Advice Needed on Converting Single-Family Home Zoned RM-1 to Multifamily in Philly

[Mary Umoh]

Hello BP community,

I’m currently exploring the possibility of converting a single-family home in Philadelphia, which is zoned RM-1, into a multifamily property. I’d love some guidance and insights from those of you who have done similar projects, particularly in Philadelphia.

Any advice on navigating Philadelphia’s L&I process? Are there any hurdles I should anticipate with zoning or permits?

What challenges did you face during your conversion? Anything you would have done differently to save time, money, or headaches?

I’m eager to hear from those with firsthand experience. Thanks in advance for your insights!

- Mary 

[Stuart Udis]

Speak with an architect as there's more to the permitting/conversion than merely receiving  the zoning permit. Specifically will this property require a secondary form of egress and if so, can the architect provide this in building permit  plans and does the change of use trigger the need for an NFPA 13R sprinkler system? If so, new service to the building would more than likely be required independent of the existing domestic water line. An architect will be able to answer those questions and perhaps be able to identify other physical and economic obstacles that won't arise when merely approaching this through the lens of whether you can obtain a zoning permit. My examples just happen to be two items  that kill many of these conversions after the zoning permit is issued so best to verify what obstacles if any exist early on.