| Questions For Supers - 850 to 899 | |||||
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last update on Sunday March 15, 2009 10:39 PM PT |
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last update on Sunday March 15, 2009 10:39 PM PT
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•frequently asked questions •ask a question •questions by category |
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Question #899: Where can I find woodworking classes in the
city?
Post your answer Answer: You should probably consider a self-taught class in Googling first, then check out the woodworking classes you find. |
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Question #898: What is the difference between Engineer's
Blue Seal and Engineer's Red Seal? And if I have this, where can I look for
a job. In two more weeks I am starting the school for Black seal (NJ).
Post your answer Answer: Since you are about to start school for the black seal, its best that you ask your instructor on those differences, as well as where to find a job. Peter Grech, GBOC
Answer:
The difference is mainly in the
size capacity of the plant that you can oversee. For more detailed
info, go to
http://lwd.dol.state.nj.us/ |
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Question #897: I have become a board member of my co-op
recently, and have pledged to rid our building of an annoying problem of
water hammer in our heating system. I have been told recently that this
may have been a bold statement and that the causes of such an annoyance
can be many fold and difficult - if not impossible - to resolve. I along
with our new super have found out that there has NEVER been regular
maintenance on the entire system, including, pumps, water feeds, traps and
elements. It has become our opinion, along with that of a new management
company, that we may need to replace the entire 45+ year old system. Is it
correct that a problem like water hammer may be unsolvable? I refuse to
believe this.
Post your answer
Answer: You are correct in your deduction that the causes of water
hammering are many fold. It is solvable however, with certain corrections.
Of course total replacement of the system MIGHT solve it. Be cautious
however, that depending on who does the plumbing work is very important.
Some plumbers might simply replace “in kind” and in fact rebuild the same
problems right back in! You need to retain a heating engineer, not a plumber
or your heating repair company, to go over your entire system and make
recommendations. I agree completely with what Mr. Aristovulos has written. I write only to point out what is the basic cause of water hammer: the implosion of steam, rising in the system, upon coming in contact with a pool of cold condensate that never drained properly. Chances are that the main line in the basement is sagging, creating a puddle, and that many of the radiators in the apartments are not draining properly back into the system (if you have a one-pipe system) or the steam traps need replacing on each radiator or convector. They are guaranteed for no more than five years. Dick Koral |
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Question #896: Would anybody know, or know where to find
out, which states / cities accept or have a reciprocity for the New York
City Refrigeration Engineers Certificate (COQ)? I am looking to move out of
NYC and would like to know where the license is accepted.
Post your answer Answer: Your engineer's license is good in New York City but to my knowledge I don't believe it's a requirement in any other state. But on the other hand your universal certification is good, and very necessary if you apply for a job in another state. Roberto Cardona |
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Question #895: Where can I find the requirements for the
"gold seal" license for Elizabeth New Jersey?
Post your answer Answer: You would need to contact the city of Elizabeth New Jersey. Peter Grech, GBOC Answer: Check here for answers to previous similar questions. |
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Question #894: A friend of mine informed me that she had a
problem with her landlord. The reason for the problem was that all the pipes
in the building froze and everything backed up and oozed into her apartment
via the sink, bath and toilet. The landlord refused to turn the water off
until the next day when the plumber would arrive, so in the meantime her
apartment kept getting flooded with undesirable stuff. Where does she stand
with this problem? I really would be grateful for your view.
Post your answer Answer: You are asking a legal question, not a technical one. An attorney experienced in landlord-tenant law will probably make mincemeat out of that landlord. Dick Koral |
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Question #893: I was a super for this company for 15
months and got fired without cause, now the company wants me out in a
month, what should I do.
