Question 1

How do I check if an NYC contractor is licensed?

Accepted Answer

Ask NYCBuildings.ai for any contractor by name. The system searches NYC Department of Buildings permit records across DOB NOW and BIS, returning license type, license number, permit history, boroughs worked, and a flag if the license appears under multiple business names — a known DOB fraud signal called license renting.

Question 2

How do I check for violations on an NYC building?

Accepted Answer

Enter the building address at NYCBuildings.ai. The system checks all NYC violation databases — DOB (building code), ECB (civil penalties), HPD (housing conditions), and FDNY — and returns every violation on record, including which ones are still open and any outstanding penalty amounts.

Question 3

How do I find open permits on an NYC property?

Accepted Answer

Ask about open permits at any NYC address. Open permits are DOB permits that were issued but never closed with a final inspection. They can block mortgage funding, co-op board approval, and future renovations. NYCBuildings.ai returns all open permits from DOB NOW and historical BIS records.

Question 4

What is license renting in NYC construction?

Accepted Answer

License renting occurs when a licensed contractor allows their license to be used by other businesses — a violation of NYC Department of Buildings rules. DOB limits Master Plumbers to 2 affiliated businesses and Master Electricians to 1. When a single license appears under 4 or more distinct business names, it is a strong signal of illegal license renting. NYCBuildings.ai flags this automatically for any contractor lookup.

Question 5

Do I need a permit to renovate my NYC apartment?

Accepted Answer

Most structural, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and significant interior work in NYC requires a DOB permit. Work that typically requires a permit includes: moving or removing walls, adding or relocating plumbing fixtures, installing HVAC equipment, electrical panel upgrades, and changing the use of a space. Cosmetic work like painting, flooring, and cabinet replacement generally does not require a permit. Ask NYCBuildings.ai about your specific project for guidance based on DOB rules.

Question 6

What do NYC plan examiners commonly flag and reject?

Accepted Answer

NYCBuildings.ai searches 238,000+ actual DOB plan examiner objection records. Common objections include: missing occupant load calculations, insufficient egress means of egress documentation, emergency lighting compliance, gas piping in egress stairs, and missing Certificate of Occupancy amendments. Ask about your specific project type to see what examiners flag most often.

NYC Construction Q&A

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