BY JOHN KIRITSIS, ESQ., CPA, MBA, MS, JD, LL.M Lien priority laws for New York City (NYC) condos are governed by a combination of state laws and local regulations. Condominiums in NYC are subject to a specific set of rules and regulations, and lien priority can vary depending on the type of lien and the circumstances. Here are some key points to understand about lien priority laws for NYC condos: Mechanic's Liens: Mechanic's liens are typically granted priority based on the date of filing. In…

BY JOHN KIRITSIS, ESQ., CPA, MBA, MS, JD, LL.M In New York City, Homeowners' Association (HOA) lien priority laws are primarily governed by state laws and the specific governing documents of the HOA. It's important to note that HOA laws and lien priority can vary depending on the type of development and the rules established by the HOA. Here are some key considerations related to HOA lien priority in New York City: Governing Documents: The specific lien priority rules for an HOA are typicall…

BY JOHN KIRITSIS, ESQ., CPA, MBA, MS, JD, LL.M Dealing with legal issues involving NYC co-op lien priority rules can be complex and requires a good understanding of the laws and regulations governing cooperative housing in New York City. Co-op lien priority rules can affect various aspects of co-op ownership, including assessments, maintenance fees, and loans. Here are some steps and considerations when dealing with legal issues related to lien priority in NYC co-ops: Consult with an Attorne…

BY JOHN KIRITSIS, ESQ., CPA, MBA, MS, JD, LL.M Converting a New York City (NYC) office building into a residential one can be a complex and regulated process. NYC has specific zoning and building codes that govern such conversions, and you must adhere to these regulations. Here are the general steps and considerations involved in converting an office building into a residential one in NYC: Determine Feasibility: Start by conducting a feasibility study to assess whether the conversion is fi…

BY JOHN KIRITSIS, ESQ., CPA, MBA, MS, JD, LL.M 1. High Demand and High Prices: Luxury residential apartments in New York City have traditionally been in high demand due to the city's status as a global financial and cultural hub. The demand for luxury rentals is driven by professionals, expatriates, and high-income individuals seeking premium amenities, prime locations, and top-notch services. 2. Prime Locations: Luxury apartments are often concentrated in upscale neighborhoods such as Man…

BY JOHN KIRITSIS, ESQ., CPA, MBA, MS, JD, LL.M Dealing with electric vehicle (EV) charging stations in New York City condo buildings involves a combination of legal, regulatory, and practical considerations. Here is a legal guide to help condo buildings navigate this process: Review Local Regulations: Familiarize yourself with NYC building codes and regulations related to EV charging infrastructure. These regulations may dictate installation requirements, safety standards, and permitting p…

BY JOHN KIRITSIS, ESQ., CPA, MBA, MS, JD, LL.M 1. Common Charges Overview: Common charges are fees that condo owners pay to cover the costs of maintaining and operating the common areas and amenities within the condominium building. These charges can include expenses such as building maintenance, repairs, utilities, insurance, and management fees. Common charges are typically assessed based on the unit's size or a predetermined formula. 2. Legal Issues: a. Non-Payment of Common Charges: …

BY JOHN KIRITSIS, ESQ., CPA, MBA, MS, JD, LL.M When dealing with roof contracts in NYC, several legal considerations apply: 1. Licensing and Permits: Contractors working on roofing projects in NYC are generally required to be licensed by the New York City Department of Buildings (DOB). Verify that the contractor you're hiring holds a valid license for the specific work being done. Additionally, certain roofing projects might require building permits. Your contractor should be aware of the …

BY JOHN KIRITSIS, ESQ., CPA, MBA, MS, JD, LL.M When building owners in New York City (NYC) are dealing with the installation and management of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, there are several legal and regulatory considerations to keep in mind. 1. Zoning and Building Codes: Check the NYC zoning and building codes to ensure compliance with regulations related to EV charging stations. Depending on your property's location and classification, there may be specific requirements or per…

BY JOHN KIRITSIS, ESQ., CPA, MBA, MS, JD, LL.M In New York City, zoning variances are permissions granted to property owners by the Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA) to deviate from certain zoning regulations for their property. The BSA is a quasi-judicial agency responsible for reviewing and deciding on applications for zoning variances and special permits. Here's an overview of how NYC zoning variances and the BSA process work: Zoning Variances: Zoning regulations dictate how properties…