What Is an Energy Review in NYC DOB?

If you’re planning a construction or renovation project in New York City, you may be required to complete an Energy Review as part of the NYC Department of Buildings (DOB) permit process. This requirement often causes confusion but it’s a critical step that can delay or stop a project if handled incorrectly.

Below, we break down what an Energy Review is, when it’s required, who prepares it, and why it matters for NYC construction projects.

What Is an Energy Review?

An Energy Review is a DOB review that ensures your project complies with the NYC Energy Conservation Code (NYCECC). This code sets minimum energy-efficiency standards for buildings throughout the city.

The purpose of the Energy Review is to confirm that your project meets requirements related to:

• Energy efficiency
• Insulation and thermal performance
• HVAC and mechanical systems
• Lighting and electrical systems
• Hot water systems

Simply put, the DOB wants to make sure buildings are designed and built to reduce energy waste and meet NYC sustainability goals.

When Is an Energy Review Required?

An Energy Review is required for most construction projects that affect energy use, including:

New building construction

Building enlargements or additions

Alterations that impact:

• Exterior walls, roofs, or windows
• Heating, cooling, or ventilation systems
• Electrical or lighting systems
• Domestic hot water systems

Even interior renovations may require an Energy Review if any energy-related components are modified.

Common Projects That Require Energy Review

• Home additions and major renovations
• Apartment renovations
• Commercial build-outs
• Mixed-use developments
• Multi-family building upgrades
• Minor cosmetic work (such as painting or flooring) may be exempt, but exemptions must be clearly justified in the DOB filing.

Who Prepares the Energy Review?

• An Energy Review must be prepared and submitted by a Registered Design Professional (RDP), such as:
• A New York–licensed architect, or
• A New York–licensed professional engineer
• The RDP analyzes the construction plans and completes the required energy analysis forms, which are submitted to the DOB along with the permit application.

Depending on the filing type, the Energy Review may be reviewed directly by the DOB or submitted under Professional Certification.

What Does the DOB Review?

• During the Energy Review, the DOB checks plans for compliance with the NYC Energy Code, including:
• Building Envelope
• Required insulation values
• Window and door performance
• Air sealing and thermal barriers
• Mechanical Systems
• HVAC equipment efficiency
• Duct insulation and sealing
• Electrical and Lighting
• Lighting power density limits
• Energy-efficient fixtures
• Automatic lighting controls
• Hot Water Systems
• Water heater efficiency
• Pipe insulation
• Required controls
• If any of these elements do not meet code, the DOB will issue energy objections, which must be resolved before permits are approved.

Why Is the Energy Review So Important?

• Required for Permit Approval
• A project cannot receive a DOB permit without an approved Energy Review.
• Prevents Delays and Redesigns
• Missing or incorrect energy documentation often leads to objections, revisions, and costly delays.

Saves Money Long-Term

Energy-compliant buildings typically:

• Use less electricity and fuel
• Have lower utility costs
• Perform better over time

Ensures Legal Compliance

Failure to comply with the Energy Code can result in:

• Failed DOB inspections
• Fines and violations
• Required corrections after construction is complete

Common Energy Review Mistakes

Some of the most common issues we see include:

• Incomplete or incorrect energy analysis forms
• Conflicts between architectural, mechanical, and electrical plans
• Using outdated energy code requirements
• Assuming small projects don’t need an Energy Review

These mistakes are avoidable when your team understands NYC DOB procedures and energy code requirements.

How We Help Clients Stay Energy-Code Compliant

As an experienced NYC construction company, we:

• Coordinate closely with architects and engineers
• Review plans for energy compliance before DOB submission
• Address DOB energy objections quickly
• Ensure energy requirements are followed during construction

Our goal is to keep your project compliant, on schedule, and free of surprises.



Final Thoughts

An Energy Review is more than a formality it’s a mandatory and essential part of the NYC construction approval process. Understanding this requirement early can save time, money, and frustration.

If you’re planning a construction or renovation project and are unsure whether an Energy Review is required, speaking with a contractor experienced in NYC DOB filings is the best first step.