Section 28-101.4.3 of the 2014 New York City Construction Code sets forth the policies that govern optional use of the 1968 building code for alteration of existing buildings. At the building owner’s discretion, and of course subject to approval, alterations to a particular building may follow the 1968 building code with the following exceptions:
- Fuel gas, plumbing and mechanical work
- Fire Protection Systems
- Elevator, conveyors and amusement rides
- Safety during construction operations (chapter 32)
- Accessibility
- Encroachments into public right of way
- Administration and Enforcements
- Special Inspections
- Materials
- Security Grill
- Energy Efficiency
- Roof coverings and replacements
- Handrails
- Guards
- Areas of Special Flood Hazards
- Structural
- Emergency and Stand-by powers (BC 27)
- Parking garage and open parking - vehicle charging (LL 130/2013)
- Mold protection
Some of these exceptions though refer you to "special provisions for prior code buildings" as follows:
Exception 1:
Mechanical: MC 102.4
Fuel Gas: FGC 102.4
Plumbing: PC 102.4
Exception 2:
Fire Protection: BC 901
Exception 3:
Elevators: BC 3001
Exception 5:
Accessibility: BC 1101
Exception 16:
Structural: BC 1601
Here are a few highlights of what that means:
In Fuel gas, plumbing and mechanical work, the installation of and work on all appliances, equipment and systems regulated by the New York city fuel gas code, the New York city plumbing code and the New York city mechanical code shall be governed by applicable provisions of those codes relating to new and existing installations.
Fire Protection Systems, on the other hand should refer to BC 901 and follow accordingly, for example 901.9.3 Sprinkler and fire alarms requirements for enlargements
Elevator, conveyors and amusement rides should refer to BC 3001, for example 3001.11.1 deals with New elevators in existing shafts.
Safety of public and property during construction operations including demolition shall be governed by chapter 33 of the New York City Building Code.
Accessibility concerns are to follow BC 1101 and one noteworthy provision is noted at 1101.3.1 or the Accessibility requirements for changes of occupancy.
For Guards on the other hand, it is stated that, where the alteration or repair of a building involves the addition or replacement of guards, such guards shall comply with sections 1013 and 1607.7 of the New York City Building Code.
Structural alterations should refer to BC 1601, and a good example of one provision is the 1601.2 Seismic requirements for alterations.
