Basement rehab permit in Providence

[Assad Oskuei]

Hey guys,

I am under contract for a Triplex in Providence (built in 1930). The basement was previously finished (without permit) and has evidence of mold so we are gutting out the dry walls. 

Does the city just not give permits to renovate the basement for rental purposes? I think we would have to add sprinkler system. Would also have to rely on street parking in front of the house. We could potentially make one of the windows bigger as egress. 

I was planning on reaching to a RE attorney but was wondering what your experience has been. 

[Anthony Thompson]

@Assad Oskuei you could apply for one, but again the city isn't usually inclined to grant them - like I said, they're not big fans of basement units. I once had to un-finish a basement because a prior owner had finished the basement without a permit, and someone from the city was there for something else completely (an electrical permit).

You can have an informal conversation with the folks in zoning if you bring them the specs of the property (including lot size) and ask them what their thoughts are on whether/how it could be granted; it could help if you familiarize yourself with the zoning ordinance first, especially the "Dimensional Standards" part of "ARTICLE 4. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS" section which presently begins on p. 38.

I would not buy the property on the assumption you'll be able to add another unit there, unless the folks from zoning say it's likely to be approved. Buy it based on the current number of units, and if you can add one more in the basement then consider it a bonus, but don't base your offer/purchase price on the assumption you'll be able to do so.