A Conversation with Former NYC Buildings Commissioner Rick Chandler

Former NYC Buildings Commissioner Rick Chandler shares his perspective on how building departments work and what builders can do to navigate them more effectively.

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Few people understand the inner workings of a building department better than Rick Chandler. As the former Commissioner of the NYC Department of Buildings, Chandler oversaw the regulation and promotion of safe and lawful use of nearly 1.1 million buildings and properties across the five boroughs of New York City.

In this episode of Permission to Build, Rick sits down with Pulley to share his unique perspective on the permitting process—from the other side of the counter. The conversation offers a rare, insider look at how building departments actually process applications, what causes delays, and what applicants can do to improve their outcomes.

Rick discusses the challenges that building departments face: limited staff, increasing workloads, evolving building codes, and the constant pressure to balance speed with public safety. He explains why some permit applications sail through review while others get stuck in cycles of corrections and resubmittals.

The conversation covers the role of technology in modernizing building departments. Rick shares his views on how digital submissions, automated plan review, and better data systems could transform the way building departments operate—making the process faster and more transparent for both applicants and reviewers.

One of the most valuable parts of the discussion is Rick’s advice for builders and developers. He emphasizes the importance of complete, well-organized submissions; understanding the specific requirements of the jurisdiction you’re working in; and building professional relationships with plan reviewers and inspectors.

Rick also reflects on his career journey, from his early days in the department to leading one of the largest and most complex building regulatory agencies in the world. His perspective is invaluable for anyone trying to understand why the permitting process works the way it does—and how it might evolve in the future.

For builders, developers, architects, and anyone who interacts with building departments, this conversation is essential viewing.