When is NYCECC Compliance required in DOB NOW? New York City

Navigating NYCECC compliance in DOB NOW is essential for various construction projects, including general construction, foundation, boiler equipment, mechanical systems, and plumbing applications. The 2020 New York City Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC) mandates an energy submission for applicable projects, with specific criteria depending on the job type. Understanding when compliance is required helps ensure a smooth filing process and adherence to energy efficiency standards. Here we outline key questions to determine if your project requires NYCECC compliance and provides resources for successful submission.

When Does NYCECC Apply?

NYCECC compliance is required for applications in DOBNOW when certain conditions are met. Below are key triggers that determine the need for compliance:

1. Is the Work Being Done on a Historic Building?

• If the building is designated as a NYC Landmark, it may not automatically qualify as a "historic building" under NYCECC. The building must be listed in the New York State Register of Historic Places, the National Register of Historic Places, or be eligible for a listing in either to be considered a historic building.

• Officially designated historic buildings may be exempt from certain requirements but should be reviewed carefully for applicability.

  
  

2. Does the Work Alter the Façade or Roof?

• Changes to the building envelope, including façade modifications or roof alterations, typically require NYCECC compliance.

• Specific requirements depend on whether the alteration impacts energy performance.

3. Will Any Unconditioned Space Become Conditioned Space?

• If an area that was previously unconditioned (e.g., storage or attic space) will now be heated or cooled, NYCECC compliance is necessary.

• This includes spaces being converted to residential or commercial use with HVAC installation.

4. Is This a Roof Re-cover?

• Simple roof re-cover projects may not require compliance, but if insulation is added or modified, NYCECC regulations will apply.

5. Have Existing Roof, Wall, or Floor Cavities Been Exposed?

• If structural elements are exposed as part of the project, insulation levels must meet NYCECC requirements.

• This applies to any substantial reconstruction of exterior assemblies.

6. Is Any Fenestration Being Replaced with New Units?

• Window and door replacements trigger compliance if new units are being installed.

• Energy performance of new fenestration must meet NYCECC standards for U-factor and SHGC (Solar Heat Gain Coefficient).

7. Does This Work Alter the Mechanical or Service Hot Water Systems, Ducts, or Plumbing?

• If mechanical or service hot water systems are being modified, including new ductwork or plumbing, NYCECC compliance is required.

• This includes HVAC upgrades, boiler replacements, and hot water system modifications.

8. Does This Work Alter the Interior or Exterior Lighting?

• Lighting alterations, whether interior or exterior, must adhere to NYCECC lighting power density and control requirements.

• Common examples include replacing fixtures, upgrading controls, or redesigning lighting layouts.

9. Does the Work Require Commissioning?

• Larger projects, particularly those involving new systems or substantial modifications, may require commissioning to verify compliance.

• Examples include:

  • Large HVAC system installations.

  • Complex mechanical system upgrades.

  • Lighting controls integrated with building automation.

Key Takeaways For When NYCECC Compliance Is Required

• An energy submission is required whenever NYCECC compliance is triggered.

• Understanding whether your project impacts building envelope, mechanical systems, lighting, or commissioning requirements is crucial.

• Early assessment of NYCECC applicability helps ensure a smooth DOBNOW approval process.

By staying informed on NYCECC compliance requirements, you can better prepare your construction filings and reduce project roadblocks. Built Engineers provides regulatory filings services for DOB NOW filings, energy code compliance, and energy submissions. If you're unsure whether your project falls under NYCECC regulations, contact our team today!