Major Renovation Qualifications

I recently posted a question regarding 2 family to 4 family conversion and the responses I received were very helpful.  So happy to have found this community!  The property we were considering seems to have fallen through.  In any case, I wanted to see if someone could tell me what consitutes a “major renovation.”  If we purchase an existing 4 family property and want to renovate, at what point do we need to bring the property up to date with the current building codes?

emilyfrances

in Permits 12 years and 9 months ago

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jcm | 12 years and 9 months ago

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The Building Code defines “major renovation” as a project thats cost exceeds a percentage of the value of the building. However if you are amending the CofO, you will need to bring the building up to current code, whatever the cost (which at the very least will mean a sprinkler system – not just in the public hall and stair. Generally if the reno involves new kitchens and bathrooms and you are keeping the current use, you can do this as an Alt 2 – minor renovation.  Ignore trolltroll – with a four family you want to follow the law and be squeaky clean.

trolltoll | 12 years and 9 months ago

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Depends what neighborhood you’re in.  In Park Slope your neighbors will turn you in to the authorities just fro funsies.  In Bed-Stuy, you can do your thing.