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Change of Use & DOB Filings” (That’s good for SEO)

Always Building

Structural Engineering for Renovations & Use Changes

Planning to add a new room, convert a basement, change your building’s legal occupancy or simply upgrade structural elements during a renovation? ADJ Engineering, PLLC offers full-service structural engineering support to homeowners, property managers and developers throughout NYC who are ready to improve, expand or legalize their properties.

Whether you’re modifying a single-family home or converting a multi-unit building to mixed use, our engineers help you navigate DOB approvals, structural requirements and code compliance every step of the way.

Home Renovation Structural Support

Renovating your home or investment property requires more than a contractor with tools. When structural changes are involved—such as removing walls, adding rooms or modifying floor layouts—DOB approval and engineer-stamped drawings are usually required. ADJ Engineering, PLLC provides:

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  • Structural inspection and load analysis

  • Removal or alteration of load-bearing walls

  • New openings for doors, windows or staircases

  • Header or beam design for room additions

  • Foundation review and reinforcement specs

  • Framing upgrades for second-story expansions

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We prepare the structural calculations and sealed plans needed for DOB filing and permit approval, often in coordination with your architect or contractor.

Basement & Cellar Legalization

Want to convert your basement or cellar into a legal living space or accessory unit? NYC has strict rules on height, egress, light and ventilation. ADJ Engineering, PLLC evaluates your existing conditions and provides the engineering path toward legalization. Our services include:

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  • Code compliance assessment

  • Slab lowering structural guidance

  • Underpinning design (if required)

  • Wall waterproofing and load checks

  • Structural letters for DOB submission

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We help you understand what’s possible within the NYC Code and prepare all engineering documentation required for approval.

 

Change of Use or Occupancy (DOB)

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Converting a 2-family home into a 3-family residence? Want to change a ground floor into a retail store or daycare center? These changes typically trigger a “Change of Use” or “Change of Occupancy” with DOB, which requires both architectural and structural documentation.

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ADJ Engineering, PLLC works alongside your architect and expeditor to provide:

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  • Structural evaluation of current load paths

  • Framing upgrades to support new layout or use

  • Compliance with occupancy load requirements

  • Sealed structural drawings and calculations

  • Letters of No Objection support where applicable

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We help ensure your building is structurally ready for the proposed change and code compliant for DOB approval.

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Load Analysis for Rooftop Work

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Adding HVAC, solar panels or roof decks? We evaluate whether your existing roof structure can safely support new loading and provide stamped calculations or retrofit designs if reinforcement is required. Our rooftop services include:

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  • Existing roof framing assessment

  • Dead/live load calculations

  • Reinforcement design (joist sistering, beam upgrades)

  • Sealed letters or drawings for DOB submittal

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ADJ Engineering, PLLC often partners with solar, HVAC and roofing contractors to help them meet DOB engineering requirements quickly and affordably.

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Letters of No Objection

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In cases where your building’s existing or proposed use doesn’t require a full Certificate of Occupancy change but does require DOB acknowledgment, a Letter of No Objection (LNO) may be appropriate. We help by:

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  • Performing structural inspections to support the LNO

  • Preparing sealed engineer letters verifying safety and structural adequacy

  • Coordinating with architects or expeditors on submission packages

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ADJ Engineering, PLLC can provide the structural documentation that supports an LNO request and helps move your application through DOB review faster.

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Foundation and Framing Reviews

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Whether you’re renovating an older home or planning a rear extension, it’s essential to understand whether the existing foundation and structural system can handle new loads. We offer:

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  • Subsurface wall and footing evaluation

  • Foundation bearing capacity review

  • CMU and brick wall crack assessments

  • New slab or footing designs

  • Framing inspections and retrofitting plans

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ADJ Engineering, PLLC gives you confidence before you pour concrete or demo walls, helping you avoid costly surprises later in the project.

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Why Choose ADJ Engineering, PLLC

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  • Licensed, NYC-based structural engineers

  • Fast turnaround on reports and sealed drawings

  • Full coordination with architects and contractors

  • Deep experience with DOB codes and filing procedures

  • Transparent pricing and clear communication

  • Proven results across Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Manhattan and Staten Island

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Let’s Get Started

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If you’re planning a renovation, expansion or use conversion in NYC, ADJ Engineering, PLLC is here to help you build smarter and safer. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or site visit. We’re ready to provide the structural support your project needs to succeed.

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