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[breasal]

I actually have 2 questions...

I live in Perth Amboy, New Jersey (I'm saying this just in case the laws here are different from other areas)

First question: My grandparents own a two family house and I am living in the upstairs apartment. In the back yard there is a wooden staircase that leads to the upstairs apartment as an alternate entrance. We haven't been able to use it because it's old, dry rotted, and falling apart. We want to completely replace it and rebuild a new one that will be identical to the old one. The support beams on the existing staircase are extremely wobbly and leaning very far to the left so the whole structure needs to be torn down and replaced. Do we need a permit to replace the staircase even though it will be identical to the old one?

And my second question is: We also want to fix up the basement because I have a band and we want to make our own studio to practice and record in. I'd like to know which of the following I would need a permit for: Putting down tile over the concrete floor, covering the cinder block walls with drywall, replacing the windows, and insulating and soundproofing the whole basement. The layout of the house will not be changed, and the blueprints will not need to be updated.

Do I need any permits? We plan on hiring someone to do the stairs and my father and grandfather will be doing the basement.

[camdin90]

As long as you do not change the stairs in any way from the original (same rise and run), you do not need a permit.

The only problems i see with the basement that may require a permit are adding any electrical or plumbing, such as receptacles, before you install the drywall. If you do, you will need a permit and inspection. You MAY need a permit for the windows as well. Check with your local building department. They will be able to answer questions and supply you with the application (if required). Good luck.

[pannoowau]

1st question - yes you need a permit for safety issues.
2nd question - you might. Check with your building code enforcement. Some places must have an inspection of the drywall before mud is applied to ensure enough fasteners have been installed.

Your building code enforcement people can give you the definite answer - and it won't cost you anything to ask.

[fiynn]

this is not a stair repair,it is a replacement,,you will need a permit,does not matter if you do it yourself or contract it out.

#2 ,maybe,in my town if i change any window opening,i need a permit.

[vruyk]

1. Replacing the old stair as it was is a repair, not a renovation.
No permit required.
2. Finishing the basement without changing lay-out also needs no permit.

[iker]

I would think not since one now exist if you do it your self with relation. A contractor may need a city permit to do it.