Renovating a kitchen or bathroom in New York City can dramatically brighten up your life, improve your daily living—and your property value. But if you live in a co-op or apartment building, there’s one important step you can’t skip: getting approval from your co-op board. NYC co-op boards and condo management companies are notoriously strict when it comes to renovations, especially when plumbing, electrical or structural changes are involved.

The team at Above Remodeling has helped countless New Yorkers navigate the sometimes complex maze of approvals. Here’s what you need to know before you start to act on any of your dream changes.

1. Understand Your Building’s Renovation Policy

Before making any plans or even hiring a NYC contractor, request a copy of your building’s alteration agreement. This document lays out the rules and procedures for making changes to your unit. It typically includes:

  • Hours during which work can be done
  • Types of renovations allowed
  • Permits required
  • Insurance requirements
  • Project scope limitations

2. Hire a Licensed NYC Contractor

Your building’s board or management company will likely require that all work be done by a licensed and insured contractor. At Above Remodeling, we are fully licensed and insured to perform kitchen and bathroom renovations throughout NYC—including Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens co-ops and condos. 

Chances are we may have already worked in your building, which gives us an advantage in knowing the specific process. We have experience dealing with managing agents and board requirements, so we can help streamline the paperwork and approval process. 

3. Prepare and Submit A Detailed Proposal

Boards want to see that you’ve done your homework and are organized. The more detailed and organized your proposal, the faster the review process will go. Your renovation proposal should include:

  • A detailed scope of work
  • Architectural drawings (especially if layout changes are involved)
  • Plumbing and electrical plans
  • List of materials and appliances
  • Timeline for the project
  • Proof of contractor insurance and licenses

4. File with the Department of Buildings (DOB)

Depending on the scope of your renovation, you may also need to file permits with the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB). This is especially common for:

Moving plumbing fixtures
Adding or altering electrical lines
Removing walls or changing layouts

DOB filings often require sign-off by a registered architect or professional engineer, and inspections may be required. Your contractor should manage this process—but as a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to ensure it’s done properly.

5. Get Board Approval

Once you’ve submitted your proposal, expect the board to take several weeks, perhaps longer, to review and respond. Some co-ops may hire an engineer or architect to review your plans, which can slow down the process and add fees.

Tips for speeding up approval:

  • Be responsive to questions or revision requests
  • Provide all documents in digital and printed formats
  • Include insurance certificates early to avoid delays

Boards aren’t just looking at the renovation’s impact on your apartment—they’re also concerned about noise, disruption, liability and potential damage to the building. Being transparent and cooperative can go a long way.

6. Comply with Building Rules During Construction

Once your renovation is approved, make sure you and your contractor comply with:

  • Work hours (typically weekdays, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
  • Elevator reservations for material transport
  • Protection of common areas (hallways, floors)
  • Noise and dust management

Violating these rules can lead to fines, stop-work orders, or even revocation of your renovation approval!

7. Get Final Sign-Off

After construction is complete, your building may require a post-renovation inspection to ensure work was done to code and according to the approved plans. The DOB may also require final inspections and sign-offs if permits were filed.

Keep copies of:

  • Permit closures
  • Contractor affidavits
  • Inspection reports
  • “As-built” plans if changes were made during construction

The best piece of advise is do not attempt to go through this process alone. New York City apartment renovations are exciting—but getting the proper approvals is critical to avoid costly delays or legal issues. The Above Remodeling team specializes in navigating co-op board approvals and Department of Buildings filings so your kitchen or bathroom renovations run smoothly from start to finish.

Whether you’re in Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Queens, the Above Remodeling team is well qualified to help you transform your space, take care of the red tape and all the details so you don’t have to.

If you are ready to start the process on a kitchen or bathroom remodel in your NYC apartment, contact us for a complimentary estimate. We will professionally approach all aspects of your renovation project and address your concerns so you can look forward to enjoying your new space.

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