a few walls” in his apartment building, but when there was a fire and fire fighters died because they couldn’t find their way out of the maze of rentable rooms he’d created, the owner went to jail. Having said that, would I have filed for the construction of that wall if it was my townhouse…no. I also jaywalk pretty frequently.
jcarch
in Co-Op Related 13 years and 5 months ago
8
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jty2 | 13 years and 5 months ago
I am looking at moving some walls (that were not original and put up by the prior owner in an apartment). Can someone clarify when I need an architect or DOB approval? I assume no approval is required if there is no electrical/plumbing in the walls. How about if there is just some electrical? This is in a coop so I probably need to do everything “by the book.” Thanks!
daveinbedstuy | 13 years and 5 months ago
Yes, you have to ask the coop. technically, since electricity is involved, it requires a permit, otherwise, no if they are “temporary” walls. Either way, I wouldn’t bother for a house but that also depends upon the neighbors in many neighborhoods.
jockdeboeraia | 13 years and 5 months ago
Your coop has all of the power to enforce, but if you are moving walls, then you are requried by DOB to get a permit.
ladyarchitect | 13 years and 5 months ago
i think i hear an echo!
expert_textpert | 13 years and 5 months ago
“I assume no approval is required if there is no electrical/plumbing in the walls.” Your assumption is wrong. You NEED to file with the DOB to remove/add walls regardless whether there is any plumbing/electrical. Removing/adding walls is considered construction and needs to be filed. Lots of homeowners do work without a permit….doesn’t make it right. You’re in a co-op. Stricter rules. They will most definetely insist you file for a permit. Hire an architect to draw the plans, submit to your co-op board for approval, file for a permit, hire licensed contractor, do the work, sign off on job.
shahnandersen
in Co-Op Related 13 years and 5 months ago
Did the prior occupant file with DOB when he erected the walls?
jcarch | 13 years and 5 months ago
danebklyn…you are incorrect. Whether the wall’s structural or not is irrelevant. DOB’s concerned with whether you’re maintaining the legally required natural light and air for habitable rooms, whether you’re violating handicapped accessibility requirements, whether you’re meeting minimum requirements for room sizes, and whether you’re reconfiguration is meets fire egress requirements for getting out of the apartment. Oh, and they’ll be interested in whether it’s a load bearing wall or not.
jty2 | 13 years and 5 months ago
What is the best way to see if the prior owner filed plans with DOB when they originally put up the walls? (I don’t see anything, but am not that familiar with the DOB system). Thanks for all the helpful info! If it this involved to take down 2 non-load bearing walls, I may not bother.