Planning a kitchen or bathroom renovation in NYC
Summary
Decide early whether you are keeping the layout. Moving plumbing, gas or walls adds permits, approvals and cost. Order cabinets and fixtures early, and keep a contingency for what you find behind the walls.
Keeping or changing the layout
Keeping sinks, toilets and the range where they are is the biggest cost saver. Moving them means new piping, often a permit (opens an external site), and in co-ops and condos possibly board review.
Kitchen checklist
- Electrical capacity for induction ranges, dishwashers and microwaves on their own circuits
- Range hood: ducted to the outside if the building allows, otherwise recirculating
- Cabinet lead time, often several weeks and longer for custom
- Countertop templating after cabinets are installed
- Sufficient countertop outlets, as required by code
Bathroom checklist
- Waterproofing under the tile, especially in showers and over other apartments
- An exhaust fan vented properly (opens an external site)
- Shower valves and drains chosen before tiling starts
- Tile and fixtures on site before demolition, to avoid gaps in the schedule
Budget and schedule
Set aside 10 to 15 percent of the budget for conditions found during demolition, such as rotted subfloors or outdated wiring. A bathroom without layout changes often takes a few weeks of work; kitchens and anything that needs approvals (opens an external site) take longer.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stay at home during the renovation?
For a single-room project, usually yes, with dust protection in place. If the kitchen or your only bathroom is out of service, plan alternative arrangements for several weeks.
Should I buy my own fixtures?
You may. Let us know before we prepare the estimate so it covers installation only, and order early so that late deliveries do not delay the schedule.
Sources
4 sources
- Plumbing Permits (opens an external site)NYC Department of Buildings
- Do I Need a Permit? (opens an external site)NYC Department of Buildings
- Home Improvement Contractor Permit Requirements (opens an external site)NYC Department of Buildings
- A Brief Guide to Mold, Moisture and Your Home (opens an external site)U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
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