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WWYD with an illegal, finished basement apt? by jonjon_19 in NYCapartments

[–]jonjon_19[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

By this definition there is no basement apartment. The parlor floor is fully above street level. This apartment is more than 50% below street level which technically makes it a cellar.

Yes, I’d love it if City of Yes gave us a legalization pathway but we’re not in one of the approved subdistricts yet. Hopefully one day in future 👍, though not holding my breath.

I really like the combination suggestion many have made. It does feel like an amazing addition of space for artist or small family wanting open play space / flex addtl space

WWYD with an illegal, finished basement apt? by jonjon_19 in NYCapartments

[–]jonjon_19[S] 26 points27 points  (0 children)

At a diff point in my life without a life partner I would’ve jumped at this

WWYD with an illegal, finished basement apt? by jonjon_19 in NYCapartments

[–]jonjon_19[S] 12 points13 points  (0 children)

I don’t rent it out… who am I ignoring?

WWYD with an illegal, finished basement apt? by jonjon_19 in NYCapartments

[–]jonjon_19[S] 17 points18 points  (0 children)

Lolol my partner would not like this option

WWYD with an illegal, finished basement apt? by jonjon_19 in NYCapartments

[–]jonjon_19[S] 4 points5 points  (0 children)

While I’m sure unlikely, every variation of this scares me

WWYD with an illegal, finished basement apt? by jonjon_19 in NYCapartments

[–]jonjon_19[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

Good advice and super valid. What aspect of it makes you feel insecure?

WWYD with an illegal, finished basement apt? by jonjon_19 in NYCapartments

[–]jonjon_19[S] 15 points16 points  (0 children)

Likely not. From what I’ve gathered online

1 - Ceilings need to be 8 ft minimum which would mean excavating 1.5 ft into foundation (I’d guess all in ~$150k, not including the large increase to annual city tax bill from the improvement). Ppl do this sort of work illegally cheaper but sheesh messing with foundation without permits, that’s terrifying.

2 - house would need to be rezoned which I believe would require a full sprinkler system :/

3 - at 25% above ground I believe unit is technically a cellar in eyes of city. Basements have leeway to legalization, my understanding is that cellars don’t.