Code: attic (Building space under roof)
Description: (Attic space under the roof) is the part of a building directly under the roof, usually above the top floor or ceiling of the main living space. Attic renovations in NYC require careful planning due to strict building codes.
Practical Meaning: For a NYC homeowner, the attic is extra space that may be used for storage or, if built and approved correctly, as living space. If you add bedrooms or a rental unit in the attic without proper DOB permits and approvals, it may be treated as an illegal conversion and lead to violations, fines, and required work.
Where You May See It: You may see “attic” mentioned in your Certificate of Occupancy, in DOB plans or applications, in an inspector’s report about an illegal conversion, or in real‑estate listings that describe finished or unfinished space under the roof.
Why It Matters: How the attic is used and shown on DOB records affects your legal number of dwelling units, fire safety, and egress. If you finish or rent out the attic in a way that does not match DOB approvals, you may face illegal conversion violations, emergency vacate orders, and expensive correction work.
Source: attic renovation