Queens service

Multifamily renovation in Queens

We renovate 2 and 3-family homes across Queens, from full-building gut jobs to unit reconfigurations and converting a layout into legal, separate dwellings. We handle the DOB filings, occupancy changes, and the Certificate of Occupancy paperwork so the result is documented and lawful.

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The basics

What is multifamily renovation in Queens?

Multifamily renovation is the remodeling of a 2 or 3-family home, whether you update existing units in place or reconfigure the building to add, combine, or relocate dwelling units. When unit count or layout changes, the work usually requires DOB filings and an updated Certificate of Occupancy to keep the building legal.

Scope

What is included

Finishes during a Queens renovation by CityCore Builders

Unit reconfiguration

Combining, splitting, or relocating dwelling units within a 2 or 3-family building, with new partitions, kitchens, and baths laid out around legal room sizes and light and air requirements.

Tile during a Queens renovation by CityCore Builders

Kitchens and baths

Full remodels for each unit, including cabinetry, counters, tile, fixtures, and updated rough-in for water, waste, and venting.

Plumbing during a Queens renovation by CityCore Builders

Electrical and plumbing

Separate metering where feasible, panel upgrades, new branch circuits, and re-piped supply and drainage sized for the renovated unit count.

Hvac during a Queens renovation by CityCore Builders

Heating and ventilation

Per-unit heating, mechanical ventilation, and bathroom and kitchen exhaust that meets code for each separate dwelling.

Egress during a Queens renovation by CityCore Builders

Egress and fire separation

Compliant stairs, exits, fire-rated assemblies between units, and self-closing doors so each dwelling is properly separated.

Exterior during a Queens renovation by CityCore Builders

Finishes and envelope

Flooring, doors, trim, windows, insulation, and waterproofing to bring older Queens housing stock up to current standards.

NYC specifics

Permits and approvals for Queens multifamily work

Most multifamily renovations are filed with the NYC Department of Buildings as an Alteration. An Alt-2 covers multiple types of work without changing the building's use, occupancy, or egress, while an Alt-1 is required when you change the number of dwelling units, the occupancy, or the use, which then triggers a new or amended Certificate of Occupancy.

Changing unit count brings extra scrutiny: minimum room and unit sizes, natural light and air, ceiling heights, and at least one legal means of egress per dwelling. A registered architect or engineer files the plans, and DOB sign-off and final inspections precede the updated C of O.

If your block sits in a designated historic district, exterior changes need Landmarks Preservation Commission (LPC) review before DOB will approve them. Properties in FEMA-mapped flood zones, common in low-lying parts of Queens, must meet flood-resistant construction rules and may require elevated or protected mechanicals.

Zoning floor area ratio (FAR) limits how much you can enlarge, and any added floor area must fit within the lot's allowance. We coordinate the design team, filings, and inspections so the permit path matches the actual scope before construction starts.

Coverage

Where we work

We renovate multifamily homes throughout Queens. Start with our borough hub, or explore a few of the regions we cover most often.

All of Queens Northwest Queens Northeast Queens Central Queens Southeast Queens

Get started

Planning a 2 or 3-family renovation?

Tell us about your building and what you want to change. We will walk you through the scope, the likely permit path, and a clear estimate.

Request a free estimate