Special Trade Services

08/12/2026

3 NYC DOB Changes Effective August 17

🚨 NYC DOB FILING CHANGES TAKE EFFECT AUGUST 17

Contractors, property owners, architects, and filing professionals should be aware of three important changes coming to DOB NOW:

1️⃣ Builder’s Pavement Plans
All new Builder’s Pavement Plan applications must be filed through DOB NOW: Build. New BPP filings will no longer be accepted through BIS.

2️⃣ Wetland and Coastal-Erosion Properties
Certain filings on properties flagged for tidal wetlands, freshwater wetlands, or coastal-erosion hazards will require a DEC Jurisdictional Determination before DOB approval. If DEC determines that a permit is required, that permit must also be submitted.

3️⃣ Sidewalk-Shed Renewals
Applicable sidewalk-shed renewals will require a progress report from a Registered Design Professional and a new $90 progress-report fee. Combined with the $130 renewal fee, the total will be $220.

The new progress-report requirement does not apply to sheds associated with one- or two-family homes or sheds installed for permitted new-building, enlargement, or demolition work.

These changes could affect filing requirements, project timelines, and costs. Review the property and project requirements before submitting your next application.

Save this post and share it with someone working on NYC construction projects.

08/10/2026

A job may not need a permit—but that doesn’t automatically mean you don’t need a contractor license. 🔨

In New York City, permits and contractor licenses serve different purposes.

Certain minor improvements may not require a DOB work permit. However, a contractor performing residential home-improvement work may still need a Home Improvement Contractor License from the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection.

Before bidding on a project, confirm:

✅ Whether the work requires a permit
✅ Which contractor license or registration applies
✅ Whether your business documents and insurance are ready
✅ Whether an additional registration is required for the project

Getting these answers before signing the contract can help prevent avoidable problems once the job begins.

Planning to perform residential work in NYC? Complete the STS Contractor Assessment before you bid.

08/10/2026

🚀 COMING SOON: Meet App Tracker—our very own cutting-edge application built by Special Trade Services.

App Tracker is designed to turbocharge how we process contractor license, registration, permit, and compliance applications—while giving our clients a clearer view of the entire process.

With App Tracker, clients will be able to:

✅ Monitor application progress
✅ Upload and organize documents
✅ Review outstanding requirements
✅ Receive status updates
✅ Communicate with the STS team
✅ Access important licenses and records in one place

No more wondering what was submitted, what is still needed, or where your application stands.

This is more than new software. It’s the next step in the STS experience—combining knowledgeable professionals with technology built specifically around the needs of our clients.

App Tracker is coming soon to iOS, Android, and the web.

Follow Special Trade Services for launch updates.

07/31/2026

Workers’ compensation may be the most misunderstood policy in a contractor’s insurance program. It protects your workers, supports licenses and contracts, and can expose your business to steep audit bills and legal penalties when mishandled. Our new guide explains coverage, NYSIF, audits, contractor costs, and practical ways to stay compliant.

Workers’ compensation is more than another insurance certificate. Learn who must be covered, what New York requires, how audits work, what coverage can cost, and why cancellations or missing records can become extremely expensive.

07/31/2026

Your contracting business may be capable of serving a much larger market than your current licenses allow.

Across Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, and Connecticut, homeowners are adding dormers, building extensions, renovating older properties, and replacing homes entirely. The construction is visible, and these suburban opportunities deserve serious attention.

But an NYC contractor license does not give you permission to work everywhere.

Our latest Contractor Resource explains why NYC contractors should consider getting licensed outside the five boroughs—and how to turn a new territory into a real source of business.

Do not wait for the perfect lead to start the application. Nassau County can take several months, while Suffolk commonly takes about two months. Preparing now means your company can say yes when the opportunity arrives.

Remodeling opportunities extend far beyond NYC—but some licenses take months. Learn why contractors should get licensed in surrounding markets before the next customer or project is ready.

07/31/2026

Your general liability certificate may show $1 million in coverage—but will the policy respond if an employee is injured and the building owner brings the claim back against your company?

Our latest Contractor Resource explains Action Over coverage, what affects the cost, how contractors qualify, and the real difference between a hard hammer, soft hammer, and no hammer policy.

The right insurance program should do more than protect your current work. It should help your company qualify for bigger opportunities.

Action Over coverage can protect New York contractors from devastating employee-injury claims while helping them qualify for larger projects. Learn what the coverage costs, how to qualify, where it appears in construction contracts, and the difference between hard, soft, and no hammer policies.

11/15/2025

Avoid costly project delays with the right licenses and permits in place.

Without proper licensing, your work can be stopped, fined, or worse—your tools and equipment could be confiscated. Plus, no license means no legal claim if a client refuses to pay.

At Special Trade Services, we simplify the process so you get licensed fast and stay compliant. Our experts handle everything from contractor licensing to permit expediting—especially in NYC—to keep your projects moving on schedule.

Don't let paperwork hold you back. Build your business with confidence and focus on what you do best: delivering quality work.

Contact us today to get started and avoid delays before they start.

11/13/2025

Navigating contractor licensing doesn't have to be overwhelming.

We simplify the process so you can get licensed quickly and start building with confidence.

Need help cutting through the red tape? Reach out today and let us handle the details while you focus on your projects.

11/12/2025

Starting an LLC in the construction industry doesn't have to be complicated.

Here's a clear, step-by-step process to get your LLC up and running smoothly:

1. Choose a unique business name that complies with your state's rules.
2. Appoint a registered agent to receive legal documents.
3. File Articles of Organization with your Secretary of State.
4. Create an operating agreement outlining your LLC's structure and management.
5. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.
6. Apply for necessary contractor licenses and permits in your state.
7. Secure insurance and bonding to protect your business and meet compliance.
8. Register for state taxes and workers' compensation as required.

Each step is crucial to protect your assets and ensure you can legally operate and win contracts.

At Special Trade Services, we specialize in guiding construction professionals through this exact process—making it faster and less stressful. Our team handles filings, licenses, insurance, and bonding all under one roof.

Build your business with confidence. Don't let paperwork slow you down. Reach out today and let us simplify your LLC formation and compliance process.

11/11/2025

🔥 BLACK FRIDAY: 50% Off Licensing - Expand Beyond NYC Before Nov 30th -

The NYC market may have been your foundation, but why limit yourself to one territory when incredible opportunities are waiting just beyond the city limits?