Transforming your space in the city that never sleeps requires proper thought and planning. At Zicklin Contracting, we’ve helped countless New Yorkers turn their apartment dreams into reality. Here’s your comprehensive guide to navigating the unique challenges of renovating in the Big Apple.
NYC’s Unique Renovation Landscape: A Snap Shot
Renovating in New York City isn’t like anywhere else. The combination of co-op boards, landmark buildings, and the Department of Buildings regulations create a multi-layered system of checks that need to be obtained long before you start construction. Your renovation journey begins by first determining the permissions required.
Most NYC buildings require renovation plans to be approved by the building management. In co-operatives (which are more common), these rules tend to get tighter than condos, and some buildings even restrict renovations during certain months. Before you fall in love with that waterfall countertop or open concept design, check your building’s alteration agreement for any restrictions.
Pre-Renovation Planning
The outcome of your renovation project entirely depends on how well you prepare yourself.
Start with a clear vision but remain flexible. Some New York apartments can pull a fast one on you once work commences. Those charming pre-war buildings might hide uneven floors or outdated wiring behind their walls.
Separate non-negotiables from nice-to-haves. Manhattan’s premium square footage means making smart choices about where to allocate your budget. Perhaps that spa bathroom takes priority over the chef’s kitchen?
Interview multiple contractors with specific NYC experience. They should understand local building codes, have relationships with the Department of Buildings, and experience dealing with co-op boards. At Zicklin Contracting, we specialize exclusively in NYC renovations, bringing decades of local expertise to every project.
