The Department of Buildings Construction Project Guidelines and Checklists Publications: Resource for Owners
The success of any construction project depends on how well the owner or Developer/Property Manager knows, plans and manages their project. They are responsible for identifying and understanding the requirements of the DOB and other government agencies and making sure they are incorporated into the project.
Hiring Registered Design Professionals, submitting documentation to various agencies for approval, selecting contractors and obtaining permits are just a few of the initial steps necessary to start the project. Following this are the steps of beginning the actual construction, completing it while ensuring that it meets all regulations, and at the end, completing any required inspections and ensuring proper close-out of the project.
The Department developed Project Guidelines in collaboration with industry partners in order to:
- Introduce to Owners and/or Developers the Construction Codes, Zoning and other regulatory requisites for proper project planning, implementation and completion;
- Help owners and/or Developers understand their obligation in selecting the right Registered Design Professionals (Registered Architects/Professional Engineers) as the accountable party to fulfill these requirements;
- Help Owners and/or Developers realize the Code requirement for hiring Licensed Contractors to complete the approved work; and
- Assist owners and Developers in finding additional sources of information to further their understanding of these requirements.
The Project Guidelines are recommended to be used before starting the project or filing the project to help the owner better evaluate project costs, site safety requirements, division of responsibilities/labor, and can reduce liability and risks.
The DOB has grouped the Project Checklists for Owners’ use by application type. The categories are:
- Alterations
- Building Systems Installation & Modifications
- Construction Equipment
- Demolition
- New Buildings
- Renovations
The owner hires the design team and this should be done before commencement of any construction project. If the owner is unversed with construction regulations, then they can check the NYC Construction Code and other regulations but consulting with a Registered Design Professional is the best way to go. An Owner’s Representative can also be an invaluable team member.
You can visit the DOB website for more information on how to fully access these Project Guidelines, in the meantime here are some helpful links: