Code Reviews and Building Permits

Code reviews and building permits are key services during the construction and contract management phase of a project. 

Code Reviews Building Permits

The majority of construction requires a Department of Buildings permit. Typically, any construction project that alters major building systems, such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or structural, requires a building permit. 

About Building Permits

Projects Requiring a Building Permit

In order to perform code review and issue a building permit, a set of drawings, stamped by a NY State certified design professional, is required. Many times these drawings are prepared in Facilities though sometimes they are prepared by off-campus consultants.

Building Permits are also required when work is performed by an off-campus vendor as long as it alters any of the major building systems.  Facilities is available to help your department or unit obtain the permit.  Also off-campus vendors are required to show proof of insurance.

Types of Work Requiring a Building Permit
Type of Work Building Permit
Classroom, office or laboratory renovations X
Door renovation including installation of new doors X
Electrical systems modifications X
Fume hoods, hazardous material cabinets installation, removal or replacement X
Furniture partitions installation greater than 69” in height or any powered partitions X
Gas fired equipment installation, removal or replacement X
Hazardous materials removal, i.e. asbestos or lead paint X
Heating or air-conditioning systems modifications X
Plumbing systems modifications X
Room or suite of rooms renovations X
Structural modification, such as walls, beams or columns X
Window renovation including installation of new windows X
Types of Projects Completed by Billable Work Order
Type of Work Work Order
Carpet installation or replacement *
X
Electrical work, such as new outlets that do not require a new circuit
X
Equipment - direct one for one replacement without increase of scope of work
X
Furniture (non-powered) installation including partition walls up to 69 inches in height **
X
Painting of one of more rooms
X
Plumbing work, such as installation of a sink
X

*Before new carpeting is even ordered, the area must be tested for asbestos by Environment Health and Safety

**Furniture layout needs Facilities review for compliance with the American with Disabilities Act

*Before new carpeting is even ordered, the area must be tested for asbestos by Environment Health and Safety

**Furniture layout needs Facilities review for compliance with the American with Disabilities Act

Inspections

After a building permit is issued, interim inspections take place to ensure compliance with the codes, rules, and regulations of the New York State. These inspections, along with a written report, are filed with the Code Compliance Manager. At the conclusion of a project, the Code Compliance Manager must close out the building permit and issue a Certificate of Compliance. The building permit and the Certificate of Compliance are filed on-line with the Department of State in Albany.

Requesting Service

Request Service

  • Log in and submit a Work Order Request or
  • Call Customer Service at 716-645-2025

Contact an Expert

Martin Hohle.

Barry Beebe

Code Compliance Manager

Facilities, Design and Construction

119N John Beane Center

Phone: 716-645-3634

Email: barrybee@buffalo.edu