When it comes to renovating a home in New York City, one of the most important steps is obtaining the necessary permits. The process of getting approval for a project can take anywhere from two to four weeks, depending on the complexity of the project and whether or not permits are required. In most cases, a building permit is needed for any structural work, such as replacing shingles, performing repairs, or reroofing. The first step is to determine what permits are needed and then submit applications and construction plans.
This process is usually overseen by the building management company, which collects all the required documentation and submits it to the board in the form of a package. Once the board receives the package, they will review it and give their approval. If you have hired a contractor for your project, they will usually take care of obtaining the permit. However, if you decide to do it yourself, you will be considered a contractor (at least in the eyes of the city) and responsible should any problems arise with the construction.
The most common information requested is a detailed scope of work, drawings showing current and proposed conditions, the contractor's licenses and insurance, and any processing fees the building requires. It's important to note that even minor repairs must be done by a licensed roofing contractor and part of doing the job right is getting the proper permits. If you don't obtain a permit for your roofing project and your landlord files an insurance claim for damage, the insurance company has the right to deny it. Unpermitted construction can also reduce the value of your home and you may even have to adapt it to code as a condition of sale. In conclusion, obtaining permits for a roofing project is an essential step in ensuring that your renovation project goes smoothly. It's best to hire a licensed contractor who can take care of this process for you or you can do it yourself if you have all the necessary information.