Post your answer Answer: If you are non-union, you don't have much choice but to move. I would ask for a reference, and if you need time, ask for another month. I am sorry to bring you this news, but you don't have many options. IF you don't move, they will stick rent on to you and file for eviction. If that happens, your reference of 15 years in nonexistent. Peter Grech, GBOC Answer: Also read answers to other, similar questions here in the FAQs pages. |
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Question #892: I own a one-bedroom Condo apartment. I
have a small room (additional room) in my living room which is the size of a
walk-in closet (6'x 8'). I used that as a big closet before, then changed to
use it as a small study room now. As I used this as a closet before, I don't
feel it's a problem to have this additional closet home. Now I want to sell
my apartment. I'm not sure if I have to lock down this small room before
selling my apartment? This is a Condo apartment. Does the management have
the right to get involved in buying/selling our own properties? I mean they
will come to check the apartment before any transaction.
Post your answer Answer: The definitive answer will be in the offering plan. However, it's a 99.9% chance that the answer is NO, the management will not inspect your apartment or get involved other than facilitating the paperwork for the sale. The work done in your apartment was cosmetic and not structural. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #891: Sludge in a fuel oil tank would be
indicated by which: low/high vacuum gauge reading or low/high preheater
temperature?
Post your answer Answer: Indications of sludge in the oil tank will be evident when you have to clean the filters and strainer more often, as well as poor burner performance. The high vacuum reading is also an indicator, but this also just indicates that the strainer / filter is dirty. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #890:
My condominium has one unit where the owner has installed a metal
enclosure (bars) to replace what should be either screens or windows. Does
that constitute a fire hazard and a fire code violation?
Post your answer Answer: Fire Codes are specific to the building. As long as there is TWO means of egress (two ways to get out of the apartment) then it should meet the fire code. If the window had a fire escape then this would be a violation. Also the bars maybe a violation of the condo rules and bylaws. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #889:
Where can I get the Z-00 practice test?
Post your answer Answer: There is no practice test for Z-00. For those that don't know what the Z-00 is, it is the FDNY designation for city-wide sprinkler and standpipe Certificate of Fitness. Z-00 is not a Certificate of Fitness, and is NOT renewable. It is the hardest test of all sprinkler and standpipe tests, as it is citywide and is consolidated and without address. The study material is about 120 pages. If you would like study material, let me know your email address and I will email it to you. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #888:
What is the benefit of using number 6 oil over using number 4 oil for
a 96 unit building?
Post your answer Answer: ECONOMICS is the answer! Even though more equipment is required to pre-heat #6 fuel to liquefy it for use in your boiler, overall it is still less expensive to use than #4 fuel oil. There are two economic factors involved. First is the cost of #6 is lower than any other grade of fuel oil (attributed to the fact it needs less refining) The second economic factor is that #6 fuel oil gives off more BTU’s (British Thermal Units) per gallon of oil during the combustion process then #4 does. In short, it gives more heat value for less money. William Aristovulos |
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Question #887:
What do I need to do to get the residential fire safety license
(HVAC)?. Do you know any schools that have HVAC classes?
Post your answer Answer: To the best of my knowledge there is no such thing as - or anything even close to - a residential fire safety license. As for HVAC which is Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning, there are many schools. New York City College of Technology is one. But HVAC and the "residential fire safety license" (which does not exist as far as I know) would be totally different. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #886:
I recently had a guest burn himself severely, after taking a shower,
on a steam riser in my apartment, claiming that he didn't know what a steam
riser was. Is the landlord required by law to cover the steam risers?
Post your answer Answer: Unfortunately for your guest, I do not think that it is your landlord's responsibility for protecting you (or your guest for that matter) from the steam riser. The steam riser, is in fact the heat source for heating your bathroom. I believe, your landlord is no more responsible for protecting a person from a steam pipe, than he is responsible for you accidentally burning yourself on your stove. I could be wrong on this however, and I would welcome someone to answer this question that might have a stronger understanding of a landlord's responsibility level. William Aristovulos |
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Question #885:
Can anyone tell me what the licensure requirements are to becoming a
super?
