Building code in an old building: grandfathered? Must renovations comply?

Hi, when planning a cosmetic renovation (replacing appliances, cabinetry, & floor/wall tile) — so my contractor is not filing permits — in a walk-up co-op built in 1910, is it necessary to check building code compliance for the layout? I’m planning on using the same functional footprint as what has existed since I bought 10 years ago. Is there a requirement for me to deal with any code issues (electrical and plumbing are fine, I’m told)?

carolynhaft

in Dept. of Buildings (DOB) 2 days ago

1

Please log in, in order to post replies!

1 replies

Newest Oldest

Brownstone Home Inspection | 1 day ago

string(1) "1"
object(WP_User)#4867 (8) {
  ["data"]=>
  object(stdClass)#4847 (12) {
    ["ID"]=>
    string(6) "191038"
    ["user_login"]=>
    string(26) "Brownstone Home Inspection"
    ["user_pass"]=>
    string(63) "$wp$2y$10$2Dh.tVTWca7o8G2o2QDdSeR1sOPSrs2w3wRCKLoxX3NZi3rnCHU0S"
    ["user_nicename"]=>
    string(26) "brownstone-home-inspection"
    ["user_email"]=>
    string(29) "stevehomeinspection@yahoo.com"
    ["user_url"]=>
    string(0) ""
    ["user_registered"]=>
    string(19) "2021-01-20 15:12:39"
    ["user_activation_key"]=>
    string(0) ""
    ["user_status"]=>
    string(1) "0"
    ["display_name"]=>
    string(26) "brownstone home inspection"
    ["spam"]=>
    string(1) "0"
    ["deleted"]=>
    string(1) "0"
  }
  ["ID"]=>
  int(191038)
  ["caps"]=>
  array(2) {
    ["participant"]=>
    bool(true)
    ["subscriber"]=>
    bool(true)
  }
  ["cap_key"]=>
  string(15) "wp_capabilities"
  ["roles"]=>
  array(1) {
    [1]=>
    string(10) "subscriber"
  }
  ["allcaps"]=>
  array(4) {
    ["read"]=>
    bool(true)
    ["level_0"]=>
    bool(true)
    ["participant"]=>
    bool(true)
    ["subscriber"]=>
    bool(true)
  }
  ["filter"]=>
  NULL
  ["site_id":"WP_User":private]=>
  int(1)
}

so first things first. really, any questions like this are best directed to an architect and best not answered by any of us on here, including architects. Second. you use the word “grandfathered”. NOTHING is grandfathered unless it was done legally (built or renovated) and to code under the code the work was done under at the time (so if the the condo had a reno done in 1980 under the 1938 code and it was done legally and all work was done as specified and to code, then the work is grandfathered). If something was done illegally in the past, that could become a problem later if you ever file for a permit or the DOB has reason to enter. The work you are proposing to do now does not “sound” like it requires a permit (generally moving walls, changing window size and location, and egress requires a permit; finish work, including cabinets, does not require a permit). that was a question for an architect, but i think i got it pretty close.

i am a former contractor and have worked in these condos. if you are not moving walls nor moving plumbing fixtures, you “should” not need a permit. If you are changing sinks and faucets but not moving the rough-in in the wall, you “should” be ok. Any plumbing moves further than changing fixtures where they sit now must be directed to a licensed plumber. I would direct questions about any electric to a licensed electrician. know that home improvement contractors (that is what i was) cannot move plumbing fixtures NOR can we do ANY electric work (this includes changing outlets and switches).

by what you say you are doing, you should be fine.

Anyone needed me to review contracts for details, i am starting to do some of that for people. Many of the contracts written by Home Improvement Contractors are lacking detail and the lacking detail allows the contractors an “out” if you end up in court.

Steve
brownstonehomeinspection.com