Permits, Zoning & Approvals
BAWI helps property owners, buyers, landlords and businesses deal with building permits, open permits, violations, legalization work, certificates of occupancy, zoning review and agency approvals across Long Island and New York City.
Building Permits, Legalizations & Certificates of Occupancy
Property records, permits and existing conditions do not always match. BAWI helps owners understand what is on file, identify what must be corrected and prepare the architectural documents needed to move the project forward.
What We Help With
- New building and alteration permits
- Open-permit and violation resolution
- Legalization of existing construction
- Certificates of occupancy and completion
- Zoning and feasibility review
- Change-of-use and occupancy applications
- Building Department and agency coordination
How the Process Works
- Review the property. We review available records, surveys, permits, violations and the proposed work.
- Document existing conditions. We identify zoning, code and filing issues that may affect approval.
- Prepare and file. We prepare drawings and applications and coordinate with the appropriate municipality or agency.
- Respond and close out. We address review comments and help coordinate inspections and the documents needed for final approval.
When to Contact BAWI
- Before buying, selling or refinancing a property with unclear records
- When work was completed without permits
- After receiving a violation or discovering an open permit
- Before changing a building's use or occupancy
- When planning an addition, renovation or commercial fit-out
Frequently Asked Questions
Can existing work be legalized?
Sometimes. The work must be evaluated against current zoning, building-code and safety requirements. Alterations may be required before approval.
How long does the process take?
Timing depends on the municipality, available records, project scope, agency comments and required inspections. We explain the known steps after an initial review.
Where does BAWI work?
BAWI assists clients across Long Island and New York City, including Nassau and Suffolk County municipalities.
What should I bring to the first consultation?
Share the property address, municipality, survey, permits, violations, Building Department correspondence and any existing drawings you have. We can identify what else may be needed.
Have a Permit, Violation or CO Issue?
Tell us the municipality, property type and what you know about the permit, violation or certificate-of-occupancy issue.