Post your answer Answer: Licenses that supers should have: #6 heavy oil burners, sprinkler, standpipe. Those three are the most common and STA now has classes for all three licenses. New York City Administrative Code states that all supers must be certified competent. STA will be giving classes that will be HPD approved for competency soon. Go to our webpage on classes and workshops. Peter Grech, GBOC Answer: Read the Frequently Asked Questions page. |
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Question #884:
I live on the top floor of my co-op building. Isn't it a fire hazard
to leave the roof door open?
Post your answer Answer: NO. In fact it is a fire violation if you LOCK the roof door with any type of lock that prevents access onto the roof. There are ways to lock the roof door from the outside while still leaving it accessible to residents to get onto the roof. Most buildings put an alarm on the door for security (Fire Department-approved type) to announce (ring) when some one opens the door. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #883:
My husband & I are on-site resident managers of an apartment
complex. We show apartments, receive rent money, deal with any tenant issue,
take work orders. In trade for all that we pay no rent. Can we still use
rent for tax deductions even though we pay no rent but they do not pay us
either?
Post your answer Answer: You would need to consult with your accountant on this, but I believe the answer will be no, you have to actually pay rent. Note: by your reasoning, would the landlord then be able to add the cost of the apartment as payment for work done by you and then give you a W2? Don't rock the boat on this. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #882:
I
had my air conditioning EPA license stolen. How do I get another one?
Post your answer
Answer: Get in touch with the person or entity that originally issued your license to find out how to get a copy. Glen Stoltz |
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Question #881:
I rent the top floor apartment in a 6 story pre-war building. When
showering during "peak" hours, the water temperature constantly and
instantly shifts from ice cold to scalding hot. I have received minor burns.
My building super repeatedly tells me that this is "impossible" because no
other tenant complains and we all share the same water. He was been to check
the water himself (at an off-peak time) and so didn't experience the
problem. I can't convince him that this is a real, dangerous problem. I want
an anti-scald device installed but if my super insists there is no problem,
how can I arrange this without violating my lease and assuming the cost
myself?
Post your answer Answer: If your hot water is provided by the building's boiler, this problem might be caused by the boiler's mixing valve. If the temperature of the mixing valve is set too high, the valve will be confused, and the result will be extreme hot and cold water patterns. All your super needs to do in this case is to decrease the temperature on the boiler's mixing valve. SA Answer: Assuming there is a hot water circulating pump in your building, it might need service. A circulating pump in the system, may or may not exist (many buildings the size of yours do not have one). In addition, it is possible the hot, cold and diverter stems in your shower body need to be rebuilt. A loose or deformed washer could result in the problems you are experiencing by moving while the water is flowing, thus causing the temperature fluctuations. It is important that during the rebuilding process, water is "blown" through the open shower body by turning on the supply shut off valves slightly to clear any wayward bits of washer or even "forgotten" stem washer screws, that may also cause the temperature swings. William Aristovulos Answer: Among other advice you may get here, one thing you can do is you can go over the super's head and straight to management. It may or may not work but it's worth a shot, and if the super won't listen and try to help, it may be your only recourse, besides asking other tenants if they have the same problem and if they do to ask them to help you put in a request together. Glen Stoltz |
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Question #880:
When my washing machine drains, the toilet and bathtub fill with water and
won't drain. What is the problem - clogged or frozen pipes, and how do I
fix it?
The washing machine runs fine.
Post your answer
Answer: Problem is you have a stoppage - or part stoppage - in the drain line. Have a qualified person snake out the lines. Washing machines dump a large volume of water at one time, so if the drain is partially clogged it will back up into the lowest / nearest opening, which is the tub in your case. John |
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Question #879:
I have a resident in my building who's claiming that the soot on his walls,
around heating vents, on electrical plates and on plastic fixtures and
containers, is caused by the building. No other apartment has this problem.
The resident burns candles all day long and occasionally incense. I believe
this is where the soot comes from. Has anyone had a similar claim and what
was the outcome.
