Philadelphia - Multi-Family Triplex by right ***Basement unit

[James Brand]

Hey BP,

Hoping to hear from anyone who has ever converted a RM1 zoned property into a triplex, specifically utilizing the basement level as a unit. My concern is that I have heard that L&I can be tough on allowing basement bedrooms with variances these days but as for something that is allowed by right I am not sure. Wondering if anyone has had any experience with this as of late.

Thanks!

J

[Ethan Giller]

I would have said to ask @Troy Sheets ;-)

We have a lot of multi-families in Philly but for the most part we don't do anything with finished basements, and we mostly buy existing layouts and upgrade them instead of doing new layouts. So I'm not sure, I would check with your architect and zoning attorney to see what's allowed by right. And if you're trying for a variance, I would have a backup plan in place if you don't get it, I do agree that it's tough to get from what I've heard.