Undergoing full apartment renovation can be very costly and we’re not just talking about materials and labor here, if you take the work permits you need to secure into account, just to get the work started in your apartment, the costs can be steeper than you think. This is why it is important to know exactly what you’re getting into before even getting work started. Getting approval from the New York Department of Buildings is a requirement for anyone who plans to undergo major remodeling. Whether you’re tearing down a wall or you’re adding partitions to your floor plan, hiring someone to work on your plumbing or electrical wiring, and even window installation requires a work permit from the DOB.
So how much does it cost to get a work permit from the DOB? In the case of a full apartment renovation, you should expect to spend more than $5000 on permits alone. This is because the NYC Department of Buildings requires anyone who plans an NYC renovation project to employ the services of an Architect who is duly licensed and registered by the state of New York or at the very least, a Professional Engineer. This is required to ensure that the contractor does not accidentally damage any foundations of the main building. All blueprints and documents pertaining to your renovation must be submitted to the department and they will then charge you based on the cost of your remodel.
Most building associations require apartment owners to secure a permit from the state before they allow an actual renovation but there are instances where they allow you to go ahead without one. If you’re having minor work done, like adding cabinetry, refinishing your flooring, or retiling your bathroom or kitchen, you need not necessarily apply for a permit since the scope of work does not include major changes in the foundation and layout of your apartment unit.
Before undergoing full apartment renovation, make sure that you have all the necessary permits before the project starts, as violating this requirement can have dire consequences.
While the costs of permits alone might sound discouraging, you also have to weigh out your options. If your apartment will greatly benefit from the improvements you have planned for it, then the benefits should outweigh the costs in the end. The important thing is to be prepared for what’s ahead.