Things to Know Before Renovating Your New York Space

Renovating in New York City presents unique challenges and considerations that differ from other locations. Before embarking on your renovation journey, it's essential to understand the specific requirements, regulations, and best practices that apply to NYC properties. At CooperBuild, we've guided countless clients through successful renovations, and we've compiled this essential guide to help you prepare.

1. Decide on What Kind of Renovation You Need and Want

The first step before beginning any work is to identify what you need and want for your home. Consider whether you're looking for:

• Interior styling and cosmetic renovation: Surface-level changes like painting, new fixtures, or updated finishes
• Single room or partial renovation: Focusing on specific areas like kitchens or bathrooms
• Heavy construction/gut renovation: Complete overhaul involving structural changes, new layouts, or systems upgrades

Knowing what you want will help you set your goals and prepare your budget during the renovation process. Be realistic about your needs versus wants, and prioritize accordingly.

2. Hire the Right Professionals

Before moving forward with planning, it's important to understand the role of construction professionals in your project. Hiring the right team will help guide you through the process of planning and estimating costs.

Consider working with:

• Architects: For design, plans, and permit applications
• Interior designers: For space planning and aesthetic decisions
• General contractors: For construction management and execution
• Specialized consultants: For specific systems like HVAC or electrical

Consulting professionals early will help set your expectations and clarify any uncertainties about the project from start to finish. In New York, experienced professionals also bring invaluable knowledge about navigating the city's complex building regulations.

3. Get a Copy of Your Building's Rules and Regulations

If you live in an apartment, condominium, or co-op building, obtain a copy of your building management's Alteration Agreement. This document outlines the rules governing renovations within the building and specifies the responsibilities of you as the owner and project initiator.

Notable examples of common building regulations include:

• Central air conditioning additions: Many older buildings have electrical limitations that can't support additional HVAC systems.
• "Wet-over-dry" rule: This prohibits adding new bathrooms or extending wet areas that might disrupt plumbing or cause noise issues in units below.
• Project timeline restrictions: Building management often regulates working hours to control noise and minimize disruption to other residents.

You may need to meet with building management and/or board members to discuss renovation terms. Be prepared for approval processes that can take a month or more, depending on the work's extent and whether revisions are required.

4. City Approval and Permits

The Department of Buildings (DOB) categorizes projects requiring approval into two types:

Type I

Projects involving:

• Change in occupancy type (e.g., commercial to residential)
• Combining apartments
• Adding new areas or spaces

Type II

Projects involving modifications to:

• Plumbing lines
• Electrical wiring
• Gas pipe re-routing

Minimal alterations such as cosmetic remodeling typically don't require DOB permits. This includes painting, wallpapering, and retiling or resurfacing floors. Similarly, replacing plumbing and lighting fixtures doesn't require permits if they remain in the same location.

However, a Limited Alteration Application (LAA) may be required for plumbing, electrical, and fire suppression system replacements and repairs.

After work begins, the DOB conducts inspections to ensure compliance with the permitted plans. Upon completion, the DOB will issue a sign-off and officially close the work permit. This final step is crucial—failing to close your permit may prevent you from filing for future construction, creating a time-consuming complication.

5. Plan for Timeline and Budget Contingencies

New York renovations often take longer and cost more than initially anticipated. Common factors that affect timelines include:

• Permit approval delays
• Building management review processes
• Material delivery challenges in urban settings
• Unexpected conditions discovered during demolition

A good rule of thumb is to add 20% to your budget and 25% to your timeline to account for these contingencies.

6. Consider Temporary Living Arrangements

Depending on your renovation's scope, you may need to vacate your home during construction. In New York's tight real estate market, planning these arrangements well in advance is essential. Options include:

• Short-term rentals
• Extended-stay hotels
• Phased renovation approaches that allow partial occupancy

Conclusion

Renovating your New York space requires careful planning, professional guidance, and patience. Understanding the specific requirements of your building and the city will help you navigate the process more smoothly and achieve the results you desire.

At CooperBuild, we specialize in bespoke, luxury renovations and construction throughout New York City. Our experienced team understands the intricacies of NYC renovations and can guide you through every step of the process, from initial planning to final inspections.