Compliance & Permits

Yes — Structural and Waterproofing Work Require Special Permits Any project that alters a foundation, structural wall, or drainage system requires a specific DOB permit under NYC Building Code Chapter 33. While basic cosmetic waterproofing may not need a permit, foundation underpinning, sump systems, or exterior excavation do. These involve soil stability and building safety,...

Start With a Full Code Review Before any design work begins, verify compliance with the NYC Building Code, Zoning Resolution, and Energy Conservation Code. Basements converted into living areas must meet standards for ceiling height (minimum 7 feet), egress windows or exits, ventilation, and waterproofing. Always confirm zoning classification—some buildings restrict habitable use below grade....

Understand That ‘Finished’ Doesn’t Always Mean ‘Legal’ Many NYC basements look renovated but fail inspection due to zoning or egress violations. The biggest mistake is skipping the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) update—without it, a basement cannot legally serve as living space. Another frequent issue is improper ceiling height: under 7 feet disqualifies a...

Map Your Zone, Then Align Scope Begin by confirming FEMA flood maps and local NYC requirements. In flood hazard areas, expect elevation, floodproofing, and materials restrictions that influence everything from mechanical locations to door types. Engage a licensed design professional to prepare DOB filings that show flood elevations, flood-damage-resistant materials, and equipment placements above the...

Bedroom vs. Bonus Room—Define the Use First In New York City, calling a space a bedroom triggers habitability and life-safety requirements that a playroom or media lounge may not. The big three are ceiling height (often 7’–0″ minimum with limited obstructions), light & ventilation (natural light or mechanical ventilation meeting code), and egress (a direct...

Know Your Occupancy & Use The permit path hinges on whether your basement remains accessory space or becomes habitable area with sleeping, a bathroom, or a kitchenette. Habitable use triggers clear requirements for minimum ceiling heights, light and ventilation, and egress. If a bedroom is planned, an egress window or door with compliant clear opening...

Detail Life-Safety Items in the Drawings Plan reviewers flag missing or vague details on egress windows (net clear opening, sill height), stair geometry (rise/run/headroom), and guards/handrails (height, continuity, fastening). Put full sections and schedules on the sheets—don’t bury them in notes. Structure & Energy Coordination Dormers and reframing require stamped calculations; coordinate header sizes, tie...

Define a Legal Bedroom Upfront A code-compliant attic bedroom hinges on a few non-negotiables: adequate ceiling height over the required portion of the floor area, a proper means of egress (either a compliant stair or an emergency escape and rescue opening with the correct net clear opening and sill height), sufficient natural light and ventilation...

Landmark Review vs. Standard DOB Permits In New York City, homes inside landmark or historic districts require Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) review for exterior changes in addition to Department of Buildings permits. For attic remodels, that commonly implicates dormers, skylights, roof windows, roof cladding, and any change visible from the public way. Interior-only work may...

The Three Usual Suspects Most re-submittals trace back to (1) egress and stair details, (2) structural clarifications for dormers or reframing, and (3) energy code documentation. Provide full stair sections (rise/run/headroom), window schedules with net clear opening, and guard/handrail details with fastening notes. Structural sheets should show header sizes, connections, and any sistering or collar-tie...