Renovating a Riverdale co-op: how the alteration agreement works

Much of Riverdale’s housing is co-ops and condos. If you own in one, you usually cannot start a renovation until the board or managing agent approves it. The document that controls this is the alteration agreement.

This guide explains the usual steps. Every building has its own rules, so always ask your managing agent for your building’s version first.

What an alteration agreement is

It is a contract between you and the co-op (or condo board). It sets out what work you may do, who may do it, when, and who pays if something goes wrong. Your proprietary lease or the condo bylaws give the board the right to require it.

What the board usually asks for

• Plans or a written scope of work. Bigger jobs, such as moving walls, plumbing or gas lines, often need drawings from a licensed architect or engineer.
• The contractor’s licence. In NYC that is a Home Improvement Contractor licence for most residential work. Plumbers and electricians need their own city licences.
• Certificates of insurance (COI). The board will usually want general liability and workers’ compensation cover, often with the co-op and managing agent named as additional insureds. Ask your managing agent for the exact wording before the contractor orders the certificate. A wrong name on a COI is a common cause of delay.
• A deposit or fees. Many buildings charge a review fee and hold a refundable security deposit.
• Working hours and rules. Most buildings limit noisy work to weekday daytime hours and set rules for elevators, debris and hallway protection.

Permits

Some work needs a permit from the NYC Department of Buildings, filed by a licensed professional. Cosmetic work such as painting or replacing cabinets in the same place usually does not. Your architect, engineer or contractor should tell you which applies; the board may also ask to see the permit before work starts.

Choosing a contractor who can work in a co-op

Ask any contractor you are considering:

1. Have you worked in co-op buildings before, and can you get the COI the board requires? 2. What is your NYC licence number? 3. Will you be at the building’s pre-construction meeting, if there is one? 4. Who will file permits if they are needed?

You can browse licensed contractors based in Riverdale and Kingsbridge in our free directory. Each listing shows the contractor’s NYC licence number.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Your building’s alteration agreement and your managing agent have the final word.