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Basement Legalization

Basement and Cellar Apartment Legalization Program

Agency: NYC Dept. of Buildings (DOB) and HPD

Complex · $119

In short

Pathway (10-year amnesty window) for owners of 1-2 family homes in eligible districts to legalize basement/cellar units; tenants may stay/return; HPD financial/technical help (unverified). Owners of units existing before April 20, 2024 in eligible community districts (Local Law 126 of 2024, ~15 districts).

What you get
Pathway (10-year amnesty window) for owners of 1-2 family homes in eligible districts to legalize basement/cellar units; tenants may stay/return; HPD financial/technical help (unverified).
Who qualifies
Owners of units existing before April 20, 2024 in eligible community districts (Local Law 126 of 2024, ~15 districts).
Income limit (2026)
None for legalization; HPD loan support may have income limits (unverified).
Papers to gather
Deed, plans by licensed architect/engineer, safety upgrade documentation.
Renewal
N/A

Some details here could not be confirmed yet. We check every rule with the agency before you apply.

Official page: nyc.gov