Here is what you need to know, in a nutshell.

Ever since NYC Development HUB launched in 2011 and DOB Now in 2015, it should come as no surprise that the City has been working towards a mandatory, integrated, self-service online filing system for ALL application types. With the latest issued service update released this month (quoted below), it now seems as though the final stages of development are approaching towards a fully virtual filing process:

As of July 1^st 2019, ALL mechanical, plumbing, sprinkler and structural applications must be filed separately through DOB Now: Build .

Whether you’re a developer, homeowner, property owner, construction manager, project manager, architect, engineer, general contractor, sub-contractor, land-use attorney and/or DOB filing representative, we can all agree that the procedures, building laws, codes and zoning regulations for NYC can feel extremely convoluted and overwhelming. Many new development and alteration applications require multiple applicants specific to their work-type, including registered architects, MEP engineers, and Structural Engineers.

Currently, the standard filing process typically requires an initial filing document for OT-Architectural scope, and subsequent MEP/Structural scopes filed as separate documents. This process has maintained a level of organization as the overall project scope, including subsequent trades, are filed under one DOB application number.

Beginning July 1^st, subsequent applications are required to use DOB Now: Build as the method of filing and processing. The key factors to consider with this new mandated filing requirements are as follows:

• Additional property information and code references on subsequent applications.
  Previously, Professional Engineers would reference the architectural drawings which included the bulk of general property information and code/zoning compliance. With the new filing requirements, MEP and Structural Engineers are expected to provide general property information and compliance on their filing application.
• Different examiners will review subsequent Mechanical, Plumbing, and Structural scopes.
  Previously, one examiner would review the overall alteration application which included architectural drawings and subsequent MEP scopes. However, with DOB Now: Build, the review of an alteration or new development will be conducted by different examiners.
• More objections on MEP subsequent documents.
  Previously, DOB objections for an alteration or new development review process were geared towards architectural code and zoning compliance with limited objections on MEP subsequent. With the review process involving different examiners and applications, we expect more objections specific to mechanical, plumbing and structural scopes.

We suggest when scheduling a new project that you pad some additional lead time to cover the unknown time frames due to the new system. We are here to assist in any way you may need.

Another important part of the requirements is registration. To do so, go to www.nyc.gov/dobefiling, and click on the link that reads ‘Register for electronic filing’.

If you have any questions about the new requirements, please feel free to reach out by phone, or email us at contact@outsourceconsultants.com.