Stairs not meeting code to get C.O.O.

[Rick Michaels]

I am in need of some advice.  I purchase a rental property with a 3rd floor unit that was in the middle of a rehab.   I called the city inspector, and he visited.  He said he wouldn't provide a Certificate of Occupancy becuase part of the stairs doesn't meet code.  The stairs in question are in an enclosed private entrance.  They are spiral and made of wood.  They are totally acceptable to use for getting up and down to the 3rd floor.  The inspector said they are not wide enough and that 36"x36" landings must be added, which there is no room for.  Any advice would be much appreciated.

[Nathan Gesner]

If it doesn't meet code, it doesn't meet code. Nobody on this forum can make that go away.

Consider removing the stairs, getting the COO, and then put the stairs back in.

Have you talked to the contractor about this? Why doesn't he know the code? Wasn't his plan approved by Plannning and Zoning first?