Non-Conforming and Non-Complying in NYC
Hamoun Niknejad2026-04-01T04:29:32+00:00When you start any project like renovation, enlargement, legalization, or a change of use project, zoning can be the most complicated part of it. Many owners assume that if a building has existed for years, it’s confirmation to have it the same as before, even after alteration or modification.There are two zoning terminologies, non-conforming and non-complying, that you need to be aware of before starting any project, especially in New York City. They sound similar, and people sometimes use them...
New York City Occupancy Group
Hamoun Niknejad2026-04-01T15:27:33+00:00When people talk about New York City building rules, one of the terms that comes up often is occupancy group classification. This is a basic but very important part of the NYC Building Code because it helps determine how a building or space is classified based on its main use.In simple words, the NYC Department of Buildings uses occupancy groups to organize buildings and interior spaces according to how they function. That classification affects many parts of a project, including...
Market Value Calculation for Alterations in NYC
Hamoun Niknejad2026-09-07T03:07:51+00:00When renovating an existing building in New York City, the construction cost can affect much more than the project budget.Under NYC Building Code Section 901.9.4, the value of proposed alterations compared with the value of the existing building can trigger additional fire-protection and life-safety requirements.For this reason, architects and owners should evaluate alteration value early in the architectural design and DOB filing process.Why Does Alteration Value Matter?BC 901.9.4 establishes percentage thresholds for existing buildings undergoing alterations.60% RuleIf:Value of Alterations...
When Do You Need to Hire a Construction Superintendent in NYC?
Hamoun Niknejad2026-09-06T16:38:21+00:00If you are planning construction in New York City, you may hear your architect, contractor, or DOB filing representative say:“This project requires a Construction Superintendent.”For many property owners, that immediately creates two questions:What exactly does a Construction Superintendent do, and when is one actually required?A Construction Superintendent, often abbreviated as CS, is not simply another person added to the project team. On certain New York City construction and demolition projects, a registered Construction Superintendent is required by the NYC Building...