Permits / Approvals

Hi All – I’m seeking some guidance on how complicated the permitting / DOB approval process can be and whether it makes sense to hire an architect to manage this.

My fiancee and I are just starting the process of renovating our new unit in Brooklyn. Its a two bedroom unit in a pre-war building with 4 floors and around 20 units total (coop).

We plan to: i) replace the floors, ii) replace the kitchen, which will involve removing some walls associated with a laundry space that is not original to the unit (around 2.5x8ft) and iii) remodeling the bathroom.

We have been told that the permitting process is very complicated / we need an architect to manage it for us.

Just wondering if anyone can give any guidance on how complicated the approval/permit process actually is and if its worth hiring an architect to manage it for us (in addition to some design work).

Really appreciate any guidance anyone has on this.

quentinthiery

in General Discussion 6 years and 5 months ago

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Guest User | 6 years and 5 months ago

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If you know what you want to do, look into hiring an engineer who can a) draw the plans to your spec, b) let you know if there are code compliance issues you need to address, and c) expedite the job. Usually a bit cheaper than an architect (+/- $3k for an apartment plus filing fees).

cate | 6 years and 5 months ago

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You can’t move walls without an architect and/or engineer, and since you’re in a co-op, you have to follow the co-op’s rules. An architect is not necessarily horribly costly (a few thousand dollars) and your project will turn out so much better looking — and don’t be surprised if the architect actually saves you money.

smadargolan | 6 years and 5 months ago

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It sounds like what you want to do it borderline. I think the floors, bathroom and the kitchen (as long as you’re not relocating fixtures/gas lines) should theoretically not need permits. Taking down the wall is iffy (technically, I’m sure you absolutely are “supposed to” have a permit, but if it’s that small and definitely not original, you could probably get away with it). The determining factor, however, is your coop board. If they say you have to get a permit for this, then that’s your answer. If not, and they are approving your renovation application, then that is probably fine. Just be really nice to your neighbors.

Guest User | 6 years and 5 months ago

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makes sense to hire an architect to oversee the project, depends on complexity. contractor also can get the permits. do you have a contractor?