Frequently Asked Questions
How does a building owner notify OGS of a building Available for lease, including information such as available square footage and rental rates?
Building owners are advised to periodically submit property offerings and pictures of any buildings they consider suitable for state occupancy to:
OGS Real Estate Services, 40th Floor, Corning Tower, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12242
This information once received, is provided to leasing agents assigned to the geographical area of the state and included in a computerized data bank of potential sites to lease.
How does a building owner know when OGS is looking for leased space in a particular city?
Depending on the timeframe in which space is needed, OGS will identify possible sites through any or all of the following sources:
- A database search of owner-submitted property offerings.
- A notice in the New York State Contract Reporter
- An ad in a local newspaper
- An on-location survey of the area
- Space-wanted notices on the OGS website
Does OGS lease space for all state agencies?
OGS leases space for all Executive Branch agencies with the exception of the Division of State Police, SUNY, and patient program units of the Department of Mental Hygiene.
How does OGS choose which building to lease?
OGS will generally lease the site with the lowest cost that meets the needs of the client agency. However, as real estate is unique, other factors such as location, turnkey construction, parking, and agency requirements are also considered.
How long a lease term can a building owner expect?
The length of the lease is dependent upon the projected longevity of the requirement. OGS leases are typically a two- to a ten-year term.
Does the state do its own renovations in leased buildings?
No. State leases are normally one on a turnkey basis. The building owner is expected to provide architectural drawings based on a layout drawn by OGS, obtain all permits, and construct the premises to OGS building specifications for leased facilities.
If a building owner is renovating their building for the state, are the materials tax exempt?
No. As the owner is improving their own building, materials used for the project are not tax exempt.
Does the state pay a deposit to hold the space or issue a letter of intent while a lease is being processed?
No. The state cannot make a legally binding commitment to leased space without the approval of the Office of the State Comptroller (OSC). OSC will review and approve a proposed lease only after the lease document is fully developed and approved by the tenant agency, the landlord, OGS, the Division of the Budget, and the Attorney General.