top of page

NYC kitchen remodel permits 2026: board approvals, Alt‑1 vs Alt‑2, real timelines

  • Richard Golding
  • Jan 9
  • 2 min read
NYC kitchen remodel in progress inside a Manhattan apartment
  • Full NYC kitchen remodel ranges $60,000–$180,000+ depending on finishes, scope, and size.

  • Most projects with wiring, plumbing, layout changes require a DOB permit (Alt2) filed through DOB NOW: Build.

  • Board approvals (co‑op/condo) and freight elevator delivery windows can add time and cost.

  • Typical timeline: 8–16 weeks including permits and construction.

  • Internal links: Metro Contractors NYC booking & gallery.


Why Remodel Now in January 2026

Winter offers easier scheduling with designers and contractors before spring demand spikes. In NYC, permit filings through DOB NOW: Build streamline reviews, but scheduling can still take 4–6 weeks due to review queues.


Costs & Budget Breakdown (NYC)

Kitchen remodel materials including cabinets and countertops

Typical Ranges

  • Cabinetry & Millwork: $18,000–$60,000

  • Countertops (stone): $6,000–$20,000

  • Appliances: $8,000–$30,000

  • Plumbing & Electrical: $10,000–$30,000

  • Flooring: $3,000–$12,000

  • Design Fees: $2,000–$8,000


Assumptions: NYC 80–200 sq ft kitchen, Manhattan/Brooklyn Heights/UES delivery windows, union vs non‑union labor rates. Custom cabinetry and stone at high end.


Why Costs Vary

  • Layout Changes: Adding beams or moving walls increases structural work, permit filings, and time.

  • High‑end Finishes: Custom cabinetry + imported stone drives costs.

  • Site Logistic Fees: Freight elevator reservations and curb permits.


NYC DOB Permits — What You Need to Know

Do You Need a Permit?

Most full kitchen remodels involving plumbing, gas, electrical or layout require a permit. Minor cabinet swaps do not trigger DOB filing requirements.


Permit Types & Filing

Architect reviewing NYC DOB kitchen remodel permit plans
  • Kitchens with multiple trades and layout changes often fall under an Alteration Type 2 (Alt2) permit, filed electronically via DOB NOW: Build.

  • Dob Now: Build is the City’s online portal for filing plans and tracking approvals.

  • A licensed architect or engineer typically must prepare and file plans.


Board & Building Constraints

For co‑ops/condos (Park Slope, Astoria, Harlem), board approvals are separate from DOB permits and can take additional 2–6 weeks.


Process & Timeline

  1. Design & Budgeting: 1–3 weeks

  2. Permits & DOB NOW Filing: 4–6+ weeks

  3. Demolition & Rough‑in: 2–3 weeks

  4. Finishes & Inspections: 3–5 weeks Total: 8–16+ weeks from kickoff.


Site Logistics (Elevators & Hours)

Work times and elevator reservations must align with building management rules, especially in walk‑ups and high‑rise elevator buildings.


Metro Contractors LLC Expertise

Metro helps NYC homeowners plan and file permits, handle DOB NOW submissions, and manage inspections. Our teams work in Harlem, SoHo, UES, and Brooklyn Heights.

Internal Links


External Links


FAQs

Do I need a permit for new cabinets in NYC?

No if only cabinets are swapped in without plumbing or structural changes.


How long does DOB review take?

Plan exam typically 4–6 weeks but can vary with scope.


Can Metro file permits for me?

Yes, Metro’s team prepares and files DOB applications.


Does a permit affect board approvals?

Yes, you must get board ok before DOB permits for co‑ops.


Are deliveries allowed on weekends?

Check building rules; many restrict weekend freight use.


Talk with Metro to get a custom cost estimate and permit plan today.

Comments


bottom of page