Building a Permit to Build: A NYC Saga
So, you wanna build something in the Big Apple, huh? Great! Just one tiny, little detail: you need a building permit. Welcome to the wonderful world of NYC bureaucracy, where time moves slower than a glacier on a diet.
How Long is Really Too Long?
Let's get real. When people say, "It takes forever to get a building permit in NYC," they're not exaggerating. They're understating. It's like trying to herd cats while wearing a blindfold and roller skates. You'll have more luck winning the lottery than getting a speedy permit.
The official line? 1-3 months. Yeah, right. That's like saying a marathon is a brisk jog. More realistically, think 3-6 months, and that's if the building gods are smiling on you.
The Permit Process: A Kafkaesque Nightmare (Okay, Maybe Not That Bad)
Navigating the permit process is like trying to find your way through a maze designed by a particularly sadistic architect. There are forms to fill out, plans to submit, and departments to appease. It's enough to make you question your life choices.
- The Application: This is where the fun begins. You'll need to provide detailed plans, calculations, and enough paperwork to fill a small library. Don't forget to include a blood sample and your firstborn child as a token of your sincerity. Just kidding (about the blood sample and child, anyway).
- The Review Process: This is where your application goes to die... or, at least, to languish in a dusty file cabinet. The Department of Buildings (DOB) will pore over your plans, looking for any excuse to send you back to the drawing board.
- The Revisions: You'll inevitably need to make revisions to your plans. This is where your patience will be tested. It's like playing a never-ending game of ping-pong with the DOB.
- The Final Approval: If you're lucky, you'll eventually get the green light. But don't celebrate just yet. There's still a chance that something could go wrong.
Tips for Surviving the Permit Process
- Hire a Professional: If you can afford it, consider hiring an architect or permit expeditor. They know the ropes and can save you a lot of time and headache.
- Be Patient: This is easier said than done, but it's essential. The permit process is a marathon, not a sprint.
- Stay Organized: Keep copies of all your paperwork and correspondence. This will be helpful if you need to appeal a decision.
- Build Relationships: Get to know the people at the DOB. A friendly face can go a long way.
How to...
- How to speed up the permit process? Unfortunately, there's no magic bullet. But hiring a professional, submitting a complete and accurate application, and being patient can help.
- How to avoid common permit mistakes? Do your research, hire a professional if needed, and double-check everything before submitting your application.
- How to deal with permit delays? Stay calm, communicate with the DOB, and be prepared to make adjustments to your plans.
- How to appeal a permit denial? Carefully review the reasons for the denial and gather evidence to support your appeal.
- How to celebrate when you finally get your permit? With champagne, of course! And a long, well-deserved vacation.