Replace existing stairs

Hi We would like to replace the stairs to our basement. We have adequate headroom but the existing opening isn’t 36″. We don’t plan to replace the main staircase directly above which goes from parlor floor to top floor, so widening the floor opening for basement stairs isn’t really an option. What are our options? I think I read that there is some sort of exception for existing stairs but getting inconsistent info from people involved in our project. Thanks!

kslcb

in Renovation 9 years and 4 months ago

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arch111 | 9 years and 3 months ago

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I am not sure with NYC code but I am 100% certain about NY state code. if you alter or rebuild a basement stair it must meet code requirements. We had to leave a basement stair as is on one job when when the entire basement was renovated due to this. On the flip side, when renovating a basement, you do not need to bring the stair up to code. http://nyc-dob.com

slopefarm | 9 years and 3 months ago

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I am a homeowner, not a contractor or architect, so this is not professional advice. We replaced narrow stairs (garden level to parlor floor) as part of an Alt-2 job back in the wild west days of 2006\. Job was self-cert except for mechanicals (plumbing and electrical), so DOB never inspected the house. But it seems to me you would be merely repairing or replacing existing conditions. If your filed plans did not involve moving walls to widen the stairs and the plans were approved, it seems to me you should be able to repair or replace the existing stairs. FWIW, we had a sub build an entire set of stairs in the shop and then just install the full staircase in place of the old. We replaced the stairs so that we could add a turn at the top, which allowed us to lengthen the kitchen.

kslcb | 9 years and 3 months ago

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Hi Thanks for reply. Yes, job is permitted. Just wondering if on inspection how likeky the inspector is to challenge stairs as existing. Can any work be done to rehab (i.e. Storage cabinets built below)?

daveinbedstuy | 9 years and 3 months ago

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Assuming you are doing a permitted job, Are you saying that some of them are telling you that the width has to meet code if they are replaced? If so, make repairs as necessary without reconstructing the whole stairwell. Or, wait until the job is finished and signed off and then repair them. Hard to know without more info what the issues are.

mozeeatupu | 9 years and 3 months ago

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Replace with metal stairs