Building Code in NYC Stairs from parlor level to garden level

edudope
Contributions:1

Hello All, I own a 4 family brownstone and is considering removing the stairs from the parlor level to the garden level. The garden level has it's own entrance and exit. I want to remove the enclosed stairs all together to save some room on the garden level. Does any one know if the building code require a staircase to the garden floor level?

Do you think it'll be a good idea to do the renovation and then file for the paper work. Or should I file for the paperwork and then do the renovation.

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October 27 2008 - US

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Replies (2)

wetdawgs
Contributions:26800

File the paperwork first (i.e. get the permits), then do the renovation. If you do it the opposite route, you might find that you are pulling out all your hard work so that you can meet codes.

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November 02 2008

J Steinberg Design
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Contributions:92

For SURE get your permits first! You can get hit with fines and penalties if not. I would also talk to a really good GC with expereince doing brownstones (that GC will advise you based on his experience and/or consult with an architect or go straight to a structural engineer). Stairs are always structural- so you need to be careful. In most cases, they are sturctural only to carry their load (people using them)- but you are dealing with historic construction and you never know what can happen if you just demo something! You don't want part of your floor joist colapsing!

Get your permits first.