NYC Existing Building Code Updates Explained
- Built Engineers
- 4 hours ago
- 3 min read
The New York City Department of Buildings (DOB) is in the process of adopting a new NYC Existing Building Code (EBC) as part of the next comprehensive update to the NYC Construction Codes. This long-anticipated revision brings the city’s regulations into closer alignment with the 2015 International Existing Building Code (IEBC) while incorporating critical local amendments specific to New York City’s built environment.
For engineers, architects, and building owners, understanding both the current status and the next steps in the rollout of the new NYC Existing Building Code is essential to stay ahead of compliance requirements and avoid filing delays once the code takes effect.
NYC Existing Building Code Reference
Key provisions of the proposed Existing Building Code govern work performed on existing structures, including:
Limited Alterations (EBC Ch. 5 §501) – Covers minor work to building systems or elements that is limited in scope or value. Includes only the types of work listed in §§503–510 and may be filed by non-design professionals per AC §28-104.6.
Classification of Work (EBC Ch. 6 §602, §603, §604) – Defines Alteration Levels 1 and 2, Change of Occupancy, and related thresholds based on project scale and impact.
Structural (EBC Ch. 7 §701) – Governs structural changes from repairs, alterations, additions, or relocations. Exceptions apply to in-kind façade replacements and small light-frame dwellings.
Alterations - Level 1 (EBC Ch. 8 §801) – Applies where the work area does not exceed 50% of the building area and includes limited system modifications beyond Chapter 5.
Alterations - Level 2 (EBC Ch. 9 §901) – Applies where the work area exceeds 50% of the building area, requiring compliance with both Level 1 and additional life-safety, accessibility, and structural provisions.
Change of Occupancy (EBC §1001) – Applies when a project changes a building’s use or occupancy classification, requiring upgrades for egress, fire protection, structure, and accessibility.
Additions (EBC Ch. 11 §1101) – Applies when new floor area or structure is added. New work must meet current code; existing portions must remain compatible in structure, egress, and fire protection.
Additional Safeguards During Construction of Demolition for Existing Buildings and Occupied buildings (EBC Ch. 15 §1501) – Applies to construction or demolition in occupied or partially occupied buildings. Requires occupant safety measures consistent with NYC Building Code Chapter 33.
Current Status of the Code Update
As of November 2025, the NYC Department of Buildings’ Code Revision Committee has completed public review drafts of the 2025 Construction Codes, including the standalone Existing Building Code. The package is currently under final legal and technical review by the City Council and the Office of Technical Certification and Research (OTCR).
The timeline is as follows:
Fall 2025: Introduction of Int. No. 1321-2025 completed; City Council adoption and Mayoral signature pending.
Early 2026: Publication and training rollout by DOB, including updated bulletins and reference guides.
Expected Effective Date: Effective date pending official Local Law enactment; projected for late 2025 or early 2026 subject to publication in the City Record.
BUILT Engineers Can Help
BUILT Engineers works with property owners, developers, and design teams to prepare for NYC code transitions. Our services include:
Existing Building Code assessments and compliance strategy
Guidance through code transition timelines and filing cutoffs
As the NYC Existing Building Code moves toward enactment as a Local Law, BUILT Engineers ensures your projects remain compliant and efficiently permitted. Contact our team to discuss how upcoming code changes may affect your next renovation or alteration filing.