Post your answer Answer: I have never been in your building but I'll agree that candles and incense do release a lot of soot which can be hazardous to one's health. If you like you can perform a small experiment: light a candle and hold a kitchen knife a few inches over the flame and you will see the soot on the blade of the knife yourself. Roberto Cardona |
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Question #878:
I
am at my wits end. I have a neighbor
whose girlfriend is home all day and runs a washing machine at least 2-3
times a day, and the spin cycle vibrates my entire apartment. This has been
going on 2 years. I work evenings and I like my time off, and my question
is: Are there any code requirements as to insulation, padding, or noise
absorbing material that must be placed under the machine? She does know it
bothers me, is all I'll say here. Thanks for any advice!
Post your answer Answer: Besides other responses you may get here, you may also want to ask your question on the forum at tenant.net to see what kind of response you get. Tenant.net is much more geared to this kind of question. Nope. No code for that issue. However in most leases, washers and dryers are not permitted in apartments. Also you have the right to quiet and enjoyment of your apartment (within reason). Your best step is first bring it to the attention of the super (in writing), if nothing changes, then bring it to the attention of the managing agent (in writing). That should cure the issue. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #877:
Does anyone know the code or law
stating the maximum allowable temperature that water or steam can be drained
at?
Post your answer Answer: Not sure what you mean by temp drained at, however it is code that no water with a temperature of 100 degrees F or higher can be drained or dumped into the city main sewer. This would include condensate from steam. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #876:
What is a plumbing slip?
Post your answer Answer: Internal Pipe Swivel Connection (Female). Same as Slip Joint, 1/2" IPS Faucet, 7/8" IPS Toilet. (Go to Google, enter plumbing slip, find first item from Jackson Mfg. Co., a glossary of plumbing terms). Dick Koral |
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Question #875:
Our building would like to plan
carefully for our super's retirement, making sure we respect his long
service but also getting ready for a replacement. Are there any available
resources to consult?
Post your answer Answer: You may wish to consult with Peter Grech at Grech Building Operations Consulting. He has over 30 years experience as a super and also experience in consulting for management companies, co-op and condo boards as well as individual owners. Glen Stoltz |
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Question #874:
I just moved into a building and the
super was able to get the kitchen upgraded, even though the landlord at
first said no. The super put in a new counter top and floor, put in a
medicine cabinet in the bathroom and a special shower connection. He also
put in some extra cabinets (which we bought) in the kitchen. He also hung
two pictures in the living room. What compensation should I give him for
this. Also, the guy who does the painting painted the apartment a light
cream color instead of plain white. What should I compensate the painter.
Thanks for the info.
Post your answer Answer: This is an impossible situation - you're asking readers to give an opinion on what the work is worth without seeing the space or the work, and you don't even give us the size of the apartment, either in bedrooms/baths or square feet. However, if you put a gun to my head and I HAD to guess, I'd say $300-500 for the labor, and the same amount or more for the painting (depending of course on the size of the space being painted). |
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Question #873:
I live in a 6-floors condo apartment
building in Queens, NY. As one of my two kids has asthma, we cannot install
carpet at home. Our downstairs talent always hit the ceiling, even if we
only dropped something on the floor in the afternoon. I feel very stressed
about this. I would like to know: do I have to install the carpet (there is
a 70% carpet required in the condo regulations) if I have a doctor's letter
to show my son's health problem? Also, is there any regulation protecting
residents from noise-making from downstairs?
Post your answer Answer: You would need to discuss it with your management agent. I would get the letter from the doctor, bring it with you when you talk to the managing agent and see what happens. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #872:
I would like to know if you could tell
me a few schools in New York that offer certificate courses in Building Super. I
would like to become one, where could I begin?
Post your answer Answer: One place to start would be to browse the links on our Continuing Education page, here. Answer: NYC College of Technology, Environmental Control Technology Department, 718-260-5160 for one-year credit certificate in building superintendency. Dick Koral |
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Question #871:
What is the best method of removing
contact paper from walls without leaving a residue?
