NYC DOB General Contractor Registration
Registering as a General Contractor with the DOB enables permits to be issued under their company and name. This enables contractors to record their work on the DOB’s system and ensures compliance with laws. Having a permit does not exempt a contractor from gettting violations, but it does prevent them from getting a “Work without a Permit” violation. DOB permits are a necessary part of working as a contractor in New York City. It also
The Department of Buildings requires contractors to become registered if they are doing anything but minor alterations. To determine whether or not the work needs a permit is covered in our article – Do I need a DOB permit? These should be considered guidelines, and not definitive rules, as laws are changing, and permit regulations vary by borough and examiner.
Who needs a Contractor Registration?
We recommend every general contractor to get at least a tracking number. This enables them to pull permits and keep insurance on file at the DOB. There are several types of contractor registrations at the DOB, with each corresponding to contractor’s work.
- Tracking number only
Tracking number is typically for smaller contractors, who need to pull permits and have their insurance on file. These contractors might be - General Contractor
This type of registration is typically used for contractors working 1, 2 and/or 3 family homes. - Safety Registration
Safety registration is the most capable contractor license issued by the NYC DOB. This requires the most documentation, but enables contractors to work on the largest projects. Companies like STV, Turner construction, and Sordoni Skanska have safety registrations to construct new buildings and pour more than 2,000 cu yd of concrete.
Contractor Endorsements
Depending on the type of work the contractor does, they may require certain designations. The following are the most important designations.
- Demolition Endorsement (DM)
This endorsement allows the entity to do any full or partial demolition work mentioned above. - Concrete Endorsement (CC)
This endorsement allows the entity to place concrete in a building or building site in connection with excavations, foundations or superstructures, including but not limited to the placement of concrete in steel structures, where the concrete portion of the project involves the pouring of 2,000 cubic yards of concrete or more. - Construction Endorsement (CN)
This endorsement allows the entity to do any construction work listed above that does not involve demolition or concrete work.
Registering as a contractor
Contractor registration at the NYC DOB may take from hours to months depending on the type. All forms may be prepared before hand, but many come into the DOB without them and may need to come back in order to finish registration. The simplest registrations may be completed in one day, while other types with special endorsements may take much longer.
Contractor Insurance
Registering as a General Contractor at the DOB requires insurance that meets particular guidelines. This is important because of the inherent risk associated with construction work and liability concerns. The Licensing Division requires insurance certificates for:
- General Liabilty
- Disability
- Worker’s Compensation
Having Problems Registering at the NYC DOB?
Problems may occur during registration, whether it be a lack of forms, or a disprencary in the paperwork. Direct Access Expediting offers consulting services to act as a liasion between the NYC DOB and the contractor. We will prepare forms to the best of our ability, work with brokers to prepare insurance certificates and accompany you at DOB visits. Ensuring things will run as smoothly as possible.
If this is something you’re interested in, please visit the contact page and give us a call or email us. We’ll be more than happy to help you register as a general contractor at the NYC DOB.