DOB strategy advice - re-post
Hi – we are doing a major renovation and have some slightly up for interpretation code issues that, if handled wrong, could snowball into a much more complicated renovation. Our architect generally uses code consultants who will tell us the letter of the law and expediters who generally are just delivering paperwork. I’m trying to find someone who can help with the strategy of what we present to the DOB and how we present it. Once upon a time I would have gone to Schnall for this but now I don’t know. Does my request make sense and does anyone have recommendations?

arewedoneyet
in General Discussion 3 years and 9 months ago
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helen40
in General Discussion 3 years and 8 months ago
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Not a fan that its a part of the NY construction experience, but expeditors just dont “deliver paperwork.” A good expeditor knows the code and knows what will and not fly with DOB. The current code is the code, but there are numerous ways to build, renovate, expand, etc. Some trigger other requirements, and then the snowball begins.
Listen to @cate and find an architect who has a relationship with a good expeditor.

cate | 3 years and 9 months ago
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I am no expert on code issues but generally speaking, based on what I have gleaned on these boards over the years re the issues you mention, you will need to file under old pre ’68 code, and you will have to have a one- or two-family house. If you are making substantial alterations such as putting on an addition or essentially creating a new house inside an old one, the DOB can require everything conform to modern code. (We have a two-family and our approach has been to update within the existing footprint and without moving any plumbing fixtures.)

arewedoneyet | 3 years and 9 months ago
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Y – I’m not looking for Schnall’s approach or to break the law. It seems like some code requirements are interpreted in older homes rather than clearly black and white. I’m trying to avoid widening stairways, putting in sprinklers, etc. and am not sure the best way to approach these issues with the DOB.

MDR | 3 years and 9 months ago
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Schnall is out of business because he repeatedly falsified documents to get approvals. You shouldn’t want someone like that. If professionals tell you the “letter of the law” that may be because they want to stay in business.

lkrshacmzcy | 3 years and 9 months ago
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Just know this as well: the DOB is starting to fine for failed inspections.

mikehouse33 | 3 years and 9 months ago
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Hi I can take a look if you want to email me?
mike.house.architect@gmail.com