Post your answer Answer: Steam it off. No matter which way, some residue will be left. But steam is the best way to remove it. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #870:
I am experiencing a high incidence of failure of
kitchen sink 1.5 x 12 in. semi-cast p-traps rusting out in building about 12
years old. Is this the expected life span of these traps?
Post your answer Answer: This is an answer from an industry source: First, I'd like to thank you for inquiring with www.faucetdepot.com for your faucet and fixture needs. They're normally expected to last longer than that. Sounds like something in your water is not reacting properly to the type of material of your p-traps. You may want to go with a more durable metal. Trim by Design model# TBD432 is a suggestion. If you have any further questions, feel free to give us a call at 888-328-2389. Dick Koral |
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Question #869:
Our building wants to begin using B20 fuel and we
are considering using Metro Fuel of
Brooklyn for its competitive prices. We do not know their reputation
for service and their policy is not to give references. Does anyone know if
they are reliable and reasonably priced for boiler service?
Post your answer Answer: |
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Question #868:
Can apartment entry doors be
non-automatic closing, or is that against fire code? The doors themselves
are metal fire doors, but is it okay if they don't automatically close
behind you as you leave?
Post your answer Answer: It is both fire code and housing maintenance code that the front door to an apartment be self closing. (as you say, automatic closing). Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #867:
An apartment owner in the co-op I work
for had combined two apartments recently. When I went in to do some work I
found that the door to the second apartment had been covered with sheetrock
from the inside. I questioned the owner as I felt this might be a
hazard. The owner said the plans were approved by the Department of
Buildings and produced a Letter of Completion. So, can I assume the
buildings department is OK with this?
Post your answer Answer: You answered your own question. If the Buildings Department signs off on it, then it's legal. Just make sure that closing off that door was on the approved plans, and not something that was done AFTER the Building Department signed off on it. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #866:
What could be the cause of black soot
coming out of my home heating oil vents?
Post your answer Answer: Not quite sure what you mean by the heating vent. If soot is seen, this is a sign that your boiler needs cleaning, as well as the burner needs adjustment. Soot is a by-product of burning oil, due to INCOMPLETE (poor) combustion. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #865:
I am the super of a hundred unit complex
and my question is on a steam heating system. My boiler uses about ten
gallons of water per cycle. Is that excessive?
Post your answer
Answer: Yes it is. The boiler is a closed loop system, so every ounce of water converted to steam should return back to the boiler. It is obvious that you have a leak either on the steam side or the return side. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #864:
I live in the Bronx & I don't have a GED yet,
but I'd seriously love to become a superintendent; moreover, I'll like STA
to please help me find a training program that will provide me with
superintendent material.
Post your answer Answer: STA will be starting a Supers Certification Program very soon, in conjunction with HPD. You can get what details we have so far in the January issue of Super!, and look for more information coming out soon - check back on this website and the newsletter often. You'll find a short list of other programs in the City on our Continuing Education page, all of which teach certain skills needed by most supers. Also, since you're in the Bronx, there is at least one free program in that borough where you can learn some skills on boilers and electrical, find info here. Answer: The certification program mentioned above is only for current supers who can demonstrate super skills and thus take a shortcut to certifications. Non-experienced persons will have to take the full courses at HPD. HPD has a great beginner's program for "super-wannabees". However, STA is about to conduct classes for "preparing to take New York Fire Department Certificate of Fitness in Heavy Oil Burners and Standpipe and Sprinklers. These will be of benefit to you. STA will also soon embark on internship and career guidance, but that step is 9 or so months away. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #863:
I am a new member and would like to know if there is
building maintenance software that can help me on my job to keep tenant
records, complaint follow ups, etc.
