Unreasonable Reviewing Architects

What could be vague and onerous about an architect's requests? Hire an architect -- they speak the same language.

Can't agree/disagree with you without seeing the requests.

Interesting that they would hire them. From what I know of them is that they generally deal with local law 11, which is really for the exterior of the building. Having them go over interior Renovations does not make much sense.

Can I ask what kind of questions they are asking? I will let you know if it is reasonable.

Here's an example. We indicated we are going to replace/repair wall and floor tile in bathroom.
One request was "Waterproofing membrane is to turn 12" minimum up at walls (and full height of all walls within shower stall and bathtub areas)...If bathtub is to remain in existing location with no work done to it, it will be treated as a "wall" and waterproofing must turn 12" minimum up. Provide details for review." Does this mean there needs to be waterproofing on the outer side of the bathtub going up the tub?

Another example: We are redoing our kitchen (new cabinets and appliances). They request product data/cut sheets for all new appliances and fixtures contemplated. I honestly don't know the exact brand of over/fridge/microwave/dishwasher. Not sure why they need this detail, why it is not sufficient to say that existing mechanical/electrical/water systems will not need modification.

Are there any generic/standard requirements that are published anywhere that I can compare these requests to?

Yes, they are unreasonable. I would respond something like "replace floor tiles only, existing waterproofing will not be disturbed". Find a way go around it.

Srz,

Very unreasonable.

1. You need to explain to them that the bathroom is not a renovation rather it is a repair.
2. You need to tell them that you will hav ean electrician write a load letter saying that you will not be exceeding what you have.

Unfortunately the building architect standard is to be unreasonable. I have dealt with Howard Zimmerman architects many times before and this waterproofing request does not surprise me. Depending on the building there may not be any existing waterproofing and as a part of the building standards, they require all new renovations to install it. The basic requirements for any renovation or work done should be outline in the alteration agreement.

You may want to approach the reviewing board member with this one though. It is obviously unreasonable to install waterproofing on the outside of tub so the board MAY approve you if explained directly to them. They also might not approve you so in that case I would suggest removing the existing tub, installing the waterproofing to the walls, turn it up 12", and then reinstall the tub. Obviously more work/money but could be the only way to resolve it.

That been said, you have "indicated we are replace/repairing wall and floor tile". If you are only removing damaged tile and replacing, Zimmerman is not understanding that and you should not have to install waterproofing at all. A clarification send to Zimmerman should be sufficient.

Regarding the kitchen, it is somewhat standard for them to request spec sheets. Like Primer is saying, they are looking mostly at power requirements for the appliances. If the spec changes, usually not a big deal to revise, assuming the new spec is comparable. (not replacing a slide in gas range with an electric cooktop + builtin electric oven)

SRZ, I just went through this and you should be aware that one of the reasons they "make up these unreasonable" request (that more often than not after an explanation of your plans, are withdrawn) is that YOU are paying for their "work"!! I finally had to hire an architect because the cost of hiring the architect to deal with them was cheaper than having them continuously ask for stupid things that just allowed them to amass more billable hours--- that YOU pay for at their desired rate!! BEWARE!

Would it make sense to hire the building's architect as your architect?

I think that would be considered a conflict of interest.

@Primer05
Maybe, maybe not, but I bet it'd solve alota problems for SRZ, lol!

Sometimes, professionals are hired & they have to make a lota hoopla to make it seem like they're earning their fee.

srz
we just went through the same thing and maybe worse. 20 pages of corrections to the drawings. out architect dealt with each item and got everything we wanted approved eventually. he was sooo on top of it and constantly in touch with buidling management company. it took a few months. our first architect was on a fixed fee but immediately demanded thousands more after seeing 20 page manifesto. we fired him, ate the losses and now are super happy with the new architect. he is so honest and so on top of it and works on flat fee which is reasonable. he also helped us with asbestos and expeditor. his name is alexandro perdomo design and don't let his young looks deceive you. he is AMAZING

it's pretty standard for new york city
that’s why it has to be handled by professional ether GC or an architect (not building Architect)
save yourself time and aggravation you will save time at the end
the more comments building architect has to write back and forth the more you will pay
cause they charge your management company sometimes per page