can you add ventilation to a big coop bldg?

Am in the process of buying a unit in mid-1950s coop.  As best I can tell, it doesn’t have exhaust fans from the windowless bathroom or from the kitchen above the stove.  A contractor friend is insisting it really should have these, and as part of my renovations I should put them in. But I can’t imagine how it is possibly standard to add such ventilation systems in a big apartment building like this.  Is it typical that you can do this?  Thanks.

Suzanne

in Bath & Kitchen 13 years and 6 months ago

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brokelin | 13 years and 6 months ago

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you cannot do it, even if possible, unless the board approves of your proposed renovation.  so you have nothing to lose by talking with the board to find out if it can be done.  you may need the help of an architect or contractor to figure out what you are proposing to the board, especially if the rooms are internal, and you need to go through internal shafts, or the roof.  you are not the first person who has moved in, or considered purchasing, and had this question. good rule of thumb to follow…if they have not approved drilling through the masonry to vent for others, they are not likely to approve your request.

mike-the-expeditor | 13 years and 6 months ago

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In a multiple dwelling you’re supposed to have access to a mechanical ventilation system that’s supposed to work. Are you sure that a previous job didn’t seal or close these? As the exhaust system is supposed to be approved by the Buildings Department I would be surprised to see them approve it. Maybe the existing kitchen and bath are not in their original locations? While most co-ops don’t like expanding or moving “wet” floor areas, they may have permitted such a process ages ago.

restorationcontractor | 13 years and 6 months ago

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Having done this before, basically you just need to core drill through the masonry wall. It may require protective scaffolding below however. The installation can be done from the window with a temporary work platform/railing in the window, and the appropriate safety harness.

elbow | 13 years and 6 months ago

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If the bathroom is windowless it is required by code to have centralized mechanical exhaust. If it’s not working, the co-op should handle, same for the kitchen if it doesn’t have a window.