Post your answer Answer: There is much to choose from. On the low end, QuickBooks by Intuit has (or had) something called Customer Manager, which could be adapted to managing tenant records, complaints, work orders, etc., for a small building. Intuit also has software designed specifically for property management, go to their website to learn about it further. On the high end, you could use a browser-based application like BuildingLink.com, BookingCenter, ResidentDirect, Realeum or Yardi’s Enterprise Voyager. In a wide mid-range of prices and features there are many choices, things called Mr. Landlord, TenantFile, PropertyBoss, RentManager, and many others which may or may not be suitable for your needs. The best thing to do is research several and do a trial run to see what will work for you. Some will allow you to download the software and try it a set number of times for free. Glen Stoltz |
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Question #862:
Does a superintendent pay any bills for his
super position?
Post your answer
Answer: Not exactly sure what you mean by if a super pays for any bills in his position but, most super do not pay for electric, gas, basic cable, garage, uniforms, office phone, cell phone, appliance repair or replacement in the apartment, painting of the apartment. So other than personal items, anything building or apartment related, in most cases the super does not pay for. Peter Grech, GBOC Answer: Some do, many don't. It depends entirely on the situation in question - the number of units, what responsibilities does the super have along with many other variables. Also click here for answers to similar questions. Glen Stoltz |
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Question #861:
I have a question about my
windows. My windows are about 30-40 yrs old and were NEVER installed
properly. They don't close properly or lock at ALL Since the latches don't
line up, there is about a 1-2" gap, so they cannot be locked. Now the
windows don't stay open when opened, and when closed, a breeze comes in.
I asked the landlord about this and he says it would be a capital
improvement to fix them. I said they were never installed right in the first
place, they don't lock at all (a safety issue), or stay open at all, which
someone told me is a fire hazard as well. What is the deal, is the landlord
responsible for replacing them or would I be responsible for some of the
cost? The other BIG part that worries me is, I have seen the type of work
done by the people he hires, and I do NOT want those people doing any work
on my apartment. Since it is all substandard work done by unlicensed,
illegal workers, and also he never gets building permits for work he has
done. Last time when his "workers" painted the stairway, they didn't clean,
sweep or dust at all, just painted over big clumps of dirt and anything that
was in the way. A 12 year old could have done a 100% better job - not an
exaggeration. MY sink & counter were replaced 2 years ago, needs to be
replaced again since they did not seal it properly and the counter has
rotted out. This is what I am afraid of for my windows. Help!
Post your answer Answer: Although probably all readers may have an opinion about your situation, and some of us more than one, what we THINK doesn't really matter. These kinds of landlords are almost impossible to work with, and your only recourse may be a complaint (or many) to HPD or other city agency, or housing court. Call 311 to find out which agency you should start with. Some landlords respond appropriately to a threatening letter from a lawyer. You also might want to ask your question on the forum at tenant.net. Many very experienced and knowledgeable (and quite opinionated) types read this forum and give their ideas and opinions based on past experiences in and out of court, hearsay, knowledge of the law, and other criteria. Glen Stoltz |
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Question #860:
A superintendent in New York is thinking of
accepting a superintendent position in New Jersey. He was told his low
pressure boiler license from FDNY in New York is no good in New Jersey.
Does anyone know who in NJ to contact about getting a boiler license in
their state?
Post your answer Answer: Read the questions and answers on our Licenses, Exams, Certificates of Fitness page to find the answer you're looking for. |
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Question #859:
I moved into an apartment 4 months ago and
recently had a clogged sink and called the landlord, and he told me that I
had to call a plumber and have the problem repaired at my cost. He states
that it is in my lease to pay for maintenance for the sinks, toilet and tub
if anything occurs. I was told by a friend that I don't have to pay for it
that it is the landlord's problem. Who do I believe?
Post your answer Answer: Neither, necessarily. You should read and go by what is contained in your lease. If you didn't read it before you signed it, you certainly should have, but read it now. The answers to all of these types of questions should be spelled out there, and you and the landlord will have to abide by the terms of the lease unless you both agree to renegotiate. As always when it comes to matters of the law, don't take our word for any of this, we are NOT attorneys. Please be smart and consult one. Glen Stoltz |
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Question #858:
Are there architectural or other coatings which, when
applied to wood beams in an apartment, would make those beams fire resistant
to conform with the New York City building codes, as opposed to covering
such a beam with sheetrock?
