Plain-English planning resources for apartment, townhouse, and commercial renovation in New York City. These guides explain common coordination questions and point to NYC agency resources where relevant.
Guides for owners
Use the alteration agreement guide to prepare for a co-op or condo building submission, understand common documents, and account for the DOB NOW board-attestation step. The permit guide explains work scope, filing roles, Alt-1 and Alt-2 in general terms, and close-out.
The renovation cost guide focuses on the factors that shape estimates and a practical way to compare proposals, without generic price figures. The landmarks guide explains how preservation review may relate to visible exterior work and DOB filings. Each project still needs advice from its architect or expediter.
Read by topic
Co-op alteration agreements in NYC covers building review, package preparation, logistics, and an owner checklist.
DOB permits for apartment renovations explains the general filing process and professional roles.
What drives renovation estimates covers scope, systems, finishes, access, and bid comparison.
Landmarked brownstone renovation covers LPC and DOB sequencing.
Use official sources
The guides link to NYC Department of Buildings and Department of Consumer and Worker Protection materials. Agency requirements can change and project specifics matter, so confirm current rules with the relevant agency and the registered design professional working on the project.