Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, if you live in New York City there’s a high chance your home will be in a multi-unit property. And when it comes to moving in and moving out, every building has its own set of permissions and rules.

According to the 2023 New York City Vacancy and Housing Survey, 73% of housing in New York City is in buildings with three or more units. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that 48% of NYC housing is in buildings with 20 or more units. The high concentration of people living within a single city block makes for densely populated streets and neighborhoods.

It’s up to property management to minimize disruption and maximize safety for residents, both in and around the building.

Common Building Rules Related to Moving

With the city's busy pace and infrastructure, adhering to building moving protocols is key for both residents and building management. Proper planning and coordination will ensure your move is completed safely and efficiently.

Here are some common factors that are governed by rules and regulations when moving residence in or out of a building in NYC:

• Designated Moving Days and Times
• Elevator Usage
• Parking and Loading
• Noise Considerations
• Waste Disposal Rules
• Certificate of Insurance

Designated Moving Days and Times

Some buildings have designated move-in and move-out days. Larger properties in particular cater to hundreds of residents coming and going to their work, school, and appointments. Part of the leasing office or management’s role is to provide for efficient use of building facilities so people can move on with their day.

Limiting available moving times means the building management can ensure elevators and common areas remain accessible during peak times. Many properties don’t allow moving to take place during evenings and weekends.

Elevator usage

The process of loading boxes and furniture in and out of elevators can be disruptive to other residents. Trying to fit oversized and heavy objects into the small space of an elevator is challenging. Having someone load their belongings into an elevator can be noisy, can impact elevator availability, and - especially for a DIY move - can risk potential damage and longer delays.

Building management and leasing offices usually have clear rules when it comes to elevator usage for your home move. Aside from the time restrictions, there may be a usage fee, an elevator padding requirement, size and weight restrictions, and adequate time may be needed to give other residents notice. Some buildings may impose a fine if the move time exceeds the time allotted by management. If your building doesn't have an elevator, there are different rules for that.

Parking and Loading

In addition to New York’s already stringent street parking and parking permit rules, movers may be subject to limitations from the building. If the property has a designated loading dock, you’ll need to work with building management to secure a window during which your moving vehicle can park.

When loading and unloading belongings there is a chance that something may drop or be scraped along a wall. Some buildings will impose fines for damage to walls or floors in public and common areas.

Noise Considerations

As a crowded and congested city, New York has strict noise regulations. Moving furniture and boxes can be noisy, especially when heavier items are being dragged or set down. Professional movers are experienced in proper handling of oversized and heavy items in particular, whereas do-it-yourself movers may drop or scrape furniture and large items.

This noise can disrupt neighbors who may be sensitive to disturbances, especially during off-peak times such as early mornings or late evenings.

Waste Disposal Rules

Moving inevitably creates items that need to be discarded, whether from decluttering old belongings or post-move packing materials. To avoid fines and penalties, it’s important to be aware of NYC’s waste disposal regulations, such as separating recyclables and responsibly disposing of large items.

Certificate of Insurance

It’s common practice for properties to require moving companies to provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) before allowing them to perform moving services on the premises. The COI serves as proof that the moving company has the proper insurance coverage against potential liabilities and damages during the move. By requiring moving companies to provide a Certificate of Insurance, building management can make sure that the move is conducted safely and responsibly.

Tips For Working With Your Building Management or Leasing Office

When it comes to residents moving in and out of a building, the management office has two concerns:

• Potential accidents, injuries, property damage, or wear and tear caused by the moving process
• Disruption to current residents unable to work or relax at home due to noise and congestion from moving activities.

To ensure your move goes as seamlessly as possible, it is worth taking the time to properly plan and communicate with the lease office or building management team by:

• Giving plenty of notice to the building management of your upcoming move
• Checking the building regulations with the leasing office or management company
• Hiring a reputable moving company that has experience with handling building moves
• Scheduling your moving time with the building management, including elevator and loading spaces
• Checking elevator capacity for weight and size limits
• Confirming parking and loading access and securing the necessary permits and permissions in advance
• Planning and organizing your belongings by decluttering, determining load order, and labeling boxes
• Protecting common areas during your move with protective floor and wall coverings as needed
• Disposing of trash responsibly when packing and unpacking
• Cleaning up any messes and debris left during the moving process.

Key Takeaways About Rules for Moving in and Out of Buildings in NYC

Navigating building permissions when moving home in NYC requires careful planning, coordination, and communication with the leasing office or property management company.

By giving notice in advance, scheduling elevator usage, adhering to designated move-in/move-out days, and following our tips, residents can ensure a smooth transition while minimizing disruption to their building community. Effective communication and cooperation throughout the process will go a long way to ensuring everything goes well.

Ready for that move?

Contact Capital City Movers Today for a FREE QUOTE at (718) 619-4881 and visit our website for more information.