Potential Duplex Renovation in Queens

I am trying to rectify an illegal basement conversion. As I previously mentioned in my last post, I filed for the permit through a professionally certified engineer in 2004. I was looking into converting the first floor and basement into a duplex instead of converting into a three family. My reasoning wont have to do sprinklers, have a huge increase in taxes, and change of the certificate of occupancy. House is currently a two-family. I want to do this correct this time. If I file an Alt-2 under Directive 14 for the plans for the duplex, will i have to file a Alt-1 to get a new certificate of occupancy that states the use of the first floor and basement as a duplex? The original certificate of occupancy states second floor, first floor, and cellar.

hithere

in General Discussion 9 years and 11 months ago

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jimhillra | 9 years and 11 months ago

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cubie, there’s a whole lot going on here, and I don’t think I know enough to answer your questions in this format, and I don’t want to steer you wrong. Feel free to call me some time.

Jim Hill, RA, LEED AP
Urban Pioneering Architecture, DPC
646-309-7259

hithere | 9 years and 11 months ago

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Im still debating which would be the more worthwhile endeavor converting to duplex (1st floor w/cellar) or three-family. I also was considering never renting out the basement but how do I account for the previous work. It has a kitchen, 3-piece bathroom, and excavation to make it above grade. Is there anyway I could remove the stove and shower and not have any problems with the dob?

hithere | 9 years and 11 months ago

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Thank you for your reply. That makes a lot of sense. I see a lot of people performing this work on my block and not filing an Alt 1 after the work is completed. Would the filing of the Alt 1 for a new C of O, create the need to sprinkler the building if the house remains a two-family with the duplex? Are there any other major renovation costs that often are overlooked when legalizing a duplex?

jimhillra | 9 years and 11 months ago

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Unless you have a C of O that specifically says the cellar is part of the first floor dwelling unit, then yes, it needs to be modified to allow the change of use for the cellar.

Keep in mind that the Directive 14 (D14) is different than a professionally certified application. If you file the Alt 2 D14, but not professionally certified, you will have a full plan review prior to permitting. This should come up in the plan review.

If it does not come up, you can go ahead with the work, and you’ll get your D14 construction signoff without a construction inspection, but you’ll still be using the house contrary to the C of O and could get violations for that.

I would strongly encourage you to file the Alt 1 as a fully reviewed application to get the new C of O, and avoid any possible future violations.

hithere | 9 years and 11 months ago

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Would I need to get a new certificate of occupancy for the cellar becoming part of the duplex?