Post your answer Answer: Yes there are coatings which can make wood beams fire resistant. Whether or not using them helps to conform specifically to New York City building codes isn't readily clear from this particular website, but you can start at www.albi.com to get more info. Google "fireproof architectural coating" for other websites. Glen Stoltz |
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Question #857:
Our apartment building is installing new wall
plates / switch plates that are insulated on the back and include attached
child safety plugs. Does this meet electrical and fire safety code?
Post your answer Answer: It's not really clear what your concern is about. If you are referring to the potential flammability of the insulating material on the plates, then all one has to do is check for a UL certification stamp on the item itself or the packaging it comes in. This would certainly give it a clean bill of approval, as far as fire code. William Aristovulos |
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Question #856:
I presently have my RMR-Q99 operating Engineer,
P-99, & many other licenses and am working in the field. Looking for a
school that offers HIGH PRESSURE Licenses in NYC - is there at least one?
Post your answer Answer: Check on BoilerRoom.com and HeatingHelp.com, for starters and Google "high pressure steam class" or similar. |
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Question #855:
When a resident above runs the
water, the resident below gets a very loud hissing / squealing / pressure
related noise from the pipes. Is something wrong with the pressure of the
water that is causing this? Is there anything that can be done to correct
it?
Post your answer Answer: Most of the time this noise results from a loose washer in one or more of the sink or tub faucets. This is the least expensive and should be checked first. If it is not the washers, then it can be that the pipes are so loose that they vibrate with the pressure when the faucets are open. This problem is not so easy to remedy. Call a plumber to see what his opinion is after the washers have been replaced. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #854:
I know I can get yesterday's degree day from a
newspaper but I don't get papers often. At what website can I find degree
days for the past day, and if possible for the month or even longer.
Post your answer Answer: You can get degree day information for dates going back to at least 1994 at EnergyCap.com, among others. Google "degree day data" and you'll be surprised and amazed at the extent of the information that is available. |
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Question #853: I was in the union a few years ago and
no one told me until after the building was sold that the contract was
not signed. I have not gotten a raise in 4 years, no bonus, no
Christmas or vacation pay. If anyone knows what I should do please let
me know. Also please let me know what a superintendent's average pay
might be for a part-time super.
Post your answer
Answer: Y ou need to talk to the union and see what your options are and what the union position is. You should also ask the new building owner what is going on, and for a raise and vacation pay. Not sure which one you should do first. Which ever you do, be prepared for the worst, you never know what the landlord has in mind. Last option is to just sit and take it, and look for another job. Three options with no win-win situation. Peter Grech, GBOC |
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Question #852:
Can someone give me their opinion on the best lumber
yard / building supplies outfit that delivers in New York City. My criteria
are price, ease of ordering, well-stocked and reasonable delivery fees.
Post your answer Answer: Price is the hardest part. You will always pay a little more in Manhattan. The lumber yards all seem to be competitive on price. Try Dykes Lumber at 348 W. 44 St., and Metropolitan Lumber with several locations in Manhattan and Queens. Peter Grech, GBOCAnswer: When searching for flooring also consider Lumber Liquidators in Manhattan at 30 E. 18th Street (Union Square). Keith Williams |
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Question #851: I live on the first floor of a 12 unit
apartment building. I hear EVERYTHING in the apartment above me. Are they
required to have carpeting?
Post your answer Answer: 99% yes. Whether it is a co-op, condo or rental, most likely the governing lease would have that 80% of the apartment must be carpeted. Check your own lease and see if that clause is there. Then write a letter to management. John G |
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Question #850:
Trying to get any info to obtain a boilers / black
seal and air pollution control license for New York and New Jersey for my boyfriend who is
trying to get a job at the NYC Board of Ed. He needs to obtain it within as
little time as possible. Any contact information would be greatly
appreciated.
Post your answer Answer: Read answers to similar questions here. |
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